Best Starbucks staff I've encountered. They take pride in doing things right. Not all Starbucks are like this. I've been here regularly for years and only once was there a problem and it was corrected immediately.
(5)
Melanie J.
Mmm. Love my caramel macchiato. Not sure what it is, but it tastes better at this location than the other ones :). Maybe it's the ambience..?
(5)
Jen S.
Nice, shady outdoor seating and open late so that's the only reason I am giving it three stars. Otherwise, the bathroom and interior are in rather grubby condition. The ladies bathroom was a mess: the toilet handle is broken off and the soap dispenser is broken and aims sideways, narrowly missing you as the soap hits the wall and then pools to the floor making a big mess. The counter window is smudged and dirty and the counter by the window had crumbs on it. Overall, not a great impression. There are plenty of locations to choose from in other areas of town. This location doesn't have much competition, and it shows. The products are the same as other Starbucks. No issue with the products if you want to stop and grab a drink to go.
(3)
Raed M.
I don't care about any other Starbucks in the USA, this is thee best ever. Best customer service, best crafted coffees, and most importantly, the best baristas. It's pretty busy and they run out of pastries pretty fast. The baristas get to know you and if you come in regularly, they will remember your drink so by the time you get to the register while waiting in line, your coffee is ready! The weekends are crowded but the customers are locals and that's what makes this place great. The customers care about their neighborhood so they won't litter, they won't ignore you and strangers will chat you up. Yes, this is what a neighborhood cafe should be like. Their small and intimate patio is comfortable and shady under some trees in a nice part of Irving Park. Try this location and you'll wonder why other Starbucks location don't make you feel as welcome as this one.
(5)
Amanda C.
Very friendly staff here & they are quick on their feet! Ordered a breakfast sandwich it was fine nothing special but they get 5 stars for their service. They definitely have the better service than any other Starbucks I've been to!
(5)
Cheryl W.
I'm not a big coffee drinker, but when I do, I go extreme. Normally I hit a Starbucks downtown on the way to work when I'm in this mindset, but this time I decided to go local. I'm so glad I did! Disney musical Sundays...enough said. Along with two guys who were way more awake and friendly than I was at the moment. I love places where employees are happy to be there. I know people complain about waiting, but this was a Sunday at 7 am on the first day of DST...this might become my weekend place because I know it's a hard place to park during the weekdays. Either way, I was a happy (and very caffeinated) camper this morning.
(5)
Gale B.
I love Starbucks! But not all Starbucks are the same. This location is one of my FAV. The staff is awesome, they are efficient and engaging! Two things that are important in the morning. Love the outdoor seating too!! Although the parking is a beast!! It's worth looking for a spot...
(4)
ryan w.
Coffee on the go, period. I'm more interested in writing fictional biographies of the people working in here than discussing the "brew" or whatever. The staff is kinda interesting. Like - I swear to god that the cute girl with all the pins in her baseball cap took an acting class with me about 3 years ago. There's no way in hell I'd ever ask her that, of course. That's restraining order stuff. But what's her deal? Is she an actress after all? Then there's the chronically exhausted dude with the ponytail and the hangdog eyes. What's his story? He probably invents shit in his spare time. I bet he has a little shed in the backyard where he builds rockets by hand (or grows hydroponic weed). Anyway, on my weekdays off I usually hobble in here around 9 with a lacerating wine hangover that's only made worse by the store's ongoing medley of Norah Jones and Elvis Costello (aka "Hell's Soundtrack"). Half the time the place is needlessly crowded by Eastern European creepjobs who speed talk Serb-Croat or Polish into their jewel-encrusted cell phones. Fuckers. Go sell coke in your own countries, and lose the designer sweatsuits. Shit was never cool, not here, not even on your Stalinist home turf. In fact, the last time anyone publicly wore pricey sweats was in 2001. I'm thinking of Ashton Kutcher and Sean Scott in "Dude, Where's My Car." Perhaps the Eurotrash regard that film as a classic? It wouldn't be surprising, once you consider that "Cabaret" is the "La Dolce Vita" of the Ukraine. Otherwise, the customers are mommies, nannies, and self-employed geeks who pretend to work on their laptops but are actually looking for underage massage on craigslist. Maybe that's why I always feel a little gross walking in here? Or maybe it's the fact that this location is within a block of three churches? I dunno. I don't subscribe to the Starbucks-as-Goliath worldview, so ubiquity plays no part. This location just has a weird (albeit charming) vibe to it.
(4)
Carrie A.
I love this Starbucks! Me and my classmates get together here to study for class on Sundays! In the summertime they have awesome outdoor seating! There is Wi-Fi and it's a great place to study, hangout and/or just meet new people! The staff is super friendly!
(5)
Renaldo P.
Great service. I come here 2-3 times a day.
(5)
Ana M.
I might only have checked-in here once but I am pretty much stop there before work every day. In the mornings its usually busy, parking is hellish and the staff could be a little nicer other than there's nothing special about this starbucks, the decor is blah and like I said the staff could be a little nicer.
(2)
Caroline B.
My local Starbucks, populated my friendly managers and baristas at all hours of the day. I've been both a morning rush and evening-chat customer over the years and no matter what the hour of the day, I recognize someone standing behind the bar. Like all good Starbucks baristas, they know your order when you walk in -- they even know that mine changes all the time. As others have said, it's pretty much always crowded. Less so on weekday nights after 8, but otherwise, it's a rare day when I don't see someone I know there. About 1/3 of the time I am in there, I have 1-4 kids in tow and the staff is always amazingly patient with my ridiculous snacks -with-one-coffee-order. I ran into the recently retired manager at an area Costco and she was pretty pleasant while we tried to place each other. I've seen other baristas at my local Jewel or Target, and like that the baristas are a part of the neighborhood even within a huge chain like Starbucks.
(5)
Jess R.
Can get crowded, sometimes my order is wrong, but, it's a pretty standard Starbucks compared to other experiences. Parking is usually a pain...no matter what time of day.
(4)
Murphy G.
This starbucks needs to learn from the more efficient ones!! The staff is nice, but it is outrageous how long it takes for them to move a line along and make a drink, and often it's wrong (e.g. you say unsweetened and they give you sweetened, you request a turkey bacon breakfast sandwich and they give you a regular one, etc.). And honestly, often I wait so long that I just take the wrong order and go because I can't handle another 10 minute wait with a cranky toddler and often a dog tied up outside. To be honest, I only go there on weekends simply because I can't afford a 10-15 minute wait before work. Please please introduce their managers to ones who work at some of the more efficient stores in the city!
(2)
Fady E.
I think management needs to send secret shoppers there and get a feel for why a few employees ruin the Starbucks brand there and maybe do something about it. There are, however, a few who are quite outstanding at that location.
(2)
Andrew M.
Ughhhh! The lines! I come everyday and wait at least 10min. People order 10 drinks and the baristas have a hard time keeping up. Lots of young girls ordering frappachinos which take awhile to make. I usually can't find a place to sit. I think this is the only Starbucks on the Northwest side so everyone and their mothers comes here. Well what u gunna do. Staff is nice though.
(2)
Patrycja E Z.
I love to work on my computer here. This is my favorite Starbucks for sure! Staff is always smiling. They are very nice and helpfull.
(4)
Judy E.
Once upon a time I was in food service and I appreciate the hard work and difficulties of servers and retail workers. I also LOVE Starbucks chai latte and it's maddening that I rarely get it anymore because my neighborhood Starbucks is such an unpredictable mess. It wasn't always this way. There used to be a cheerful, tall blonde woman who could zip through a line of 10 people in no time, but even when things backed up you didn't mind waiting because cheerful employees were working to serve customers drinks that were always yummy and delicious. That was then. Now, whether there's a line or not, behind the counter employees are at best, diffident and at worst, discourteous. But the saddest fact is the inconsistent taste of the chai latte. Sometimes it's so watery you wonder if they forgot to add the tea. If you tell them it was watery last time they ask if you want it extra strong, or how many pumps do you want - how would I know? I want it the way it tastes at every other Starbucks I've had it at and I have no idea how they make it. A few days ago I was driving home, saw the store was empty, and decided to pick up tea and a sandwich. Although the only customer, the three employees behind the counter continued their activities for about two minutes before one came over to take my order. After ordering I moved to the pick-up counter at the back and noted a number of people entering the store until there were nine people in line. I also observed what appeared to be a manager and his assistant walking the store and conversing with a person that may have been a vendor. In the meantime behind the counter two baristas were serving the growing line and a third employee was walking back and forth behind the counter, sometimes straightening objects on shelving, sometimes just watching the two baristas. The line continued to grow as my drink was delivered and I waited for my sandwich. After the third person who entered after me got a food order while I waited, I inquired after my sandwich and was told by the woman who had been walking back and forth behind the counter she would "put it in." Apparently the order had never been placed. By then I'd been there 15 minutes and declined. When I got back to the car I took my first sip of tea and discovered it was lukewarm and tasted like they had skimped on the milk. I also realized I couldn't recall seeing one employee smile. Sorry, but this branch won't get any more chances from me. When I'm craving Starbucks I'll make the trip to Clark & Belmont (a great branch:) or the drive-through on McCormick Blvd, or a branch inside a Target store, or perhaps just wait for the urge to pass. Very sad:(
(1)
William Q.
Starbucks doesn't accept cash anymore!?!?!? My bill was $17.03, handed the cashier a fifty dollar bill and she wouldn't accept it! She fed me some BS about not being able to make change. I could understand that if they had just opened but it was almost 10am and its a busy Starbucks on a Sat. morning. They can't make change of $32.97!!!!!!!!!$&@&$@?@
(1)
Aaliyah S.
I visit this Starbucks quite often and have not once been unhappy..I must add though that like every other Starbucks,they can get very busy..but the workers handle the pressure great
(5)
Jason S.
Worst Starbucks ever. Now I love Starbucks. I visit everyday. And, while this one is close to my work .... I avoid it like a psycho ex girlfriend. Two years ago this was not to bad. I half to blame most of the inept new staff. Every time I go....be it a morning...evening.... One person in line or four. I always end up waiting for at least twenty minutes for a simple iced drink. Maybe they are doing some weird experiment to see how long they can make the average yuppie wait before they lose their mind. If thats the case then they are doing well. Also cops seem to frequent this place. Which is great. Until they are allowed to cut in front of you or get helped while you still wait. I hate to use this line but..... I pay your salaries. While I am grateful for all you do. Just because your a cop does not mean you are any better than another working stiff. My final episode with this place was two days ago. I ordered my simple iced drink.... (well, after the African american guy at the counter was finished having a lengthy lil chat with some woman who had been done ordering for awhile) I waited... waited... The next person joined me and waited.. .waited... Then another to wait.....wait....wait.... (Note . It was not at peak time and not busy) The hold up was one dude who seemed new making ALL drinks. I actually felt for the overwhelmed guy as his experienced co workers......did not assist him at all with the mounting orders! The cashier stood by the register though no one was ordering. Maybe he was glued there or something. The spectacled hispanic dude ......well he got some ice. Then walked around staring into space. Well he did briefly answer a question from the frazzled barista then wandered off again. If I was the boss and saw this. Two of em woulda been fired. The only one that did what he could was the busy new barista. ..*African american young guy....wish I knew his name cause he deserved some credit for not quitting! So. If you enjoy being ignored, waiting forever when there is no need to.....rude inattentive staff. Yup. This is the starbucks for you! Ill be going to any other location other than here.
(1)
G R.
This is clearly a Starbucks that serves the neighborhood since it's the worst if you're driving and stop here. No where to park. The best advice I can give you if you're driving if there is no parking on Kostner is to go around the block by going west at the end of the block and come around east on Irving, park just right past the bus shelter it is legal parking, free and usually you'll find a spot. Once you cross Kostner again it's hard to park. However, I'm not knocking them for the parking, they can't help that in Old Irving every other house has a driveway and you can't park. The homes were there first anyhow. What I can knock them on is store design, you can't move around poor layout. The service is slow, always a long line. I like a double cup with my coffee, many times I bring one in I reuse it. But at this SB, when you ask for one the barista removes it, or when I bring one in they'll decide to use it as the primary cup after being told it's supposed to be a double cup. Then when they hand you the drink and ask for the double cup, as you asked for it before they give you a disapproving look. If I want an extra cup for my almost five dollar cup of coffee, give it to me. I'm old enough to be a parent of most of them behind the counter, so they can leave the look at home for their five year old sibling. My other gripe, no decaf in the afternoon. What's with that? I was told they stop making it in the afternoon, who needs decaf in the morning? Isn't this backwards? At this location, you have to get it special made in their clover machine, of course that costs more. Don't know if this is the case elsewhere. I was told to go to the SB at Lawrence and Pulaski for a regular cup of decaf. #!#$%! WTH? I also was told they weren't sure whether or not they'd have it. Geez, I'm glad I don't drink decaf and was just picking up for someone else. There aren't many coffee places to chose from on this side of town, if you like Dunkin you'll have more luck, you need to be east of Western, or better yet Damen for some choice. Someone should open something up around here, and if you have parking you'll be a big success. The long ling tells me that there is demand for coffee up this way.
(2)
Steve M.
I have visited a lot of Starbucks in my travels yet I have never been to one where the person taking your order was also warming the food plus making all the coffee. I know it was 6:30pm on a Monday evening but still only one person knowing what to do. There was another person who came out of the back room saw the line and went back into hiding. There was also another guy standing behind the counter and I hope he was just new but he certainly didn't help out.
(2)
Estela M.
I ordered a grilled cheese sandwich and I got a cold ungrilled cheese sandwich instead. I had to come all the way back to get it heated up..there wasn't even a line. They also thought it was funny.
(1)
Tina G.
The staff at this Starbucks is so nice and welcoming. I hardly get to visit my neighborhood Starbucks and yet they still know me! Customer service speaking I would give this place 100. It's the limited parking and small patio that prevents me from rating this place higher. Wish there was just a little more elbow room, otherwise great place.
(4)
Ken W.
Starbucks is always quality coffee. This location has good and quick service to back that quality up. The outside seating and wifi is an added bonus.
(4)
Clint B.
I'm not one that Yelps every place that I go to, but this Starbucks is very worthy of a 5 Star from me. I figured after a year of going there 5-8 times/week, it was time. This is a CITY location right off the HWY and prone to unreal crowds. Its small and very tight, but the staff is always on POINT!!! Sometimes it simply amazes me how they work through a line of 10+ people with 2 cash registers and usually 1 person making drinks. I have been to Starbucks all over the country and have never seen a team hustle like they do. I wish I knew more names, but unfortunately they don't wear name tags. BEN stands out as a huge role in the lively action that IS the crazy rush at a busy location! Keep up the great work!!!! Drinks are always perfect!!! And I have gotten a little tricky these days! ;-)
(5)
Caroline D.
The best Starbucks location ever? Yeah . . . I think so. Super quick and friendly service, good crowd flow management, nice seating, great decor. They're coming correct.
(5)
Christina K.
This could possibly be the slowest Starbucks in the world! The employees really seem to have no passion for the job. I end up waiting 10 mins to get just an iced coffee. I now stop at an independent place on Irving park. I just can't handle waiting so long for a drink so simple! Why do these people move so slow? By the way I worked at Starbucks for 7 years and I know this line can move faster! Come on guys get it together. Maybe try pulling shots and steaming milk at the same time while turning your lazy ass around making a frapp. It can be done I know those new espresso bars are automatic! Then while the frapp is blending turn around and finish off that latte. Take my advice you will no longer have those ten people staring at you while waiting for drinks. Don't even get me started on the girl that is supposed to be expediting! Can you say SLOW!
(1)
Shawn m.
Very slow service.....and very rude employees.....thank you is usually followed by "you're welcome"....not at this location....very unorganized....3 drinks were waiting to be made while 4 different employees wandered around...when im spending on average 15$ a day...I expect a litttle more...like not to wait 7 minutes for a chai..and hmm...a smile and you're welcome would be nice.
(1)
Christina M.
It's starbucks. They always do a great job! Thank you for an excellent chai tea latte on ice!
(4)
G M.
Really? Fast? Friendly? Umm, try again. Maybe I am going on an off day? I try to stop by here on the weekends but, I always end up waiting 10 minutes for a drink. I now stop at the new coffee place across from portage park. I can't risk pulling up to this Starbucks with a line out the door! No joke. Really people wait in a line that long for Starbucks! Next time I witness the longest Starbucks line known to man I am snapping a picture. Then I'll post it here and you all can see. Really they are fast here? I must be going on a bad day.
(1)
Carmen G.
This is a pretty cramped location. It's not that it's small, but the set up is such that you are bumping elbows to get anywhere in the restaurant. It's off a busy street (Irving Park) so it's usually pretty busy and rarely is there a place available to sit.Parking is insanely difficult to find- no lot.
(3)
Jay V.
Killer. Some MILF scoped me out. I scoped back. The place was jumping on a Saturday afternoon. Iced Tea was perfect. Good place to hang. Go now!
(5)
Robby C.
Internet here sucks and there's only one outlet for a computer in the whole store. Nice coffee though
(3)
Jane M.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for being the earliest opening Starbucks in the area. 5am. The low fat Vanilla you made for me was a life saver. I haven't been a morning person in a loooong time and this simple cup of coffee was very needed and appreciated. The staff is nice and friendly, the place is clean. It's a nice neighborhood hang -out.
(5)
Miguel N.
5am... that says it all
(5)
Amanda G.
My mom works here! She's pretty awesome but will probably talk your ear off. Her name's Sandy, say hi to her. Obviously every time I go in, everyone is very nice to me. And I like their new coffee; it's strong and no longer tastes burnt. So, there you go. Five stars for mom. Go mom!
(5)
Barbie S.
I always order my favorite NF chia tea latte, and they make them great here. The outdoor seating is great! I actually think there is more outdoor seating than indoor. The indoor seating is definitely limited. The staff seemed ok, and it was clean... My only complaint is that the parking sucks (Kostner is one way street - and always packed) and if you are heading west on Irving Park well really - good luck.
(4)
Khadijah S.
I've been going there since it opened, I think, in 2003. I always have "complicated" dirinks, like a grande easy-ice soy 6-pump cinnamon doce latte in a double-cup. Very rarely somebody doesn't get one of my whacky drinks correct. They know me so well, that all I have to do is yell out my usual "GOOD MORNING!!" and they greet me back with "Good morning, Faith!" -- They don't even have to see my face; they recognize my voice! I love that place!
(5)
Daniel N.
Pretty much perfect as most SBux are. Very little and tight parking but nice quick service by wonderfully friendly and social employees. High 5 guys! With better and more accessible parking this could be a 5 star location!
(4)
Rachel M.
They must slip something into the water at this Starbucks. I swear, the people that work here are the nicest, and often most hilarious, people I'll meet in a given day. It's my local Starbucks, so the sort of weird location and lack of parking don't bother me. It's clean, they make the drinks consistently and correctly, and everything always looks nice (newspapers stacked, sugar/milk area neat, display case stocked) even though it's busy pretty often. The music is unfortunate but not repellent. The aircon is usually cranked a tad high. And I wish they had a couch or two for increased coziness factor. It's a Starbucks, but it's a Starbucks that does everything right.
(4)
Marvin G.
I love this Starbucks.. since it's near my place.. The staff are really friendly and the locale that comes here are pretty nice as well.. what more can I say about starbucks? lol
(5)
Jessica H.
This is the best Starbucks in the city! They have the best staff ever - there is one guy there in particular (whose name I sadly forget) who is always super sweet!
(5)
Margaret A.
I dont like this Starbucks at all. Its too crowded and the workers are rude. For the prices they charge they need a better attitude.
(2)
Jerry G.
No place to park are they doing great job and friendly people.. I give it 5 stars parking is not their fault anyway
(5)
Jesus G.
Starbucks itself is great. .. coffee and staff are awesome however I give it this ratings solely because it is extremely hard to find parking around here! There have been times when I actually drive away to another starbucks just because I couldn't find parking around.
(3)
Stephanie H.
Since this is my new neighborhood Starbucks, I had to check it out. This place is packed all the time, it seems. The staff seems to know everyone who walks it, and they're really very nice. It's a friendly, neighborhood atmosphere, even though it's a chain. The staff is not very fast on the count of all the visiting with the regulars. So, if you're not in a hurry, this is a great little spot.
(4)
Nina I.
Like every other Starbucks. Friendly staff, good coffee, they just need to clean their machines more often.
(4)
liz s.
I go to this Starbucks because it is a stone's throw from my home. I will never attempt to order decaf there again though - two sleepless nights after stopping in for a warm up on the way home from the Blue Line stop were enough. It's clean. The staff is not speedy. It is always packed as this is the only sbux for a couple miles around. And DO NOT TRUST THE DECAF. The outdoor seating area is pretty nice though.
(2)
MJ D.
Great neighborhood Starbucks. The coffee is great as usual. The staff is Very friendly. The store is always clean. My only complaint is they get to busy on Saturday morning.
(4)
Grace K.
This too is my neighborhood Starbucks and I want to give them a big shout-out! The people who work here are great - there's a guy who is so good at remembering the names of all the regulars and their drinks. It is generally pretty busy, and sometimes, you can't even find a table or seat available...but you eventually do. Like everyone said, the outdoor seating when the weather's warm is awesome. Parking around here is okay. It's hit and miss, but you'll eventually find one.
(5)
Misi P.
Just like most Starschmucks, this one is decent with a nice outside patio. Great thing is they have good side street parking, but there's nothing outstanding about it. Well, it is Starschmucks.
(3)
Terrel K.
This starbucks just keeps getting better & better.excellent staff always on point to make your drink correctly and get you on your way.
David L.
Best Starbucks staff I've encountered. They take pride in doing things right. Not all Starbucks are like this. I've been here regularly for years and only once was there a problem and it was corrected immediately.
(5)Melanie J.
Mmm. Love my caramel macchiato. Not sure what it is, but it tastes better at this location than the other ones :). Maybe it's the ambience..?
(5)Jen S.
Nice, shady outdoor seating and open late so that's the only reason I am giving it three stars. Otherwise, the bathroom and interior are in rather grubby condition. The ladies bathroom was a mess: the toilet handle is broken off and the soap dispenser is broken and aims sideways, narrowly missing you as the soap hits the wall and then pools to the floor making a big mess. The counter window is smudged and dirty and the counter by the window had crumbs on it. Overall, not a great impression. There are plenty of locations to choose from in other areas of town. This location doesn't have much competition, and it shows. The products are the same as other Starbucks. No issue with the products if you want to stop and grab a drink to go.
(3)Raed M.
I don't care about any other Starbucks in the USA, this is thee best ever. Best customer service, best crafted coffees, and most importantly, the best baristas. It's pretty busy and they run out of pastries pretty fast. The baristas get to know you and if you come in regularly, they will remember your drink so by the time you get to the register while waiting in line, your coffee is ready! The weekends are crowded but the customers are locals and that's what makes this place great. The customers care about their neighborhood so they won't litter, they won't ignore you and strangers will chat you up. Yes, this is what a neighborhood cafe should be like. Their small and intimate patio is comfortable and shady under some trees in a nice part of Irving Park. Try this location and you'll wonder why other Starbucks location don't make you feel as welcome as this one.
(5)Amanda C.
Very friendly staff here & they are quick on their feet! Ordered a breakfast sandwich it was fine nothing special but they get 5 stars for their service. They definitely have the better service than any other Starbucks I've been to!
(5)Cheryl W.
I'm not a big coffee drinker, but when I do, I go extreme. Normally I hit a Starbucks downtown on the way to work when I'm in this mindset, but this time I decided to go local. I'm so glad I did! Disney musical Sundays...enough said. Along with two guys who were way more awake and friendly than I was at the moment. I love places where employees are happy to be there. I know people complain about waiting, but this was a Sunday at 7 am on the first day of DST...this might become my weekend place because I know it's a hard place to park during the weekdays. Either way, I was a happy (and very caffeinated) camper this morning.
(5)Gale B.
I love Starbucks! But not all Starbucks are the same. This location is one of my FAV. The staff is awesome, they are efficient and engaging! Two things that are important in the morning. Love the outdoor seating too!! Although the parking is a beast!! It's worth looking for a spot...
(4)ryan w.
Coffee on the go, period. I'm more interested in writing fictional biographies of the people working in here than discussing the "brew" or whatever. The staff is kinda interesting. Like - I swear to god that the cute girl with all the pins in her baseball cap took an acting class with me about 3 years ago. There's no way in hell I'd ever ask her that, of course. That's restraining order stuff. But what's her deal? Is she an actress after all? Then there's the chronically exhausted dude with the ponytail and the hangdog eyes. What's his story? He probably invents shit in his spare time. I bet he has a little shed in the backyard where he builds rockets by hand (or grows hydroponic weed). Anyway, on my weekdays off I usually hobble in here around 9 with a lacerating wine hangover that's only made worse by the store's ongoing medley of Norah Jones and Elvis Costello (aka "Hell's Soundtrack"). Half the time the place is needlessly crowded by Eastern European creepjobs who speed talk Serb-Croat or Polish into their jewel-encrusted cell phones. Fuckers. Go sell coke in your own countries, and lose the designer sweatsuits. Shit was never cool, not here, not even on your Stalinist home turf. In fact, the last time anyone publicly wore pricey sweats was in 2001. I'm thinking of Ashton Kutcher and Sean Scott in "Dude, Where's My Car." Perhaps the Eurotrash regard that film as a classic? It wouldn't be surprising, once you consider that "Cabaret" is the "La Dolce Vita" of the Ukraine. Otherwise, the customers are mommies, nannies, and self-employed geeks who pretend to work on their laptops but are actually looking for underage massage on craigslist. Maybe that's why I always feel a little gross walking in here? Or maybe it's the fact that this location is within a block of three churches? I dunno. I don't subscribe to the Starbucks-as-Goliath worldview, so ubiquity plays no part. This location just has a weird (albeit charming) vibe to it.
(4)Carrie A.
I love this Starbucks! Me and my classmates get together here to study for class on Sundays! In the summertime they have awesome outdoor seating! There is Wi-Fi and it's a great place to study, hangout and/or just meet new people! The staff is super friendly!
(5)Renaldo P.
Great service. I come here 2-3 times a day.
(5)Ana M.
I might only have checked-in here once but I am pretty much stop there before work every day. In the mornings its usually busy, parking is hellish and the staff could be a little nicer other than there's nothing special about this starbucks, the decor is blah and like I said the staff could be a little nicer.
(2)Caroline B.
My local Starbucks, populated my friendly managers and baristas at all hours of the day. I've been both a morning rush and evening-chat customer over the years and no matter what the hour of the day, I recognize someone standing behind the bar. Like all good Starbucks baristas, they know your order when you walk in -- they even know that mine changes all the time. As others have said, it's pretty much always crowded. Less so on weekday nights after 8, but otherwise, it's a rare day when I don't see someone I know there. About 1/3 of the time I am in there, I have 1-4 kids in tow and the staff is always amazingly patient with my ridiculous snacks -with-one-coffee-order. I ran into the recently retired manager at an area Costco and she was pretty pleasant while we tried to place each other. I've seen other baristas at my local Jewel or Target, and like that the baristas are a part of the neighborhood even within a huge chain like Starbucks.
(5)Jess R.
Can get crowded, sometimes my order is wrong, but, it's a pretty standard Starbucks compared to other experiences. Parking is usually a pain...no matter what time of day.
(4)Murphy G.
This starbucks needs to learn from the more efficient ones!! The staff is nice, but it is outrageous how long it takes for them to move a line along and make a drink, and often it's wrong (e.g. you say unsweetened and they give you sweetened, you request a turkey bacon breakfast sandwich and they give you a regular one, etc.). And honestly, often I wait so long that I just take the wrong order and go because I can't handle another 10 minute wait with a cranky toddler and often a dog tied up outside. To be honest, I only go there on weekends simply because I can't afford a 10-15 minute wait before work. Please please introduce their managers to ones who work at some of the more efficient stores in the city!
(2)Fady E.
I think management needs to send secret shoppers there and get a feel for why a few employees ruin the Starbucks brand there and maybe do something about it. There are, however, a few who are quite outstanding at that location.
(2)Andrew M.
Ughhhh! The lines! I come everyday and wait at least 10min. People order 10 drinks and the baristas have a hard time keeping up. Lots of young girls ordering frappachinos which take awhile to make. I usually can't find a place to sit. I think this is the only Starbucks on the Northwest side so everyone and their mothers comes here. Well what u gunna do. Staff is nice though.
(2)Patrycja E Z.
I love to work on my computer here. This is my favorite Starbucks for sure! Staff is always smiling. They are very nice and helpfull.
(4)Judy E.
Once upon a time I was in food service and I appreciate the hard work and difficulties of servers and retail workers. I also LOVE Starbucks chai latte and it's maddening that I rarely get it anymore because my neighborhood Starbucks is such an unpredictable mess. It wasn't always this way. There used to be a cheerful, tall blonde woman who could zip through a line of 10 people in no time, but even when things backed up you didn't mind waiting because cheerful employees were working to serve customers drinks that were always yummy and delicious. That was then. Now, whether there's a line or not, behind the counter employees are at best, diffident and at worst, discourteous. But the saddest fact is the inconsistent taste of the chai latte. Sometimes it's so watery you wonder if they forgot to add the tea. If you tell them it was watery last time they ask if you want it extra strong, or how many pumps do you want - how would I know? I want it the way it tastes at every other Starbucks I've had it at and I have no idea how they make it. A few days ago I was driving home, saw the store was empty, and decided to pick up tea and a sandwich. Although the only customer, the three employees behind the counter continued their activities for about two minutes before one came over to take my order. After ordering I moved to the pick-up counter at the back and noted a number of people entering the store until there were nine people in line. I also observed what appeared to be a manager and his assistant walking the store and conversing with a person that may have been a vendor. In the meantime behind the counter two baristas were serving the growing line and a third employee was walking back and forth behind the counter, sometimes straightening objects on shelving, sometimes just watching the two baristas. The line continued to grow as my drink was delivered and I waited for my sandwich. After the third person who entered after me got a food order while I waited, I inquired after my sandwich and was told by the woman who had been walking back and forth behind the counter she would "put it in." Apparently the order had never been placed. By then I'd been there 15 minutes and declined. When I got back to the car I took my first sip of tea and discovered it was lukewarm and tasted like they had skimped on the milk. I also realized I couldn't recall seeing one employee smile. Sorry, but this branch won't get any more chances from me. When I'm craving Starbucks I'll make the trip to Clark & Belmont (a great branch:) or the drive-through on McCormick Blvd, or a branch inside a Target store, or perhaps just wait for the urge to pass. Very sad:(
(1)William Q.
Starbucks doesn't accept cash anymore!?!?!? My bill was $17.03, handed the cashier a fifty dollar bill and she wouldn't accept it! She fed me some BS about not being able to make change. I could understand that if they had just opened but it was almost 10am and its a busy Starbucks on a Sat. morning. They can't make change of $32.97!!!!!!!!!$&@&$@?@
(1)Aaliyah S.
I visit this Starbucks quite often and have not once been unhappy..I must add though that like every other Starbucks,they can get very busy..but the workers handle the pressure great
(5)Jason S.
Worst Starbucks ever. Now I love Starbucks. I visit everyday. And, while this one is close to my work .... I avoid it like a psycho ex girlfriend. Two years ago this was not to bad. I half to blame most of the inept new staff. Every time I go....be it a morning...evening.... One person in line or four. I always end up waiting for at least twenty minutes for a simple iced drink. Maybe they are doing some weird experiment to see how long they can make the average yuppie wait before they lose their mind. If thats the case then they are doing well. Also cops seem to frequent this place. Which is great. Until they are allowed to cut in front of you or get helped while you still wait. I hate to use this line but..... I pay your salaries. While I am grateful for all you do. Just because your a cop does not mean you are any better than another working stiff. My final episode with this place was two days ago. I ordered my simple iced drink.... (well, after the African american guy at the counter was finished having a lengthy lil chat with some woman who had been done ordering for awhile) I waited... waited... The next person joined me and waited.. .waited... Then another to wait.....wait....wait.... (Note . It was not at peak time and not busy) The hold up was one dude who seemed new making ALL drinks. I actually felt for the overwhelmed guy as his experienced co workers......did not assist him at all with the mounting orders! The cashier stood by the register though no one was ordering. Maybe he was glued there or something. The spectacled hispanic dude ......well he got some ice. Then walked around staring into space. Well he did briefly answer a question from the frazzled barista then wandered off again. If I was the boss and saw this. Two of em woulda been fired. The only one that did what he could was the busy new barista. ..*African american young guy....wish I knew his name cause he deserved some credit for not quitting! So. If you enjoy being ignored, waiting forever when there is no need to.....rude inattentive staff. Yup. This is the starbucks for you! Ill be going to any other location other than here.
(1)G R.
This is clearly a Starbucks that serves the neighborhood since it's the worst if you're driving and stop here. No where to park. The best advice I can give you if you're driving if there is no parking on Kostner is to go around the block by going west at the end of the block and come around east on Irving, park just right past the bus shelter it is legal parking, free and usually you'll find a spot. Once you cross Kostner again it's hard to park. However, I'm not knocking them for the parking, they can't help that in Old Irving every other house has a driveway and you can't park. The homes were there first anyhow. What I can knock them on is store design, you can't move around poor layout. The service is slow, always a long line. I like a double cup with my coffee, many times I bring one in I reuse it. But at this SB, when you ask for one the barista removes it, or when I bring one in they'll decide to use it as the primary cup after being told it's supposed to be a double cup. Then when they hand you the drink and ask for the double cup, as you asked for it before they give you a disapproving look. If I want an extra cup for my almost five dollar cup of coffee, give it to me. I'm old enough to be a parent of most of them behind the counter, so they can leave the look at home for their five year old sibling. My other gripe, no decaf in the afternoon. What's with that? I was told they stop making it in the afternoon, who needs decaf in the morning? Isn't this backwards? At this location, you have to get it special made in their clover machine, of course that costs more. Don't know if this is the case elsewhere. I was told to go to the SB at Lawrence and Pulaski for a regular cup of decaf. #!#$%! WTH? I also was told they weren't sure whether or not they'd have it. Geez, I'm glad I don't drink decaf and was just picking up for someone else. There aren't many coffee places to chose from on this side of town, if you like Dunkin you'll have more luck, you need to be east of Western, or better yet Damen for some choice. Someone should open something up around here, and if you have parking you'll be a big success. The long ling tells me that there is demand for coffee up this way.
(2)Steve M.
I have visited a lot of Starbucks in my travels yet I have never been to one where the person taking your order was also warming the food plus making all the coffee. I know it was 6:30pm on a Monday evening but still only one person knowing what to do. There was another person who came out of the back room saw the line and went back into hiding. There was also another guy standing behind the counter and I hope he was just new but he certainly didn't help out.
(2)Estela M.
I ordered a grilled cheese sandwich and I got a cold ungrilled cheese sandwich instead. I had to come all the way back to get it heated up..there wasn't even a line. They also thought it was funny.
(1)Tina G.
The staff at this Starbucks is so nice and welcoming. I hardly get to visit my neighborhood Starbucks and yet they still know me! Customer service speaking I would give this place 100. It's the limited parking and small patio that prevents me from rating this place higher. Wish there was just a little more elbow room, otherwise great place.
(4)Ken W.
Starbucks is always quality coffee. This location has good and quick service to back that quality up. The outside seating and wifi is an added bonus.
(4)Clint B.
I'm not one that Yelps every place that I go to, but this Starbucks is very worthy of a 5 Star from me. I figured after a year of going there 5-8 times/week, it was time. This is a CITY location right off the HWY and prone to unreal crowds. Its small and very tight, but the staff is always on POINT!!! Sometimes it simply amazes me how they work through a line of 10+ people with 2 cash registers and usually 1 person making drinks. I have been to Starbucks all over the country and have never seen a team hustle like they do. I wish I knew more names, but unfortunately they don't wear name tags. BEN stands out as a huge role in the lively action that IS the crazy rush at a busy location! Keep up the great work!!!! Drinks are always perfect!!! And I have gotten a little tricky these days! ;-)
(5)Caroline D.
The best Starbucks location ever? Yeah . . . I think so. Super quick and friendly service, good crowd flow management, nice seating, great decor. They're coming correct.
(5)Christina K.
This could possibly be the slowest Starbucks in the world! The employees really seem to have no passion for the job. I end up waiting 10 mins to get just an iced coffee. I now stop at an independent place on Irving park. I just can't handle waiting so long for a drink so simple! Why do these people move so slow? By the way I worked at Starbucks for 7 years and I know this line can move faster! Come on guys get it together. Maybe try pulling shots and steaming milk at the same time while turning your lazy ass around making a frapp. It can be done I know those new espresso bars are automatic! Then while the frapp is blending turn around and finish off that latte. Take my advice you will no longer have those ten people staring at you while waiting for drinks. Don't even get me started on the girl that is supposed to be expediting! Can you say SLOW!
(1)Shawn m.
Very slow service.....and very rude employees.....thank you is usually followed by "you're welcome"....not at this location....very unorganized....3 drinks were waiting to be made while 4 different employees wandered around...when im spending on average 15$ a day...I expect a litttle more...like not to wait 7 minutes for a chai..and hmm...a smile and you're welcome would be nice.
(1)Christina M.
It's starbucks. They always do a great job! Thank you for an excellent chai tea latte on ice!
(4)G M.
Really? Fast? Friendly? Umm, try again. Maybe I am going on an off day? I try to stop by here on the weekends but, I always end up waiting 10 minutes for a drink. I now stop at the new coffee place across from portage park. I can't risk pulling up to this Starbucks with a line out the door! No joke. Really people wait in a line that long for Starbucks! Next time I witness the longest Starbucks line known to man I am snapping a picture. Then I'll post it here and you all can see. Really they are fast here? I must be going on a bad day.
(1)Carmen G.
This is a pretty cramped location. It's not that it's small, but the set up is such that you are bumping elbows to get anywhere in the restaurant. It's off a busy street (Irving Park) so it's usually pretty busy and rarely is there a place available to sit.Parking is insanely difficult to find- no lot.
(3)Jay V.
Killer. Some MILF scoped me out. I scoped back. The place was jumping on a Saturday afternoon. Iced Tea was perfect. Good place to hang. Go now!
(5)Robby C.
Internet here sucks and there's only one outlet for a computer in the whole store. Nice coffee though
(3)Jane M.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for being the earliest opening Starbucks in the area. 5am. The low fat Vanilla you made for me was a life saver. I haven't been a morning person in a loooong time and this simple cup of coffee was very needed and appreciated. The staff is nice and friendly, the place is clean. It's a nice neighborhood hang -out.
(5)Miguel N.
5am... that says it all
(5)Amanda G.
My mom works here! She's pretty awesome but will probably talk your ear off. Her name's Sandy, say hi to her. Obviously every time I go in, everyone is very nice to me. And I like their new coffee; it's strong and no longer tastes burnt. So, there you go. Five stars for mom. Go mom!
(5)Barbie S.
I always order my favorite NF chia tea latte, and they make them great here. The outdoor seating is great! I actually think there is more outdoor seating than indoor. The indoor seating is definitely limited. The staff seemed ok, and it was clean... My only complaint is that the parking sucks (Kostner is one way street - and always packed) and if you are heading west on Irving Park well really - good luck.
(4)Khadijah S.
I've been going there since it opened, I think, in 2003. I always have "complicated" dirinks, like a grande easy-ice soy 6-pump cinnamon doce latte in a double-cup. Very rarely somebody doesn't get one of my whacky drinks correct. They know me so well, that all I have to do is yell out my usual "GOOD MORNING!!" and they greet me back with "Good morning, Faith!" -- They don't even have to see my face; they recognize my voice! I love that place!
(5)Daniel N.
Pretty much perfect as most SBux are. Very little and tight parking but nice quick service by wonderfully friendly and social employees. High 5 guys! With better and more accessible parking this could be a 5 star location!
(4)Rachel M.
They must slip something into the water at this Starbucks. I swear, the people that work here are the nicest, and often most hilarious, people I'll meet in a given day. It's my local Starbucks, so the sort of weird location and lack of parking don't bother me. It's clean, they make the drinks consistently and correctly, and everything always looks nice (newspapers stacked, sugar/milk area neat, display case stocked) even though it's busy pretty often. The music is unfortunate but not repellent. The aircon is usually cranked a tad high. And I wish they had a couch or two for increased coziness factor. It's a Starbucks, but it's a Starbucks that does everything right.
(4)Marvin G.
I love this Starbucks.. since it's near my place.. The staff are really friendly and the locale that comes here are pretty nice as well.. what more can I say about starbucks? lol
(5)Jessica H.
This is the best Starbucks in the city! They have the best staff ever - there is one guy there in particular (whose name I sadly forget) who is always super sweet!
(5)Margaret A.
I dont like this Starbucks at all. Its too crowded and the workers are rude. For the prices they charge they need a better attitude.
(2)Jerry G.
No place to park are they doing great job and friendly people.. I give it 5 stars parking is not their fault anyway
(5)Jesus G.
Starbucks itself is great. .. coffee and staff are awesome however I give it this ratings solely because it is extremely hard to find parking around here! There have been times when I actually drive away to another starbucks just because I couldn't find parking around.
(3)Stephanie H.
Since this is my new neighborhood Starbucks, I had to check it out. This place is packed all the time, it seems. The staff seems to know everyone who walks it, and they're really very nice. It's a friendly, neighborhood atmosphere, even though it's a chain. The staff is not very fast on the count of all the visiting with the regulars. So, if you're not in a hurry, this is a great little spot.
(4)Nina I.
Like every other Starbucks. Friendly staff, good coffee, they just need to clean their machines more often.
(4)liz s.
I go to this Starbucks because it is a stone's throw from my home. I will never attempt to order decaf there again though - two sleepless nights after stopping in for a warm up on the way home from the Blue Line stop were enough. It's clean. The staff is not speedy. It is always packed as this is the only sbux for a couple miles around. And DO NOT TRUST THE DECAF. The outdoor seating area is pretty nice though.
(2)MJ D.
Great neighborhood Starbucks. The coffee is great as usual. The staff is Very friendly. The store is always clean. My only complaint is they get to busy on Saturday morning.
(4)Grace K.
This too is my neighborhood Starbucks and I want to give them a big shout-out! The people who work here are great - there's a guy who is so good at remembering the names of all the regulars and their drinks. It is generally pretty busy, and sometimes, you can't even find a table or seat available...but you eventually do. Like everyone said, the outdoor seating when the weather's warm is awesome. Parking around here is okay. It's hit and miss, but you'll eventually find one.
(5)Misi P.
Just like most Starschmucks, this one is decent with a nice outside patio. Great thing is they have good side street parking, but there's nothing outstanding about it. Well, it is Starschmucks.
(3)Terrel K.
This starbucks just keeps getting better & better.excellent staff always on point to make your drink correctly and get you on your way.
(5)