Starbucks — Restaurant in West Haven

I have worked in customer service for 15 years. I have always said, “ If everyone was required to work a customer service job, even for only a week, this world would be a better place”. It’s hard, draining, and exhausting.. mentally and physically. Plain and simple.

Some people refer to it as “blood money” meaning it’s hard earned, with sweat and tears.

I moved to West Haven 4 years ago and go to this store with my pups almost 3-4 times a week. Yes, I drink a lot of coffee. Lol.

Businesses like this, turn over rate is very high… mainly because no one wants to work anymore and it’s hard to find GOOD Workers. I can whole heartedly say however, over the years certain staff have stuck out which would be Rose, Tyler, and Carlos (cool green hair).

Rose.. my girl! You are always is in good spirits and have a smile on her face. When I go with my pups, it’s not just “Hi, what can I get you?” it’s Hi Alexa, how are you? how are the dogs? how are things? I will pull up to the drive through and you it’s me, just going off my voice. This place is always slammed, but your customer service is never short of the upmost best, and memorable. Miya, Simba, and I appreciate you! and the pup cups!

Carlos, I remember going to the Milford store one day and the few customers infront of me were miserable, condescending, and demanding… for no reason. I remember saying how I liked your cool hair color and then commended you for how patient you were. Honestly, blew my socks off. Today when seeing you again I said, “Wow, you’re still with this company?” it’s been a while now, good for you.. and you responded with, “If I am being honest… I just love what I do. I love the art and craft in what goes behind being a Barista, and enjoy interacting with the public”. The thing is, I already knew this just from the opportunity of witnessing your work ethic as a frequent customer.

Lastly, Tyler!!! THE OG!!!! I can recall during finals week this past Winter.. I visited WestHaven Starbs every day.. twice a day…morning & night… and every time Tyler was working. On that Sunday that week I said, “Dude, have you heard of a day off?” He laughed, and then said a bunch of call outs happened and morally, couldn’t leave the store and staff short handed to struggle. I wanted to throw his apron and work for him but Tyler and I both it would have been like having Hellen Keller working. Anyways, that same night when they were literally closing.. my battery was dead… and It was also snowing and -10 degrees. MY POINT IS.. Tyler.. you could have just closed up shop, got in your car, and went home. But because of the good person you are, you helped me to get my car battery jumped, and stuck around standing out in the freezing cold so I wasn’t alone and stranded with a dead phone AND stayed an HOUR past your shift. Just to help me and I am just a customer. Truthfully, it is one of the nicest things anyone has ever done for me.

Your professionalism, customer service, kindness, and hard work speaks volumes and deserves recognition. These qualities often go unrecognized… and deserve credit when it’s due. I want this company to realize how lucky they are...

I was not pleased with the service I received from this Starbucks. I went there a few hrs after landing in New York from San Diego, hunger and fatigue plagued me. I was "greeted" by a male of a shorter statue that seemed annoyed with inquisition of options from the menu. Mind you, Starbucks isn't as popular in the country where I am from, and he made my first try of the well famous American coffee house a troublesome one. After purchasing a chicken wrap and an ice brew coffee, I sat and waited patiently for my drink to be ready. I had no knowledge of the average wait time, but with being one of four persons currently in the facility, I figured my wait shan't be long. After 20mins I approached the cashier once more to asked about my illusive drink, and he responded with total ignorance, as if he knew nothing of what I spoke. Then after describing my drink and presenting my receipt, he pointed to my coffee that had been sitting and waiting. He claimed my name was called, but if that were the case, it must have been done under very minute volume. He also claimed that I must have been preoccupied why I did not hear. When I collected the drink, the name was incorrect (my name: Page) , which could have mean that they called the wrong name. This vexed me, but I had no time to begin a discussion about it, as my weariness was too great. I enjoyed my drink and wrap, and it is something I would try again, but definately not from...

Noticed the new Starbucks open on Saw Mill Road. I dropped in to give it a try. Music was so loud it sounded more like a night club than a coffee shop. The store was noticeably disorganized. A stack of unstocked product on the main floor appeared neglected and presented a tripping hazard. Entire space was littered with discarded straws, napkins and other debris. Worse than untidy, it was a wreck. The floor was also in bad need of mopping. The food cooler was a total mess with product strewn on every shelf. The free standing shelves on the floor were not properly stocked and appeared more like a tag sale than a Starbucks. Staff were friendly and helpful and the coffee as good as it gets. I hope their leadership team will work on the orginization and upkeep. It's a terrific location with ample parking and a nice outdoor space. I'd recommend the drive through for now and give it a month to see...