Starbucks – The McDonalds of Coffee
It used to be that Starbucks was a special place. A fun upscale social venue begging for warm conversations, smiles, and laughter. It USED to be that baristas knew their art and took pride in every glass of golden happiness they produced. Unfortunately, just as the luster of the first McDonald’s hamburger has long since faded, so too is the image of the Starbucks coffee cup becoming more of a symbol of the way things used to be… the good ol’ days of fast and friendly service.
Now it seems, like every fast food restaurant, the service is more focused on helping the employee get through their day, than helping you get through yours. First I noticed and ignored baristas talking amongst themselves. Then I tried to ignore the conversations about the negative features of each patron as they passed by the counter.
The last straw? Now at two of my local Starbucks, there are ‘Get Rich Quick’ meetings. They all get waters and a scone to share between 20 people and move all the tables. Then for 30 minutes I HOPE that my earphones drown out the sound of deceit and lies.
So what’s the real problem? I can’t avoid the place. In Cedar Rapids, there are no better coffee places. It’s sad because there are a few local spots, but their coffee doesn’t come close to being brewed properly. How I miss the days of Terrapin and Java House during work. Alas, this is my plight. I suppose it’s not that bad. After all, it could be office coffee.
