I went to Starbucks to use the restroom. Of course, I ordered a cup of americano to stay the store. But I didn't get a receipt. They did not informed me that I need a receipt to use the toilet free. I went to the bathroom in the basement before the drink came out, and a blond woman required me to pay 50 cents. I wanted to ask if I should pay for it even though I bought a cup of coffee, but when I tried to say anything, she stopped me saying and gestured me to pay or go up. I had to pay to use the restroom. I know for sure, after the racism against black man in America in 2018, all Starbucks visitors have free access to the restroom, the fact that visitors don't have to buy a drink. However, I had to pay to use the restroom even though I had purchased the drink. I asked the staff if I had to pay to use the restroom, and they only gave me another customer's receipt.
Of course, 50 cents is a very minor amount. However, I wanted to talk to the woman because she was very rude and I knew they were violating your HQ policy. When I got back to her with the receipt, she was on the private phone during working hours. I waited over 20 minutes for her to end. Waiting for her phone call ended, I politely asked, "Can I talk to you for a moment" and "I have a question," but she just pointed her finger at the bathroom or held it to her lips to make me quiet. She was still rude. I was so angry at her and gave up talking to her, saying "You should know that you are being rude", as soon as I said that she finally turned around and stared at me.
I have two question to Starbucks HQ. First, I understand well that Germany respects workers' rights, but does that include having private calls while on the job for a very long time? Second, it is European culture that people have to pay to use the restroom, but is their culture above the guidelines of the HQ in the U.S.? Even Starbucks is an...
Read moreVisiting the Starbucks near Brandenburg Tor was a great experience for me. The location couldn’t be more perfect—right next to one of the most iconic landmarks in Berlin. It felt amazing to sip my coffee while looking out at the Brandenburg Gate through the large windows.
The building itself is really nice, blending modern Starbucks style with a touch of Berlin’s charm. Inside, the atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with plenty of seating to relax after exploring the area. It was a bit busy, as expected for such a prime spot, but the staff handled it well. They were quick, efficient, and very friendly, which made the experience even better.
As for the coffee, it was exactly what I expected from Starbucks—consistently good. I ordered my favorite drink and paired it with a pastry, and both were great. What I enjoyed most was just sitting there, soaking in the energy of the area and watching people come and go.
If you’re visiting Berlin and find yourself near Brandenburg Tor, I definitely recommend stopping here. It’s a great place to relax, recharge, and enjoy the view of one of Germany’s most...
Read moreThe location of this Starbucks is perfect, just a few steps away from the Brandenburg Gate. Unfortunately, that’s where the positives end, as I was very disappointed with the toilets. They are not free, even for customers, and cost 50 cents to use. There is a security person at the entrance collecting money.
The toilet is also not disabled-friendly, requiring you to go down a significant number of steps. Inside, it was unpleasant, with messages scratched into the mirrors, walls covered in marker pen graffiti, and stickers everywhere. It would be more acceptable if the toilets were free, but since there is a charge, you would expect a certain standard of cleanliness and...
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