This place is almost always a zoo. My experiences with service haven't always been the greatest. Not the best place to study. HOWEVER, they have great outdoor seating next to the fountains and Joe DiMaggio statue. You can watch the birds eat trash and run from the bees. There is usually a guy outside selling Streetwise magazine. Beware, he will try to hit on your girlfriend. Oh yeah, cold brew is good.
(3)
Shriman S.
Way too crowded. Too many nearby coffee places that serve better, are quieter and have better coffee. Walked in for a cuppa on a Friday evening (in a quest to complete a presentation). Didn't work too well. Place was crowded with no place to sit. Decided to sit at the fountain place right outside. Cup served was standard Starbucks (no plus or minus point there) though I found the barista to be rather reserved (would expect friendlier service especially since it's a new customer). No questions were asked about further customizing the coffee. Order was quick (within 4-5 mins) and that's a plus as the cafe was busy. Overall, an average experience.
(3)
Banu K.
very nice starbucks. full parking on street (with meter). we went and grabbed some kid vanilla mistos and adult mistos before the circus. nice service, they answered all my questions of the verismo, which i'm considering buying. we sat on the barstools in front of the window, the kids loved it. i like a smile and thank you and your welcome when we come to any starbucks, and this place did it. thank you!
(5)
Debbie D.
This is the only Starbucks that is a convenient stop on the way to work, however they have run out if chances and I now go out of my way to stop at a different location and add about 15 minutes to my commute. My drink is always a skinny cinnamon dolce latte with whip. (The whip is what makes it so good! That first sip...aaaaah.) yet they never, ever put the whip on it. I always get "well you ordered it skinny." I have resorted to shouting the "with whip" part they still just ignore it. Either they don't write it on the cup or the barista doesn't read the cup. Then I get major attitude when I hand it back (eye rolls, snotty comments, etc). I've complained about this particular location, received a response, tried to go back, still can't get the order right and still get major attitude. No more! I'll risk being late for work and go out of my way to the other locations.
(2)
Mei.jun L.
A great go-to place for Starbucks coffee. The staff are friendly, and efficient in the mornings as well (the line moves pretty quickly, as expected). I get a tiny bit irked when I bring in my coffee mug to be filled; I find it a hit and miss, as I ask for them to pour it to a specified line and at times, it's not. Understandably, not many people come in bringing their own mugs, and they may not be used to the additional request (for the record, it's 10 cents off your order and you're helping to reduce waste :D) For studying, this place was renovated during the winter in time for the spring semester so that there are more tables and seats available, but it is still a challenge to find a good study spot, even on the weekends. The wifi is also rather slow (as most Starbucks in the city are). For drivers staying around the area, there is metered parking on Taylor, free parking on Loomis St towards Roosevelt, and on Roosevelt (watch the signs). For the morning rush, it takes me about 5-10 minutes to get through the line for coffee. There are areas around the street where I've seen people often put on their blinkers to grab and go (on both sides of the street). Overall, a great place to drop by to fulfill your coffee needs. For those not studying, the outside fountain makes a great place to sit down, chat with friends, and enjoy on a sunny day. (Being around the medical district, it'll be harder to find seating inside though, as it's more of a student-studying atmosphere, versus a location to hang out)
(4)
A. M.
Pretty much like any other Starbucks. Coffee and tea taste the same. It is packed with students, often sitting at tables for hours on end. Music is ungodly loud. Slooooooow wi-fi. When I'm looking for an extreme caffeine fix, I'm smart enough though to get in and get out.
(3)
Chris M.
Good service and a great atmosphere. Since there are a lot of students in the area, getting a seat can be a bit difficult at times.
(4)
Meera T.
A pretty good Starbucks for studying. Make sure you get there early because it can get pretty crowded. Also, the only outlets that work are in the big center table right when you walk in. Bring a sweater because it gets pretty cold in here. And be warned, the number of chatty loud college students is pretty high.
(4)
Tery L.
Could do with more lounge space, but does the trick. Good service, good coffee... and well, starbucks value (slightly overpriced as usual)
(3)
Greg V.
Stopped here for wife's coffee break as far as coffee shops go this one was above average for sure. She said coffee was a bit strong but good.
(4)
Dustin W.
Yet another star£ucks. What a joy. While the coffee and treats are generally decent, you have to live with the guilt of fueling a beast. Generally, I would rate this a three star, but the propensity for over the top hipsters and sheer magnitude and overabundance of police from every agency possible definitely guaranteed no greater than two stars. This place has more fuzz than the Easter bunny. Always crowded = generally flustered and often irritable staff. I don't blame them. Id hate life too if I had work here. Of note, it is extremely convenient, however Conti next door is cheaper, faster, friendlier, and tastier. Can't wait for the Keurig to be fixed.
(2)
Narasimha S.
My fav. starbucks location. Baristas are very friendly and helpful.
(5)
Mike H.
Great people watching place. Fills my caffeine "Jonesing" needs. Heavy student population. Hoping all the mental workouts going on here rubs off.
(4)
Adam D.
I love Starbucks. But this location's baristas aren't very streamlined. And, there's one girl with a huge chip on her shoulder or something; she hardly ever looks you in the eye or reciprocates kindness. I've been to this location at least 50 times, and am always rubbed the wrong way. Let's get some secret shoppers in here!
(2)
Amit G.
Liked this place. Good one to sit for an evening to hangout with some friends or to do some work on your laptop! Will recommend this place for sure!
(5)
Jesse S.
Easily one of the worst customer service teams in the city. The staff prefers to chat and have fun with each other. Customers are a mere annoyance to them.
(1)
Justyna N.
I ordered a simple tall cappuccino: it was literally 70% foam and 30% coffee. What a waste of money.
(1)
Darcy W.
Service was great! The barista's are on their game... I wonder how much coffee they must drink to be so happy that early? Haha I actually appreciate it! This morning a woman grabbed my skim latte instead of her tea... Ya I'm not sure how that happened either? The barista watched what happened and immediately I had a new drink. As my customer and I sat down we had 2 free drink coupons. Thank you that was very kind! Great neighborhood location!
(4)
Kevin F.
This location does a great amount of business. The one constant irritating drawback in my opinion is that like today they have a long line and one person on the register and only ONE person making the drinks. Two baristas would speed up the service as well as a second register.
(1)
Lydia N.
I come here regularly because it's the only Starbucks in this neighborhood, but it can be a less-than pleasant experience. There is one cashier who is especially rude to me every time, as if she has some sort of vendetta against me. I wish I could record the eye rolls and make a gif out of them--I'm sure it would end up on Buzz Feed for some reason. She also consistently forgets the food I order and gets upset when I ask about it 15 minutes later. The guys are all very friendly, but a couple tend to move very slowly. I only come here when I know I'm going to stay to do some work, otherwise it doesn't tend to be the quick in and out routine you find at most Starbucks. It can also be very full from all the students around here, so be aware that if you're expecting a guaranteed place to sit for a bit, especially with someone else, you may be out of luck.
(2)
Rachel M.
I decided to treat myself to a starbucks mocha frap before work today. As I was drinking it, I noticed a stringy substance. I pulled it out and it was a thick brown short hair (the color of the baristas hair)! I was so disgusted I threw out the coffee and called Starbucks. They told me there was nothing they could do about it and pretty much said I was out of the 8 dollars I had just spent there. Not to mention the dry and brittle marble loaf I had purchased. The man said I could come back in and they would remake the mocha for me, however I cannot leave work through the day and after that experience I don't think I want another drink from there. I asked for a refund and they said I needed to come in with my card. They did not take my name or number to get that completed for when I did come in. I also did not get a receipt for the purchase. So, I guess I can kiss that 8 bucks goodbye. I wouldn't recommend this location. I realize that this is only one bad experience, but it is enough for me to never go back.
(1)
Gaurang B.
It's been about 4 months I have been going there quite regularly. Every once in a while they run out of the blonde roast- pretty much doesn't matter what time of the day it is. One of the cashiers is so not polite and makes faces which has made this place sort of obnoxious for me. Only reason why I would give the second star at all is that their barista is pretty enthusiastic.. Funny and ironic how the person doing most work is nice and enthusiastic over the person who just has to press buttons! Also these guys are dead slow- even when they just have to hand out already made coffee.. Sigh.. it's the only starbucks in my neighborhood..
(2)
Claudia D.
My local Starbucks. The usual offerings. Excellent location across from the Italian American museum on Taylor. Free wifi, an assortment of pastries. The husband and I like the dark roast vente.
(3)
Rebecca L.
They never participate any deals. When the hazelnut macchiato just came to market and there was a deal to get a free tall hazelnut macchiato, and I think this is the only starbucks claims "I never heard of that deal". On April 22, which was the Earth's day. Starbucks website said "bring in a reusable mug or tumbler and get a free brewed coffee" . I went there with my mug and again, the staff said "we don't participate". How come you never participate any of the deals that the rest of starbucks in the US have? However, it's the only starbucks in university village, what can we do?
(1)
Beth C.
This Starbucks is in a great location and has a really friendly staff. I am glad they don't get upset and force the "Starbucks Lingo" down my throat when I order a small coffee and even make a great job of suggesting other drinks to try. It's usually a struggle to get a table here, being so close to UIC, students are constantly camping out and glaring at you if you make any louder than a whisper noises. Go to the library if you want quiet, this is a coffee shop and I am allowed to answer my cell phone in here. I was very impressed that even through Snowmageddon 2011 they stayed open. It would have been easy to close down like every other busniess on the block but they must have some dedicated employees to get here on time in a blizzard. Props.
(4)
Krsna V.
This encounter took place in February. I remember all the details as if it was recent. Me: Hi, May I have a large ice latte please? Barista (with a puzzled look on her face): A "venti" ice latte? Me: Yes, a "large" ice latte please. (I refuse to speak their stupid jargon.) Barista (giving me a sarcastic grin): It is too cold outside Me: Yes, I like my coffee cold and tea hot. You do not warm up your soda just because it is winter, do you?? And if you did, that would be pretty stupid. Barista: no response (startled look on her face) Me: And please do not correct me when I say "large ice latte". I refuse to use this stupid jargon. Now, may I please have my ice latte?? And then she goes behind the counter to make my latte. The latte was good and I had my caffeine fix for the day. Don't mess with me when I need my coffee.
(2)
Zach M.
Overall a great coffee shop with great service. Sometimes a long line and no seating but always worth going.
(4)
Tracy K.
I've found the baristas here to be really friendly, and whoops! They accidentally gave me an extra shot of espresso. I appreciate them asking questions about how I want my beverage prepared because if I haven't had my caffeine yet, my brain does not function. Holy lack of seating though.. but I guess that is what happens when everyone on campus comes here to study. Oh, and while this isn't specific to this location, their salted caramel hot chocolate (minus whipped cream, plus espresso shot!) is addictively delicious. Consider yourself warned!
(4)
Deedo F.
Someone needs to explain what a macchiato is to this place. I came on today for a badly needed short pickmeup and left with a 12oz cup of about 4 inches of steamed soy milk I had to scrape off layer by layer with s straw to get to the shot of espresso hiding below. .. so not worth it. Walked two doors down to the Italian deli for a real espresso. .. too bad they don't have soy or almond milk there, or I really would have had the perfect cup of coffee. Starbucks, thought coffee was your thing?
(2)
Liz J.
Always friendly service but it's the only Starbucks near by and being surrounded by a college campus expect a wait for your favorite Starbucks brew.
(4)
Diana S.
I love this Starbucks. Often times I come in I ask the baristas to invent something new-- yesterday I became addicted to my newest summer drink- venti iced caramel macchiato upside down with one pump of toffee nut- Holy GOD. Love the baristas, love the location, I'm going to miss living in this neighborhood!
(4)
O731 ..
The place is cool and all but they REALLY need to do something about that dude who stands outside there every morning selling papers. Makes coming here an annoying experience.
(1)
Amanda P.
The employees at this location have always been the friendliest I have encountered. The drinks also always taste the same, and as you would expect them. That is hard to find in a Starbucks location. My only complaint is that it seems like people camp out here all day and tend to set themselves up in the seats so that there is usually 1 person per every 2 or 3 chairs. Don't go hear expecting to find a place to sit or anyone to be polite enough to move for you.
(3)
Sandra T.
Starbucks is ok. When in a pinch I can pick up breakfast and lunch pretty cheap and healthy. I like their fair trade products. I don't like the fact that they changed the packaged good's containers. They were more eco friendly before, I don't know why they switched. The containers were recycled paper now they are mostly plastic.
(3)
Beth C.
This Starbucks is in a great location and has a really friendly staff. I am glad they don't get upset and force the "Starbucks Lingo" down my throat when I order a small coffee and even make a great job of suggesting other drinks to try. It's usually a struggle to get a table here, being so close to UIC, students are constantly camping out and glaring at you if you make any louder than a whisper noises. Go to the library if you want quiet, this is a coffee shop and I am allowed to answer my cell phone in here. I was very impressed that even through Snowmageddon 2011 they stayed open. It would have been easy to close down like every other busniess on the block but they must have some dedicated employees to get here on time in a blizzard. Props.
(4)
Jade C.
I live right next door to this place and am in there several times a week. Despite everyone saying how friendly the staff is here, I always find the people who work weekday mornings to be disinterested and grumpy. If you see the same person coming in all the time, it's a good idea to get to know them. It builds brand loyalty and would keep me coming back even though I don't even like Starbucks coffee that much. Often my drink is not made correctly. I am in here all the time, and my drink is really simple (americano with room). The same woman who made the same drink for me several days in a row failed to leave room for cream EVERY time. In general, the weekend crew is much friendlier. Anyway, it's convenient for me, but I've started walking down to Coffee Alley (the staff is even more incompetent, but at least they are friendly, and the coffee is better).
(1)
Diana Z.
I don't go to Starbucks very often, but with warm weather approaching, this location is a nice stroll away from home and provides a destination during spring time walks. Starbucks beverages being all the same to me, the high rating is based almost solely on the staff. This location has some great people working there. When my twenty three year old roommate tragically spilled her iced tea all over the ground outside, the staff understandingly gave her a new one free of charge. That's kindness! Also, when helping a costumer buying a coffee mug I overhead a staff member say, "I don't have any boxes, but I could give you three different bags," which I found hilariously helpful. Nice outdoor seating area and pleasant indoor ambiance makes the place an overall great Starbucks location.
(5)
Nafeesah A.
This was my first time visiting this location in the Little Italy neighborhood and I always passed by here, but never stopped by until one day after passing it for the 50th time I stopped in. The staff was really courteous and really helpful in getting your order right. I also liked how the place was clean and maintained well, but one glitch that didnt sit right with me was how they didnt put enough whipped cream on my frappachino and putting the carmel sauce in the cup. Other than that they get 4 stars for high professionalism and courteous and prompt service.
(4)
Bill W.
I know what you're thinking: it's a Starbucks, why are you reviewing it? The answer is, the staff at this one are especially friendly. Even when you're coming in at 10 minutes before closing and firing up the laptop. I'd give it 5 stars, but it's always full of people doing the same thing I am. I suppose that's not their fault, but still, it's hard to get a table! :)
(4)
Lauren T.
As far as Starbucks go I really like this one. The menu is predictable, like at any other Starbucks, and the coffee ok but what wins stars for me on this particular location is it's ambiance. My girlfriends and I used to come here once a week or so to study Human Anatomy or do homework in the mornings and were always happy with the quiet atmosphere with chill music playing in the background. The staff were very friendly and we got to know them well. It was definitely nice to walk in on a cold winter day and be greeted with friendly people, pleasant music, and the smell of coffee. The only reason I haven't been back recently is because I've moved out of the immediate area but I have to say my new Starbucks just can't compare.
(4)
John M.
I once was forced to go pick up a coffee at this place for my caffeine addict ex girlfriend. I went in and for a moment was actually enjoying myself. I almost forgot why I hate these places, then I saw a woman in line with a latte in one hand and a bag of poodle shit in the other. Never again.
(1)
Darius K.
not a big fan of Starbucks so I'm a little bias but it's in a convenient location and I enjoy pretending to be a student when I come here since it's so close to UIC but I also enjoy being done with undergrad and not having to study haha!
Christopher G.
This place is almost always a zoo. My experiences with service haven't always been the greatest. Not the best place to study. HOWEVER, they have great outdoor seating next to the fountains and Joe DiMaggio statue. You can watch the birds eat trash and run from the bees. There is usually a guy outside selling Streetwise magazine. Beware, he will try to hit on your girlfriend. Oh yeah, cold brew is good.
(3)Shriman S.
Way too crowded. Too many nearby coffee places that serve better, are quieter and have better coffee. Walked in for a cuppa on a Friday evening (in a quest to complete a presentation). Didn't work too well. Place was crowded with no place to sit. Decided to sit at the fountain place right outside. Cup served was standard Starbucks (no plus or minus point there) though I found the barista to be rather reserved (would expect friendlier service especially since it's a new customer). No questions were asked about further customizing the coffee. Order was quick (within 4-5 mins) and that's a plus as the cafe was busy. Overall, an average experience.
(3)Banu K.
very nice starbucks. full parking on street (with meter). we went and grabbed some kid vanilla mistos and adult mistos before the circus. nice service, they answered all my questions of the verismo, which i'm considering buying. we sat on the barstools in front of the window, the kids loved it. i like a smile and thank you and your welcome when we come to any starbucks, and this place did it. thank you!
(5)Debbie D.
This is the only Starbucks that is a convenient stop on the way to work, however they have run out if chances and I now go out of my way to stop at a different location and add about 15 minutes to my commute. My drink is always a skinny cinnamon dolce latte with whip. (The whip is what makes it so good! That first sip...aaaaah.) yet they never, ever put the whip on it. I always get "well you ordered it skinny." I have resorted to shouting the "with whip" part they still just ignore it. Either they don't write it on the cup or the barista doesn't read the cup. Then I get major attitude when I hand it back (eye rolls, snotty comments, etc). I've complained about this particular location, received a response, tried to go back, still can't get the order right and still get major attitude. No more! I'll risk being late for work and go out of my way to the other locations.
(2)Mei.jun L.
A great go-to place for Starbucks coffee. The staff are friendly, and efficient in the mornings as well (the line moves pretty quickly, as expected). I get a tiny bit irked when I bring in my coffee mug to be filled; I find it a hit and miss, as I ask for them to pour it to a specified line and at times, it's not. Understandably, not many people come in bringing their own mugs, and they may not be used to the additional request (for the record, it's 10 cents off your order and you're helping to reduce waste :D) For studying, this place was renovated during the winter in time for the spring semester so that there are more tables and seats available, but it is still a challenge to find a good study spot, even on the weekends. The wifi is also rather slow (as most Starbucks in the city are). For drivers staying around the area, there is metered parking on Taylor, free parking on Loomis St towards Roosevelt, and on Roosevelt (watch the signs). For the morning rush, it takes me about 5-10 minutes to get through the line for coffee. There are areas around the street where I've seen people often put on their blinkers to grab and go (on both sides of the street). Overall, a great place to drop by to fulfill your coffee needs. For those not studying, the outside fountain makes a great place to sit down, chat with friends, and enjoy on a sunny day. (Being around the medical district, it'll be harder to find seating inside though, as it's more of a student-studying atmosphere, versus a location to hang out)
(4)A. M.
Pretty much like any other Starbucks. Coffee and tea taste the same. It is packed with students, often sitting at tables for hours on end. Music is ungodly loud. Slooooooow wi-fi. When I'm looking for an extreme caffeine fix, I'm smart enough though to get in and get out.
(3)Chris M.
Good service and a great atmosphere. Since there are a lot of students in the area, getting a seat can be a bit difficult at times.
(4)Meera T.
A pretty good Starbucks for studying. Make sure you get there early because it can get pretty crowded. Also, the only outlets that work are in the big center table right when you walk in. Bring a sweater because it gets pretty cold in here. And be warned, the number of chatty loud college students is pretty high.
(4)Tery L.
Could do with more lounge space, but does the trick. Good service, good coffee... and well, starbucks value (slightly overpriced as usual)
(3)Greg V.
Stopped here for wife's coffee break as far as coffee shops go this one was above average for sure. She said coffee was a bit strong but good.
(4)Dustin W.
Yet another star£ucks. What a joy. While the coffee and treats are generally decent, you have to live with the guilt of fueling a beast. Generally, I would rate this a three star, but the propensity for over the top hipsters and sheer magnitude and overabundance of police from every agency possible definitely guaranteed no greater than two stars. This place has more fuzz than the Easter bunny. Always crowded = generally flustered and often irritable staff. I don't blame them. Id hate life too if I had work here. Of note, it is extremely convenient, however Conti next door is cheaper, faster, friendlier, and tastier. Can't wait for the Keurig to be fixed.
(2)Narasimha S.
My fav. starbucks location. Baristas are very friendly and helpful.
(5)Mike H.
Great people watching place. Fills my caffeine "Jonesing" needs. Heavy student population. Hoping all the mental workouts going on here rubs off.
(4)Adam D.
I love Starbucks. But this location's baristas aren't very streamlined. And, there's one girl with a huge chip on her shoulder or something; she hardly ever looks you in the eye or reciprocates kindness. I've been to this location at least 50 times, and am always rubbed the wrong way. Let's get some secret shoppers in here!
(2)Amit G.
Liked this place. Good one to sit for an evening to hangout with some friends or to do some work on your laptop! Will recommend this place for sure!
(5)Jesse S.
Easily one of the worst customer service teams in the city. The staff prefers to chat and have fun with each other. Customers are a mere annoyance to them.
(1)Justyna N.
I ordered a simple tall cappuccino: it was literally 70% foam and 30% coffee. What a waste of money.
(1)Darcy W.
Service was great! The barista's are on their game... I wonder how much coffee they must drink to be so happy that early? Haha I actually appreciate it! This morning a woman grabbed my skim latte instead of her tea... Ya I'm not sure how that happened either? The barista watched what happened and immediately I had a new drink. As my customer and I sat down we had 2 free drink coupons. Thank you that was very kind! Great neighborhood location!
(4)Kevin F.
This location does a great amount of business. The one constant irritating drawback in my opinion is that like today they have a long line and one person on the register and only ONE person making the drinks. Two baristas would speed up the service as well as a second register.
(1)Lydia N.
I come here regularly because it's the only Starbucks in this neighborhood, but it can be a less-than pleasant experience. There is one cashier who is especially rude to me every time, as if she has some sort of vendetta against me. I wish I could record the eye rolls and make a gif out of them--I'm sure it would end up on Buzz Feed for some reason. She also consistently forgets the food I order and gets upset when I ask about it 15 minutes later. The guys are all very friendly, but a couple tend to move very slowly. I only come here when I know I'm going to stay to do some work, otherwise it doesn't tend to be the quick in and out routine you find at most Starbucks. It can also be very full from all the students around here, so be aware that if you're expecting a guaranteed place to sit for a bit, especially with someone else, you may be out of luck.
(2)Rachel M.
I decided to treat myself to a starbucks mocha frap before work today. As I was drinking it, I noticed a stringy substance. I pulled it out and it was a thick brown short hair (the color of the baristas hair)! I was so disgusted I threw out the coffee and called Starbucks. They told me there was nothing they could do about it and pretty much said I was out of the 8 dollars I had just spent there. Not to mention the dry and brittle marble loaf I had purchased. The man said I could come back in and they would remake the mocha for me, however I cannot leave work through the day and after that experience I don't think I want another drink from there. I asked for a refund and they said I needed to come in with my card. They did not take my name or number to get that completed for when I did come in. I also did not get a receipt for the purchase. So, I guess I can kiss that 8 bucks goodbye. I wouldn't recommend this location. I realize that this is only one bad experience, but it is enough for me to never go back.
(1)Gaurang B.
It's been about 4 months I have been going there quite regularly. Every once in a while they run out of the blonde roast- pretty much doesn't matter what time of the day it is. One of the cashiers is so not polite and makes faces which has made this place sort of obnoxious for me. Only reason why I would give the second star at all is that their barista is pretty enthusiastic.. Funny and ironic how the person doing most work is nice and enthusiastic over the person who just has to press buttons! Also these guys are dead slow- even when they just have to hand out already made coffee.. Sigh.. it's the only starbucks in my neighborhood..
(2)Claudia D.
My local Starbucks. The usual offerings. Excellent location across from the Italian American museum on Taylor. Free wifi, an assortment of pastries. The husband and I like the dark roast vente.
(3)Rebecca L.
They never participate any deals. When the hazelnut macchiato just came to market and there was a deal to get a free tall hazelnut macchiato, and I think this is the only starbucks claims "I never heard of that deal". On April 22, which was the Earth's day. Starbucks website said "bring in a reusable mug or tumbler and get a free brewed coffee" . I went there with my mug and again, the staff said "we don't participate". How come you never participate any of the deals that the rest of starbucks in the US have? However, it's the only starbucks in university village, what can we do?
(1)Beth C.
This Starbucks is in a great location and has a really friendly staff. I am glad they don't get upset and force the "Starbucks Lingo" down my throat when I order a small coffee and even make a great job of suggesting other drinks to try. It's usually a struggle to get a table here, being so close to UIC, students are constantly camping out and glaring at you if you make any louder than a whisper noises. Go to the library if you want quiet, this is a coffee shop and I am allowed to answer my cell phone in here. I was very impressed that even through Snowmageddon 2011 they stayed open. It would have been easy to close down like every other busniess on the block but they must have some dedicated employees to get here on time in a blizzard. Props.
(4)Krsna V.
This encounter took place in February. I remember all the details as if it was recent. Me: Hi, May I have a large ice latte please? Barista (with a puzzled look on her face): A "venti" ice latte? Me: Yes, a "large" ice latte please. (I refuse to speak their stupid jargon.) Barista (giving me a sarcastic grin): It is too cold outside Me: Yes, I like my coffee cold and tea hot. You do not warm up your soda just because it is winter, do you?? And if you did, that would be pretty stupid. Barista: no response (startled look on her face) Me: And please do not correct me when I say "large ice latte". I refuse to use this stupid jargon. Now, may I please have my ice latte?? And then she goes behind the counter to make my latte. The latte was good and I had my caffeine fix for the day. Don't mess with me when I need my coffee.
(2)Zach M.
Overall a great coffee shop with great service. Sometimes a long line and no seating but always worth going.
(4)Tracy K.
I've found the baristas here to be really friendly, and whoops! They accidentally gave me an extra shot of espresso. I appreciate them asking questions about how I want my beverage prepared because if I haven't had my caffeine yet, my brain does not function. Holy lack of seating though.. but I guess that is what happens when everyone on campus comes here to study. Oh, and while this isn't specific to this location, their salted caramel hot chocolate (minus whipped cream, plus espresso shot!) is addictively delicious. Consider yourself warned!
(4)Deedo F.
Someone needs to explain what a macchiato is to this place. I came on today for a badly needed short pickmeup and left with a 12oz cup of about 4 inches of steamed soy milk I had to scrape off layer by layer with s straw to get to the shot of espresso hiding below. .. so not worth it. Walked two doors down to the Italian deli for a real espresso. .. too bad they don't have soy or almond milk there, or I really would have had the perfect cup of coffee. Starbucks, thought coffee was your thing?
(2)Liz J.
Always friendly service but it's the only Starbucks near by and being surrounded by a college campus expect a wait for your favorite Starbucks brew.
(4)Diana S.
I love this Starbucks. Often times I come in I ask the baristas to invent something new-- yesterday I became addicted to my newest summer drink- venti iced caramel macchiato upside down with one pump of toffee nut- Holy GOD. Love the baristas, love the location, I'm going to miss living in this neighborhood!
(4)O731 ..
The place is cool and all but they REALLY need to do something about that dude who stands outside there every morning selling papers. Makes coming here an annoying experience.
(1)Amanda P.
The employees at this location have always been the friendliest I have encountered. The drinks also always taste the same, and as you would expect them. That is hard to find in a Starbucks location. My only complaint is that it seems like people camp out here all day and tend to set themselves up in the seats so that there is usually 1 person per every 2 or 3 chairs. Don't go hear expecting to find a place to sit or anyone to be polite enough to move for you.
(3)Sandra T.
Starbucks is ok. When in a pinch I can pick up breakfast and lunch pretty cheap and healthy. I like their fair trade products. I don't like the fact that they changed the packaged good's containers. They were more eco friendly before, I don't know why they switched. The containers were recycled paper now they are mostly plastic.
(3)Beth C.
This Starbucks is in a great location and has a really friendly staff. I am glad they don't get upset and force the "Starbucks Lingo" down my throat when I order a small coffee and even make a great job of suggesting other drinks to try. It's usually a struggle to get a table here, being so close to UIC, students are constantly camping out and glaring at you if you make any louder than a whisper noises. Go to the library if you want quiet, this is a coffee shop and I am allowed to answer my cell phone in here. I was very impressed that even through Snowmageddon 2011 they stayed open. It would have been easy to close down like every other busniess on the block but they must have some dedicated employees to get here on time in a blizzard. Props.
(4)Jade C.
I live right next door to this place and am in there several times a week. Despite everyone saying how friendly the staff is here, I always find the people who work weekday mornings to be disinterested and grumpy. If you see the same person coming in all the time, it's a good idea to get to know them. It builds brand loyalty and would keep me coming back even though I don't even like Starbucks coffee that much. Often my drink is not made correctly. I am in here all the time, and my drink is really simple (americano with room). The same woman who made the same drink for me several days in a row failed to leave room for cream EVERY time. In general, the weekend crew is much friendlier. Anyway, it's convenient for me, but I've started walking down to Coffee Alley (the staff is even more incompetent, but at least they are friendly, and the coffee is better).
(1)Diana Z.
I don't go to Starbucks very often, but with warm weather approaching, this location is a nice stroll away from home and provides a destination during spring time walks. Starbucks beverages being all the same to me, the high rating is based almost solely on the staff. This location has some great people working there. When my twenty three year old roommate tragically spilled her iced tea all over the ground outside, the staff understandingly gave her a new one free of charge. That's kindness! Also, when helping a costumer buying a coffee mug I overhead a staff member say, "I don't have any boxes, but I could give you three different bags," which I found hilariously helpful. Nice outdoor seating area and pleasant indoor ambiance makes the place an overall great Starbucks location.
(5)Nafeesah A.
This was my first time visiting this location in the Little Italy neighborhood and I always passed by here, but never stopped by until one day after passing it for the 50th time I stopped in. The staff was really courteous and really helpful in getting your order right. I also liked how the place was clean and maintained well, but one glitch that didnt sit right with me was how they didnt put enough whipped cream on my frappachino and putting the carmel sauce in the cup. Other than that they get 4 stars for high professionalism and courteous and prompt service.
(4)Bill W.
I know what you're thinking: it's a Starbucks, why are you reviewing it? The answer is, the staff at this one are especially friendly. Even when you're coming in at 10 minutes before closing and firing up the laptop. I'd give it 5 stars, but it's always full of people doing the same thing I am. I suppose that's not their fault, but still, it's hard to get a table! :)
(4)Lauren T.
As far as Starbucks go I really like this one. The menu is predictable, like at any other Starbucks, and the coffee ok but what wins stars for me on this particular location is it's ambiance. My girlfriends and I used to come here once a week or so to study Human Anatomy or do homework in the mornings and were always happy with the quiet atmosphere with chill music playing in the background. The staff were very friendly and we got to know them well. It was definitely nice to walk in on a cold winter day and be greeted with friendly people, pleasant music, and the smell of coffee. The only reason I haven't been back recently is because I've moved out of the immediate area but I have to say my new Starbucks just can't compare.
(4)John M.
I once was forced to go pick up a coffee at this place for my caffeine addict ex girlfriend. I went in and for a moment was actually enjoying myself. I almost forgot why I hate these places, then I saw a woman in line with a latte in one hand and a bag of poodle shit in the other. Never again.
(1)Darius K.
not a big fan of Starbucks so I'm a little bias but it's in a convenient location and I enjoy pretending to be a student when I come here since it's so close to UIC but I also enjoy being done with undergrad and not having to study haha!
(3)