While I'm not a big "corporate coffee" drinker, I decided to stop by Starbucks after hearing about their half-off Frappuccino happy hour. There was a steady stream of people coming into the establishment at the start of Frappy Hour. This usually means a ridiculously long wait for coffee. The staff was on top of their game and kept the line moving. They also were very cheerful and remembered several of the regular customers by name. The service here was fantastic; almost made me think I was in a local shop. I ordered a venti (large) coconut Frappuccino, which is new to the menu. It cost around $2.30, which was more affordable than the usual price of $4.57. In comparison, local shops and McDonalds sell regular Frappucinos for $2.40. Five dollars for a drink is outrageous, and I doubt I'd come back after the Frappy Hour promotion ends.
(3)
Cynthia R.
Standard Starbucks, no more no less. Ample parking since its in the 'burbs. Has a few tables of outdoor seating. Crowd was a mix of St. E hospital workers, people reading the paper or working on their laptop solo, HS/college kids, and moms with young kids. Located close to the I-471 ramp.
(3)
Rob K.
Just another Starbucks. But smaller. Needs more seats. I'm not a moolatte carmello mockiatto mucho grande frappuchino whatchamacallit and how-do-you-spell-it guy so when I got to a place to participate the goofy coffee craze I'd like to be able to drop by butt in a chair as soon as I have my overpriced drink.
(2)
Foodie T.
The service here has been very slow lately. I've walked back out of the store more times in the last 3-4 months than in the 5 yrs or so I've been going here. I generally like the people working here, it's just that something is up with the long wait and -- sometimes -- the quality of the drinks.
(2)
Daria B.
I hate that starbucks always gets a bad rep. I think that not only is the coffee some of the best that I've tasted (after trying many, many independent coffee shops) but what makes the experience great are the Baristas. This location is definitely one to boast about. Great people and the atmosphere is wonderful to sit and do work or read a book. Free wifi makes this one of the better spots to get out of the house.
(5)
Darrin M.
While it could be just another Starbucks the staff here is great and it is a comfortable place to work. People watching offers a great work diversion if you are stuck on a task.
(4)
Katie W.
As far as Starbucks' go, I am really impressed by this one. Good accessible location, awesome baristas, very spacious with plenty of chairs and tables, and the temperature is optimal! I've been to many a Starbucks where I've had to sit there shivering while trying to get my work done. The only bad part is that the wifi is crap (hence 1 star off). My computer connected slowly, and my phone didn't even detect the network. But if you'd like to be free of internet distractions, then I guess it's a bonus!
(4)
Keith C.
I like this Starbucks a lot - the coffee and facility is on par or better than most other Starbucks I frequent. Often times you go into a Starbucks to relax for a few and just can't if you have claustrophobic tendencies - no problem here. This one is spacious and lacks the dense clutter that other Starbucks have. It really allows people to spread out and get comfortable (so much so that I think some patrons take advantage - like the one that brought his laptop and his 20 inch monitor in today). What is lacking in this Starbucks, in my opinion, is the conviviality that you get in a lot of other Starbucks. That type of atmosphere is spawned by the baristas and, despite the quality of the drinks they make, the baristas I've encountered just aren't into creating a special "feel good" atmosphere. It's a shame. This Starbucks has all the equipment - if only they could get the baristas to take a few baby steps and actually be nice. In most my visits here, the baristas seem more concerned about discussing their personal life behind the counter than acknowledging the customers.
(4)
Michelle W.
I am done with Newport Ky. Starbucks!!! ( the one on Grand Avenue next to graters ice cream )Every time I go there recently the people working there have just been RUDE!! They really need to give not all but most of the employees there a class in customer service!! I just went there after staying away from there because of the way I was treated the last few times I went,and the girl making my drink made it wrong. When I said something about it she grabbed it back very pissy and dumped it and did a crappy job remaking it.And I apologize to her...what was I thinking?? I think I'll just stick to going to target Starbucks in Newport or Crestview Starbucks. Obviously they have been taught how to treat customers (that are paying a lot for a drink ) nicely. I used to love going there and hanging out with family and friends,but the way it's been lately it's just uncomfortable there I only go there for convenience,because it's close to my home,but I guess I need to go out of my way for comfort and good customer service!! I'm sorry about the ranting on,but it's been happening to many times now to ignore it any more!!
(1)
Cindy G.
This is the best Starbucks I have ever been too! It just recently got renovated and the new graphics and interior are stunning. Super chic stainless steel fixtures, big comfy leather sofas, and great long community workspaces. I stopped in yesterday to work for a bit in between meetings and I was pleasantly surprised. Oh, and they have a killer special going on called "treat receipt" If you purchase a beverage before 2pm you can bring your receipt back after 2pm and get anything you want in a grande cup for $2 bucks! For example the lady said I could put five shots of espresso in the cup if I wanted and still only pay $2. I know, I know, it's a sin to cheat on my local lover Iris, but sometimes a girl has to do what a girl has to do to get her caffeine fix on. Clean, bright, and friendly location. I will be back!
(5)
Jane A.
I began to visit this Starbucks on my way to work and I have to say... I was excited to learn there was a Starbucks nearby. An actual Starbucks, not an adjunct inside of Target type-of-Starbucks. I've visited five times now and every time, I've been less than impressed. I will admit, I create my own order so it's not as simple as "I'd like a vanilla latte, thanks." However, it's really not all that complicated, there are four ingredients and I want it iced. I apologize ahead of time for the order and walk them through it. Point is, someone working as a barista should be prepared to take these orders. Every time, without fail, they get my order wrong. Even the time I ordered one of their own -- an iced vanilla macchiato -- the girl didn't ice it so I told her of her error, she then rolled her eyes at me -- as though serving me was annoying her -- and continued to talk behind the counter about how she couldn't believe it was only 10 a.m. and that she couldn't wait to leave. There are plenty of other Starbucks that are competent at taking requests so unfortunately, I'll be going elsewhere.
(2)
Erin K.
It's starbucks. I can't give too many stars to "the man", but as a chain it does provide me an easy place to get my morning caffeine (especially when i'm feeling exceptionally lazy and there is a drivethru). This particular Starbucks is located really close to where I work out, so it's super convenient for me to come over afterward and start my morning right. Workout plus coffee, can't go wrong with that combo!
(3)
Jessica H.
I gave them an EXTRA star because ONE lady who works there was extra helpful & nice to me the first time I went to that location.. I really wish I would have paid attention to her name & I haven't seen her since. I used to stop at a drive-thru Starbucks but my commute to work changed so this one is on the way now. All other experiences haven't been great, not bad but I miss my other Starbucks baristas... First, they're SOOOO SLOW at making drinks! -_- & most of the time they're only very friendly if you are one of their "regulars". I think there may be a retirement community nearby because lots of happy elderly folk fill the cafe in the morning & the baristas know them by name.
(3)
Sharon S.
I frequently go to this Starbucks location, It is in a convenient location and on my way to work. However, I am finding that the service has declined dramatically over the past few months. The wait time is ridiculous, it seems that the barista's are more interested in talking amongst themselves than they are serving customers. They are very rude and seemed to be annoyed with customers. My drink is NEVER right, I get the same thing every time and it is wrong 90% of the time. When I tell them it is wrong, they give me some lame excuse, or attitude. I have a long drive to work in the morning and like to drink my coffee on the way, however, lately I have been going to the location closer to work, although it adds an extra 10 - 15 minutes to my drive time, which is unfortunate because the Fort Thomas location is within walking distance from my home. How sad..... I think I have had enough of the same old same old from Fort Thomas and will take my business elsewhere.
(2)
La'Keyta H.
Carmel apple spice is my new fav. I normally go for the hot chocolate, which is still number one in my book. But this drink is warm apple cider with whipped cream and carmel drizzle, so sweet, warm and just awesome.
(4)
Sean B.
The line was a little imposing when I entered, but my fears were soon allayed when I managed to get up to the counter and place my order for a large iced coffee. Now if I had ordered a large coffee, the cashier would have taken my money, grabbed a cup, filled it up, and handed it to me. But adding ice is apparently when that job moves from something anyone can do to skilled labor. So my name gets written on a cup and placed in the ever-growing queue of cups that is stacking up behind the super bubbly but extremely deliberate barista. She lovingly dollops foam onto every cup. Embraces it one last time like a mother watching her baby get on the school bus for the first time. And then she hands it over to the waiting customer with a smile, "This is going to be your new favorite drink." It is almost an artform what she does. I say almost, because art isn't consumed--it's appreciated. And art doesn't get paid an hourly wage. These people, including me, just want our coffee so we can get to work on time. But we have to wait for even the simplest of drinks to be touched by the Artist. Another barista swoops in, returning from an short stint at the panini station, and I anticipate this operation kicking into high gear. But helping apparently consists of picking up each cup in the queue, reading its markings, and then setting it back down in line. Occasionally he finds a cup that has instructions he can at least partially fulfill. This cup is going to need syrup in it. He can do that. And so now the queue has some cups with sugar-free vanilla Torani syrup, white mocha, and chai tea squirts in them. The Artist now has more colors in her palette. Finally, Panini reaches my cup. Its instructions are a perfect match for his skill set. He scoops the ice... He pours the pitcher of coffee... He places my cup back into the queue. And I stare at it. "Pardon me," I say to Panini, "I believe that iced coffee is mine. I didn't order any syrups. You can just give it me." Panini smiles. It is the pained smile of the apprentice who just realized I don't appreciate the art of his Master. "I'm sorry," he says, "But that's not how we do things around here. I wouldn't want to upset someone who ordered their drink before you." And he returns to squinting at cups. This logic nearly makes my head explode. "So you are just going to make me stare at my finished order for 15 minutes," I say. Apparently this sentence disrupts the time-waste continuum at Starbucks, because everyone tilts up from their Blackberries, their iPhones, and their Angry Birds. The look at me and then at Panini. And he is exposed. "I'll tell you what," he says, "I'll give it to you this time. But just so you know for next time, that is NOT how we do things around here." I grab my coffee and turn to leave without a word. I'm not a fan of Jackson Pollock, but even I can appreciate the energy on the canvas. This, however, is NOT art. And there is no energy. And there will be no next time.
(1)
Dan T.
These people are the greatest! Always very happy to see you when you walk in and will have a conversation with you! The whole crew are very good at what they do!
Paige M.
While I'm not a big "corporate coffee" drinker, I decided to stop by Starbucks after hearing about their half-off Frappuccino happy hour. There was a steady stream of people coming into the establishment at the start of Frappy Hour. This usually means a ridiculously long wait for coffee. The staff was on top of their game and kept the line moving. They also were very cheerful and remembered several of the regular customers by name. The service here was fantastic; almost made me think I was in a local shop. I ordered a venti (large) coconut Frappuccino, which is new to the menu. It cost around $2.30, which was more affordable than the usual price of $4.57. In comparison, local shops and McDonalds sell regular Frappucinos for $2.40. Five dollars for a drink is outrageous, and I doubt I'd come back after the Frappy Hour promotion ends.
(3)Cynthia R.
Standard Starbucks, no more no less. Ample parking since its in the 'burbs. Has a few tables of outdoor seating. Crowd was a mix of St. E hospital workers, people reading the paper or working on their laptop solo, HS/college kids, and moms with young kids. Located close to the I-471 ramp.
(3)Rob K.
Just another Starbucks. But smaller. Needs more seats. I'm not a moolatte carmello mockiatto mucho grande frappuchino whatchamacallit and how-do-you-spell-it guy so when I got to a place to participate the goofy coffee craze I'd like to be able to drop by butt in a chair as soon as I have my overpriced drink.
(2)Foodie T.
The service here has been very slow lately. I've walked back out of the store more times in the last 3-4 months than in the 5 yrs or so I've been going here. I generally like the people working here, it's just that something is up with the long wait and -- sometimes -- the quality of the drinks.
(2)Daria B.
I hate that starbucks always gets a bad rep. I think that not only is the coffee some of the best that I've tasted (after trying many, many independent coffee shops) but what makes the experience great are the Baristas. This location is definitely one to boast about. Great people and the atmosphere is wonderful to sit and do work or read a book. Free wifi makes this one of the better spots to get out of the house.
(5)Darrin M.
While it could be just another Starbucks the staff here is great and it is a comfortable place to work. People watching offers a great work diversion if you are stuck on a task.
(4)Katie W.
As far as Starbucks' go, I am really impressed by this one. Good accessible location, awesome baristas, very spacious with plenty of chairs and tables, and the temperature is optimal! I've been to many a Starbucks where I've had to sit there shivering while trying to get my work done. The only bad part is that the wifi is crap (hence 1 star off). My computer connected slowly, and my phone didn't even detect the network. But if you'd like to be free of internet distractions, then I guess it's a bonus!
(4)Keith C.
I like this Starbucks a lot - the coffee and facility is on par or better than most other Starbucks I frequent. Often times you go into a Starbucks to relax for a few and just can't if you have claustrophobic tendencies - no problem here. This one is spacious and lacks the dense clutter that other Starbucks have. It really allows people to spread out and get comfortable (so much so that I think some patrons take advantage - like the one that brought his laptop and his 20 inch monitor in today). What is lacking in this Starbucks, in my opinion, is the conviviality that you get in a lot of other Starbucks. That type of atmosphere is spawned by the baristas and, despite the quality of the drinks they make, the baristas I've encountered just aren't into creating a special "feel good" atmosphere. It's a shame. This Starbucks has all the equipment - if only they could get the baristas to take a few baby steps and actually be nice. In most my visits here, the baristas seem more concerned about discussing their personal life behind the counter than acknowledging the customers.
(4)Michelle W.
I am done with Newport Ky. Starbucks!!! ( the one on Grand Avenue next to graters ice cream )Every time I go there recently the people working there have just been RUDE!! They really need to give not all but most of the employees there a class in customer service!! I just went there after staying away from there because of the way I was treated the last few times I went,and the girl making my drink made it wrong. When I said something about it she grabbed it back very pissy and dumped it and did a crappy job remaking it.And I apologize to her...what was I thinking?? I think I'll just stick to going to target Starbucks in Newport or Crestview Starbucks. Obviously they have been taught how to treat customers (that are paying a lot for a drink ) nicely. I used to love going there and hanging out with family and friends,but the way it's been lately it's just uncomfortable there I only go there for convenience,because it's close to my home,but I guess I need to go out of my way for comfort and good customer service!! I'm sorry about the ranting on,but it's been happening to many times now to ignore it any more!!
(1)Cindy G.
This is the best Starbucks I have ever been too! It just recently got renovated and the new graphics and interior are stunning. Super chic stainless steel fixtures, big comfy leather sofas, and great long community workspaces. I stopped in yesterday to work for a bit in between meetings and I was pleasantly surprised. Oh, and they have a killer special going on called "treat receipt" If you purchase a beverage before 2pm you can bring your receipt back after 2pm and get anything you want in a grande cup for $2 bucks! For example the lady said I could put five shots of espresso in the cup if I wanted and still only pay $2. I know, I know, it's a sin to cheat on my local lover Iris, but sometimes a girl has to do what a girl has to do to get her caffeine fix on. Clean, bright, and friendly location. I will be back!
(5)Jane A.
I began to visit this Starbucks on my way to work and I have to say... I was excited to learn there was a Starbucks nearby. An actual Starbucks, not an adjunct inside of Target type-of-Starbucks. I've visited five times now and every time, I've been less than impressed. I will admit, I create my own order so it's not as simple as "I'd like a vanilla latte, thanks." However, it's really not all that complicated, there are four ingredients and I want it iced. I apologize ahead of time for the order and walk them through it. Point is, someone working as a barista should be prepared to take these orders. Every time, without fail, they get my order wrong. Even the time I ordered one of their own -- an iced vanilla macchiato -- the girl didn't ice it so I told her of her error, she then rolled her eyes at me -- as though serving me was annoying her -- and continued to talk behind the counter about how she couldn't believe it was only 10 a.m. and that she couldn't wait to leave. There are plenty of other Starbucks that are competent at taking requests so unfortunately, I'll be going elsewhere.
(2)Erin K.
It's starbucks. I can't give too many stars to "the man", but as a chain it does provide me an easy place to get my morning caffeine (especially when i'm feeling exceptionally lazy and there is a drivethru). This particular Starbucks is located really close to where I work out, so it's super convenient for me to come over afterward and start my morning right. Workout plus coffee, can't go wrong with that combo!
(3)Jessica H.
I gave them an EXTRA star because ONE lady who works there was extra helpful & nice to me the first time I went to that location.. I really wish I would have paid attention to her name & I haven't seen her since. I used to stop at a drive-thru Starbucks but my commute to work changed so this one is on the way now. All other experiences haven't been great, not bad but I miss my other Starbucks baristas... First, they're SOOOO SLOW at making drinks! -_- & most of the time they're only very friendly if you are one of their "regulars". I think there may be a retirement community nearby because lots of happy elderly folk fill the cafe in the morning & the baristas know them by name.
(3)Sharon S.
I frequently go to this Starbucks location, It is in a convenient location and on my way to work. However, I am finding that the service has declined dramatically over the past few months. The wait time is ridiculous, it seems that the barista's are more interested in talking amongst themselves than they are serving customers. They are very rude and seemed to be annoyed with customers. My drink is NEVER right, I get the same thing every time and it is wrong 90% of the time. When I tell them it is wrong, they give me some lame excuse, or attitude. I have a long drive to work in the morning and like to drink my coffee on the way, however, lately I have been going to the location closer to work, although it adds an extra 10 - 15 minutes to my drive time, which is unfortunate because the Fort Thomas location is within walking distance from my home. How sad..... I think I have had enough of the same old same old from Fort Thomas and will take my business elsewhere.
(2)La'Keyta H.
Carmel apple spice is my new fav. I normally go for the hot chocolate, which is still number one in my book. But this drink is warm apple cider with whipped cream and carmel drizzle, so sweet, warm and just awesome.
(4)Sean B.
The line was a little imposing when I entered, but my fears were soon allayed when I managed to get up to the counter and place my order for a large iced coffee. Now if I had ordered a large coffee, the cashier would have taken my money, grabbed a cup, filled it up, and handed it to me. But adding ice is apparently when that job moves from something anyone can do to skilled labor. So my name gets written on a cup and placed in the ever-growing queue of cups that is stacking up behind the super bubbly but extremely deliberate barista. She lovingly dollops foam onto every cup. Embraces it one last time like a mother watching her baby get on the school bus for the first time. And then she hands it over to the waiting customer with a smile, "This is going to be your new favorite drink." It is almost an artform what she does. I say almost, because art isn't consumed--it's appreciated. And art doesn't get paid an hourly wage. These people, including me, just want our coffee so we can get to work on time. But we have to wait for even the simplest of drinks to be touched by the Artist. Another barista swoops in, returning from an short stint at the panini station, and I anticipate this operation kicking into high gear. But helping apparently consists of picking up each cup in the queue, reading its markings, and then setting it back down in line. Occasionally he finds a cup that has instructions he can at least partially fulfill. This cup is going to need syrup in it. He can do that. And so now the queue has some cups with sugar-free vanilla Torani syrup, white mocha, and chai tea squirts in them. The Artist now has more colors in her palette. Finally, Panini reaches my cup. Its instructions are a perfect match for his skill set. He scoops the ice... He pours the pitcher of coffee... He places my cup back into the queue. And I stare at it. "Pardon me," I say to Panini, "I believe that iced coffee is mine. I didn't order any syrups. You can just give it me." Panini smiles. It is the pained smile of the apprentice who just realized I don't appreciate the art of his Master. "I'm sorry," he says, "But that's not how we do things around here. I wouldn't want to upset someone who ordered their drink before you." And he returns to squinting at cups. This logic nearly makes my head explode. "So you are just going to make me stare at my finished order for 15 minutes," I say. Apparently this sentence disrupts the time-waste continuum at Starbucks, because everyone tilts up from their Blackberries, their iPhones, and their Angry Birds. The look at me and then at Panini. And he is exposed. "I'll tell you what," he says, "I'll give it to you this time. But just so you know for next time, that is NOT how we do things around here." I grab my coffee and turn to leave without a word. I'm not a fan of Jackson Pollock, but even I can appreciate the energy on the canvas. This, however, is NOT art. And there is no energy. And there will be no next time.
(1)Dan T.
These people are the greatest! Always very happy to see you when you walk in and will have a conversation with you! The whole crew are very good at what they do!
(5)