Costa Coffee — Restaurant in Scotland

During our visit to the UK, my sister introduced us to the Costa Coffee chain, openly declared it as her favourite for many years. I can see why. First item to catch the eye on approach were the street side advertising boards, “Coffee, spice and all things nice”, wonder where I have heard that catchy phrase before? ;-) This particular outlet has a drive-through as well, did not try it so cannot comment, but assume it would be as pleasant an experience as were the staff indoors. Sufficient parking readily available, relatively easy access off the A9 at the roundabout. Main entrance door clearly indicates what is or is not allowed. Dogs not allowed but guide dogs are. Not familiar with the guide-dog sign on the door, could not decide if it was a dog on a leash or guide-dog only. Did find the UK to be generally a dog friendly (obedient/well trained dogs) country, where dogs were welcomed at most places. I suppose when winter and snow sets in, you cannot leave your dog tethered outside. :-( Regardless, both inside and surrounds were clean, staff friendly, the Barista attentive to any special requirements, skinny this and that, less coffee more milk etc. (my sister). Spoilt for choice from coffee to all sorts of other refreshments covering juices, energy drinks (for those that take it on the run), soda’s, ice teas and so forth. As for the “all things nice”, consider that as an understatement. Wide selection of pastries, a little pricey for us (shocking exchange rate for South Africans), but we were sorely tempted. :-) Only one let down, almost non-existent offering for the Banting/low carbohydrate fraternity. Other than that, the wife loved the Cappuccino and my Americano went down a real treat. Reserve a rating of 5 for the extraordinary, but would certainly rate it a 4.9 if I could. Great brand, store and staff. If we were fortunate enough to get to travel to the UK again, I know where to go for a great Americano. I will bring my own Banting/low...

Ordered two medium lattes for our reusable cups. Had to cancel one when the barista(no name badge on shirt) decided to make a skimmed(skinny) latte. When challenged he advised there was no green(semi-skimmed) milk so he thought rather than ask he would just make a skimmed milk version. I asked for a refund for one, should have been both as when we checked the coffee he made it was just over half full, making this less than a small coffee. Come on guys, what happened to the "Brand Standard". Also, on the way out it looked like they had green(semi-skimmed) milk across at the drive thru bar. Too rushed to complain and wondered what difference it would have made anyway. Get a grip Costa, retrain these guys at least, and teach then common sense and good manners while...

Costa drive through is what gets me by on my busy days, big thank you to the staff who do the window take away and I'm unsure what the guys name is but he always puts a smile on my face with his cheery and positive attitude and especially Emma.. who said she had only recently started working there since March but she makes my day! Lovely person and always happy when she is at that window serving me. Well done, you are great at your job and a lovely person. Thanks, Libby At...