Starbucks Reserve SM Podium — Restaurant in Mandaluyong

This is called Starbucks Reserved for a reason. It is more aesthetically pleasing than your typical SB branch. Words will not describe alone nor give it justice so better let the photos, or better yet, your eyes be the better judge when you drop in for a visit.

They have bar seating as well as window seating arrangements. While this is nice, there are no power outlets available at these places so your only option is the seats against the left wall when you enter. And these seats are often times taken by other digital nomads.

The drink prices are the same as regular SB stores.

But, for an SB stores to be labeled as reserve, I feel like their service is lacking. I ordered thru their app and when it said it was ready, I stood at the claims area for a bit and the barista just kept ignoring me. So I cut him some slack. But then those that just came in later were getting served earlier so I had to call him out and that's the only he tended to me (he doesn't look happy) and I showed him my order. Turned out my drink had already been made minutes prior but he should've given me some attention to claim it.

Secondly, the place is a bit warm unlike other typical SBs. Third, you have to ask explicitly for a tissues unlike other SBs.

Also note this is the 2nd busiest SB I've been too. The busiest for me is the regular Starbucks at Tektite Towers. And yet, SB Tektite has better staffs/baristas...

Fantastic customer service from all their baristas! Very friendly and accomodating, consistent quality and relaxing atmosphere, a great place to frequent and hang out. The Reserve bar baristas are very knowledgeable about the specialty coffee, they'll share fun facts with you especially during lean hours. Among the coffee masters that have helped me appreciate every cup of coffee are Aaron, Ken, LJ, Alex, Cha, Camille and Tian. With a litany of facts and recommendations- lots of upselling, is Aaron, the liveliest and the barista with the best memory of his regular customers' preferences! Ken is the most consistent when making a cuppa; LJ is that stoic force that keeps the shift running smoothly; Alex has that winning charm that keeps you coming back; Cha is the responsible ate among the kids while Camille is that kooky ate who exudes passion for coffee! All the baristas mentioned above and those I may have missed have made every visit fun and memorable, and have really made me appreciate and understand the brand much more that before. It's the people that make the branch successful, keep it up Starbucks Podium Extension Wing branch!!

Aside from the people, I also have to mention the gorgeous interiors- lots of wood accents lend a very cozy feel to the store, the high ceiling makes the space...

Chai Chocolate Cream Frappucino (creation) I wanted something different for a change and since I learned about the Hot Chai Chocolate idea, I tried ordering a Chai Cream Frappuccino with added Chocolate Syrup. This Frappuccino isn't a regular menu item but it's always available. The hot version is much more relaxing but both offer the same experience of strong chai with a hint of chocolate. At my next visit, I'll see if they can also create a Chocolate Cream Frappuccino with added Chai Syrup. :p

Sticky Cinnamon Bun I didn't consume it this time but I advised my friend that it was a heavy bun and she still ordered it. Haha! She kinda slowed down midway. :) The top is the BEST part!

Salmon Dill on Multi-Grain Bread This is so much better when heated! My mistake was leaving it on the plate too long. That's how strong the air-conditioning can be. This is one sandwich I can always order over and over again like the...