Last evening, I visited the Starbucks in Manassas and ordered a Pumpkin Spice Latte, a drink I’ve always loved and relied on to refresh myself, especially after a long day. However, this experience was far from what I expected. The latte was overloaded with syrup and sweetener, completely ruining the flavor profile that makes this drink a seasonal favorite. A well-made Pumpkin Spice Latte should balance the warm spice, rich espresso, and creamy milk perfectly, this drink was anything but balanced.
It’s disappointing to see such a lack of care in preparation. Making coffee isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about understanding the craft and respecting the customer’s expectations. Starbucks is a global name, and people pay a premium because they trust the quality. But when baristas treat their job as just a paycheck, it shows in the product. I truly believe Starbucks needs to prioritize hiring and training individuals who are passionate about coffee and take pride in what they serve.
To make matters worse, I called the store immediately to provide feedback, but no one answered. This lack of accountability and responsiveness reflects poorly on the store’s management. Customers invest their time and money in Starbucks, and we deserve better than this level of indifference.
This is a wake-up call for management to take quality control and training seriously. A Pumpkin Spice Latte isn’t just a drink, it’s an experience. If Starbucks wants to maintain its reputation, it needs to ensure every barista knows how to deliver that experience consistently and...
Read moreOn May 20, 2025, I visited this Starbucks with my son and his mother. We ordered two chocolate croissants, a Dragon Drink, and an iced coffee. After we had paid and were waiting for the rest of our order, my son accidentally dropped his croissant. While still at the drive-thru window, we asked the attendant if we could purchase another croissant. He agreed. However, as we were about to complete this new purchase, the employee preparing the food—a Black gentleman wearing a hat and glasses—interrupted, stating F that if we wanted to order again, we needed to go to the F ing back of the line and re-order, and that he would not make the item. When I asked him what the problem was, he responded that we were holding up the line and reiterated that we needed to move to the F ing back of the line to place another order. This employee was highly unprofessional and, in my opinion, should not be working at this or any other location. I have attempted to contact the manager but have not received a response. I have also reached out to corporate and am awaiting their reply. The service at this location is unacceptable. I do not recommend this Starbucks, and the employee involved in this incident should be dismissed. The following morning, I spoke with the shift leader and provided the exact time of our visit so they could review the security footage of the altercation. They have all the necessary information. I strongly advise against visiting...
Read moreOn 1/8/2024 at 12:27 pm, store number 13595, I was ordering a drink in the drive-through when I jumbled my words and even apologized to the person taking my order, and she responded, "yea, I know words are hard," mocking me while taking my order. People go to an establishment because of good service and product, and I know if this complaint will go anywhere, but I will write it anyway. When I finished the order, I thanked her for taking it and moved to the window; after receiving it, I asked the employee who took my order. He stated that he was unsure, but when I mentioned what she had said, he knew who it was based on his facial expression since she said it loud enough for them to hear it as she took my order. I told him it's very disrespectful and not good service for someone to make fun of a person they are taking an order from. I told him it was poor customer service and that it should be dealt with; he apologized and made an excuse for being stressed and busy. I told him what if I was a bad person and reacted negatively toward you. I stated you never know what type of day someone is having, and being respectful to people while providing a service is easy. I know it was not his fault, and I was calm while talking to him, just passionate about not disrespecting people because you never know. It could be someone with a disability, but this person thought it was okay to mock a customer over tangling their words....
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