Starbucks

I am pleased to admit that I haven’t been into a Starbucks since I was last in Seattle. I get my coffee at my favorite restaurant for $1.30 and it comes in a mug and is refillable for free for as long as I sit there.

Last week I was asked to meet an acquaintance to discuss converting his notes (and doing some additional research) on a local automotive racing legend into a form that was fit for publication. He suggested we meet at a Starbucks across from where he worked and I acquiesced. I ordered a “coffee” and after looking confused the clerk barista asked me if I wanted to save room for cream. I replied no, just a small cup of coffee. She breathlessly said that it was brewing and would be ready in a couple of minutes and took my name and my $2.09. I wondered why she needed my name. Three minutes later I found out, I had to return to the counter to get it. I guess at Starbucks the clerks baristas are not waitresses. To made a long story short the coffee (and I use that term very loosely) tasted like Liquid Smoke with just a small hint of ash. One sip and I was done, no wonder that they have to put all the other stuff in the cup to make it drinkable. Sorry Starbucks but an endless cup of $1.30 coffee at the Pantry has you beat hands down.