Starbucks Cavendish Square — Restaurant in Claremont

Traumatizing Experience at Starbucks Claremont, Cape Town – Staff Harassment, Discrimination & Property Theft

I had a deeply disturbing experience yesterday at the Starbucks located in Claremont, Cape Town, and I feel obligated to share what happened.

I was quietly sitting in the store, working on my laptop while waiting for my friends to arrive so we could order something to eat together. I wasn’t connected to the Wi-Fi or causing any disturbance – just minding my own business.

That’s when a staff member named Ferdinand approached me and rudely told me I couldn’t sit in the store without buying anything. I calmly explained that I was waiting for my friends and that we’d be ordering shortly. Her attitude was hostile from the beginning.

About 25 minutes later, Ferdinand came back, even more aggressive, and demanded that we leave. She was loud, threatening, and extremely disrespectful. I felt completely humiliated. Wanting to protect myself and document the incident, I pulled out my phone to record – and that’s when things escalated even further.

Ferdinand SNATCHED my phone out of my hand and stormed into the back storage area with it, continuing to shout horrible things at me. I was left standing there in shock – my personal property forcibly taken, and I had no way to retrieve it. I couldn’t follow her into the staff-only area, and I was terrified about what she might do with my phone.

Then, to make matters worse, they called security on us, falsely accusing us of being the problem. I have to ask: Is this the standard of customer service Starbucks supports? Or was this racially motivated harassment?

Not only do I deserve an apology, but Starbucks needs to take full responsibility for the damage caused to my phone and the emotional distress I went through. I expect to be contacted and told how Starbucks intends to make this right – including whether they will pay for any damage caused to my phone due to their staff’s aggressive behavior.

This kind of abuse should never happen in a place that claims to be inclusive and welcoming. Shame on this location and shame on Ferdinand for how...

Been here twice. First experience was terrible. The store had very few customers. The guy took my order and proceeded to stand and chat to his colleague at the store entrance. I was so confused. After a long wait they made it. Said they did not know I ordered. Seriously, their service was terrible. Second time even worse. The store was fuller, but still hardly any customers. I ordered and stood waiting. Again, it took ages. I noticed customers getting their drinks before me who ordered after me. I spoke up and the lady barista gave a poor excuse and made mine immediately after. Also, that iced cappuccino with cold foam tasted like cheap coffee and was a waste of money. Would not recommend this Starbucks, and would never return. On a side note, I was surprised to see a halal...

Quick and efficient service from the staff. Counter staff very helpful and patient.

Internet is 100/100 line so great for working over WIFI Don't forget to use VPN as it is open/public WIFI

You are able to see the menu via QR code when in the line Those who has bookings in advance gets preference.

Decent prices but still 2nd to bootlegger or Damascus road in Stellenbosch.

Frappuccino's over coffee would be my suggestion, and for summer please try ice teas they are very nice.

Coffee bean flavors should be adjusted for SA palette as we are accustomed to artisanal coffee.

Will not go back just due to the other customer's attitude not wanting to share seating and holding up table of 4 or 5...