Starbucks — Restaurant in Gainesville

My recent visit to a Starbucks location was marred by a series of disappointing experiences, starting with the lack of immediate acknowledgment upon arrival. Despite placing a mobile order 20 minutes before, the preparation only began after a noticeable wait at the register, where I was not greeted or acknowledged. The situation did not improve as my order was eventually prepared; it was simply placed on the counter without any verbal interaction, let alone a thank you.

More concerning was the apparent disparity in customer service based on ethnicity. I observed that customers of certain ethnicities were greeted and thanked more consistently, leading to feelings of isolation and concern about potential bias, especially given the absence of any employees from my own ethnic background. This experience has significantly impacted my perception of the brand, as I believe that the value of a Starbucks visit lies not just in the coffee but in the entire customer experience, which should be inclusive and respectful to all.

These service failures and the perception of discriminatory treatment are deeply troubling, especially for a brand that prides itself on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. As a result of this experience, I have decided not to return to this location, preferring to travel further to ensure a more positive and respectful service experience. Starbucks must address these serious issues of service inconsistency and potential bias to uphold its reputation and ensure all customers receive the equitable treatment they expect...

I usually always go to this location since it’s closest to my home. Out of all the times I’ve been here, today I had an unpleasant experience. The girl that was attending the drive thru window seemed like she was new and maybe she needs to find another job since customer service isn’t her best skill. I had requested a siracha sauce when I placed my order on the intercom, like I always do. Before I drove off I checked my bag to make sure I had it in my bag. When I noticed I was missing the sauce I asked her kindly if I could get the sauce. She gave me attitude and still had the audacity to tell me to order it at the intercom next time. I told her I did. Then she points at her headset telling me that I didn’t because she took the order. Good customer service should’ve been “I’m sorry, I must’ve missed that when you asked for it, I’ll go get that for you”. Instead of the service I received today. I would’ve put a 1 star review but I actually enjoy the rest of the staff here. It was just today that I noticed someone different and had a bad experience. She’s definitely not...

UPDATE 5/2/25: I wanted to update my previous review. I don’t know if I am experiencing a difference because I visit the Starbucks 15 to 20 minutes later in the morning than I used to or if they have made significant changes, however, four stars. My order is ready when I pick it up from online order. My drive-through experience is efficient and accurate. I’m overall pleased with the timeliness of my most recent experiences and I’m so happy the store has made some positive changes!

As the only Starbucks on my way to work, it is such a bummer that this store is so slow. I’ve tried three different times using drive-through and pick up and I end up spending an additional 15 minutes sometimes trying to get a coffee on my way to work. I know some things are out of their control, like staffing, however, with the right incentives and pay, they would experience less staffing shortages. When someone comes to pay nine dollars for a coffee, I don’t understand how they aren’t paying their staff enough and aren’t able...