Starbucks — Restaurant in Lakewood

I’ve been patronizing this Starbucks for nearly 20 years, ever since it was located in the King Soopers shopping center down the street. This has been my go-to coffee shop for a long time, often serving as my “Third Place” twice a day. Those days are over, though, and I’ll only visit this location out of desperation, if even then.

If you choose to use the drive through at this location, you’re golden. They take care of their drive-up customers. But if you go inside, prepare to be ignored, wait for a ridiculous amount of time while the drive-up is tended to, possibly receive the wrong drink order and watch as a handful of grumpy, overworked, underpaid baristas struggle to keep up. And it’s like this ALL the time.

The last time I went in was the last straw. There was only one person in line ahead of me, and he was already waiting at the end of the counter. It took several minutes for staff to see me at the register, and when someone did, she tried to hand me this other gentleman’s coffee. This guy seemed agitated and understandably so; all he ordered was a drip coffee and a cup of ice and he had clearly been waiting for some time.

There were four staff behind the counter. One girl was running the window and was clearly hustling and stressed. Another guy appeared to be making all the drinks and he was really hustling and stressed. Another girl, the one who kept the other customer waiting while she tried to give me his coffee, took my order. It was a simple one -a tall matcha latte, but she managed to screw it up, even though it was the only order she was working with. The only other thing she seemed to be doing was messing with the trash can, talking to the guy trying to make all of the drinks and playing with a broom. The fourth one was taking off her apron and going on break. It took over five minutes to get my drink, and it was wrong.

In the table area, what appeared to be a manager and another employee, sat interviewing a prospective employee. So in total, there were six employees and two customers in the store. And still they managed to make the other guy wait for a drip coffee and a cup of ice while they talked, tried to give me his coffee and screwed up the one bar order they had, which took way longer than it should have.

I worked at several coffee shops in the 90’s, including Starbucks. I know it can be fast-paced and challenging. Regardless, Starbucks has always made it a point to get their drinks right and make customers feel welcomed. Their whole philosophy revolved around the “Third Place”. And they were good at it. That’s gone now, though.

If you venture inside a Starbucks these days, certainly this one, don’t expect to feel welcomed. Instead, you’ll be greeted by a handful of stressed out employees who, if they acknowledge you at all, appear irritated that you came inside. I don’t think it’s their fault, though. They seem to be struggling with chaos and some pretty intense demand. They appear to be doing their best to cope with this ridiculous system that Starbucks has set up at the drive through stores.

Nope, not their fault. This is all on managment, both local and corporate. This location would probably do better if they just shut down the dining area and doubled their drive-up service.

*It must be acknowledged that, unlike the service you receive inside, the drive through experience is actually really good and the staff knowledgeable and nice. This is the way to go if you...

🌟 Jaw-Dropping Starbucks Review! 🌟

I am constantly in awe of the exceptional service provided by the amazing team at my favorite Starbucks! From the moment I walk through the door, I am greeted with warm smiles and engaging conversations that make me feel right at home.

But it doesn't stop there - they know my name and even my entire team's names! It's incredible to feel so valued and recognized as a regular customer.

What truly sets this Starbucks apart is the outstanding barista, Megan, and the rest of the team. Their dedication to their craft is unparalleled. They effortlessly remember our orders, making the experience both convenient and delightful.

One thing that truly warms my heart is how they embrace our service animal. It's so refreshing to see such inclusivity and acceptance.

But the real magic happens in the cup! The drinks they create are nothing short of extraordinary. They possess an incredible talent for crafting the perfect blend of flavors, and each sip is a moment of pure bliss.

What amazes me most is the team's unwavering commitment to going above and beyond. Whether it's suggesting new drink combinations, providing personalized recommendations, or simply brightening my day with their cheerful demeanor, they consistently exceed my expectations.

Megan and the entire team at this Starbucks are true coffee craftsmen, displaying their finest skills with every cup they prepare. Their passion for what they do is evident in every detail, making this place a haven for coffee enthusiasts like myself.

If you're looking for a coffee experience that transcends the ordinary, this Starbucks is an absolute must-visit. Megan and the team have created a welcoming atmosphere where impeccable service, genuine connections, and extraordinary beverages converge. They deserve all the recognition for their exceptional...

This morning I went in and there is no line which is great! Excited to order breakfast sandwiches and drinks with my boyfriend. We were being assisted by an employee named kaylee. She was very polite until I ordered my drink. Which was a green tea latte with soy milk, she had made me feel like it was out of the ordinary drink. I forgot I wanted it iced not hot. I thought the employees were suppose to ask if you wanted it a hot or cold beverage. So when I got it made by the other employee Kendra, I knew it wasn't what I wanted. I told my boyfriend and he was going to purchase another one due to my mistake. Kendra insisted she would make a new one, iced no problem. While making it kaylee came over very rudely and turned her back towards me and was talking to Kendra about me. I was going to tell her sorry I forgot I wanted it iced, but she didn't even look at me. Kaylee made me feel like a horrible guest. Kendra was AMAZING, very kind and sweet. That's why this review, I can only do 3 stars...