Costa Kingston Road — Restaurant in London

Yesterday afternoon at around 3 o'clock, I inexplicably experienced racial discrimination from the store staff. As my English is not fluent, I initially asked a female staff member about Costa's membership card, but she did not assist me and directed me to the front desk. Upon approaching the front desk, the staff there immediately told me, "He's here." I acknowledged and continued to ask my question. However, he claimed not to understand, so I sat at a table. Another staff member approached, stating that I needed to purchase coffee to sit there. I agreed, explaining that I was waiting for a friend who could help me inquire further. Shortly after, the staff approached twice more insisting I buy coffee. I assured them of my intention to purchase and noted the presence of other customers. I also promised to order once my friend arrived. At this point, a male staff member accused me of being rude. I felt discriminated against, as I hadn't said anything to provoke such a reaction. I asked about the café's rules, highlighting that I hadn't used the restroom, disturbed others, and was simply waiting for my friend. The staff's rejection escalated, with threats to involve the police. I agreed to wait, but they insisted I leave. I moved to the entrance, and they continued urging me to depart. I wonder, is Costa suggesting that the police manage how consumers buy coffee, or is this a deliberate act of racial...

I can honestly say I've never been to a costa like this. The members of staff are so unbelievably friendly, polite, accommodating and welcoming. The store is a lovely, spacious and clean store. The (mainly) girls and guys do an amazing job here and are the reason I always come back. I've been coming to this costa for quite a while now since around the beginning of October 2017 and have seen a lot of staff and managers come and go, a few of which I miss, but the customer service has never really dropped but since Ben taking over the store I can honestly say I've never had one bad experience, which is so lovely to see. I am always welcomed with a smile and asked about my day and kids and I've been asked about previous conversations that we've had. It's so nice to see that they genuienly care! I would like to say every member of staff here is amazing the main staples being Ben, the manager, he makes a good cappuccino Justine, Barista Maestro, is lovely to talk to and Yasmin is all round great, can also guarantee a good coffee and a good chat from her. I'm still learning the new staff but they are also just as lovely. Also bring back Elisha permanently! I miss her coffee's! She is hands down the best barista there! Seeing her every now and again isn't...

Don't like Costa as a company, but love this team. They bring life to the area.

Three years have passed since my original review. I still don't care about the chain, but the core team are an important part of our local community. They make you feel welcome and especially the senior staff is crazy about the quality of service. I think that this place could improve only if the chain allowed it to, because weak points are pre-made and strong points are crafted by the team itself. If they went independent they still would...