As far as the coffee goes, it's Starbucks.It's the McD's of the coffee world. If you are expecting to get a better quality of coffee as opposed to any other location please rest assured that they go to great lengths to assure it's the same coffee bean everywhere. Accept it for what it is. IMHO what makes/breaks a location are the people. While the Christmas Blend, Pikes Place Roast, Blonde, or whatever blend you prefer all come from a homogenous flavor of beans - preparation makes all the difference. I can live with coffee made from stale beans but leaving drip coffee on a heating element destroys the flavor. I have seen the regular staff at this location provide outstanding and exemplary customer service...to their friends. Since I am not counted among their list of friends I get crappy service just about every time I visit, about 3-4 times/month. [Why do I keep going back? It's close and convenient.] It is typical for the server to get my order wrong, pull the last bitter dregs of drip coffee that's been burnt beyond recognition, and occasionally just be ignored while they talk to each other or other guests. I feel special when they simply remember to say thanks. I could accept this as just how this store operates but I've seen them treat other people well! I don't think I come in with a poor attitude. But in the end , I'm sure I'll keep coming back and lowering my expectations.
(2)
Wesley Y.
The barista at this store are always friendly, and quick. Unlike other starbucks this one usually doesn't have a long line. Located next to the Flower hill Giant, there are a few tables and chairs outside. There are a lot of seats inside, and of course they offer free Wi-Fi. P.S register your starbucks card to become green/gold member reap the benefits of free refills on certain drinks, and 10% off or buy 12 drinks get one free!
(4)
Tammy D.
This place is great. It's out of the way and they always know what to say to make my day.
(4)
Tam T.
Absolutely no complaints! This Starbucks is the closest one to my house. It is never overly crowded and never have I waited in line for more than five minutes. The staff is friendly which is rare nowadays.
(5)
Marianne S.
It's my new favorite place. I just wish the wifi was free. Little tip though if you have a gift card that you use, you can sign up for free Internet.
(4)
Jody M.
Quick, friendly service, what more could a coffee lover ask for!!
(5)
Stephen B.
Nice crew, never too crowded and good coffee.
(3)
Marie G.
The barista's at this Starbucks location are fantastic. They pay attention to what you order and make the drinks right. And, should the drink not be satisfactory, there is no issue from them about remaking a drink.
(5)
Mariella B.
Starbucks is Starbucks to me besides Safeway Starbucks...they are fake-me-out Starbucks. I may be spoiled because I used to be a barista at the old Starbucks in Gaithersburg Shopping Center so I kinda expect good service and good coffee where I go. But that isn't always the case. All Starbucks have a mix of baristas some are a-holes who hate you for walking in and making them work, while others are just doped up on espresso that it would be a pleasure to make you a drink. This particular shopping center was created by a foolish designer who created the parking lot in an odd way. But I'll live and I have no choice because it's the closest one to me, the store its self is a decent size but when it's packed in the morning the line tends to go right into tables. If there was a Dunkin Donuts or Mayorga Coffee shop closer to my route to work than I would go there. Sometimes I need my Caramel Macciato fix and during summer months nothing is more refreshing than their green ice tea or selection of frappacinos. Staff hasn't made an impression on me. Come here a couple times to study when I couldn't at home because of an ever luring DVR. Because of the amount of churches down the street there seems to be a constant Bible study going on here so the comfy couches are usually taken. Like I said Starbucks is Starbucks.
(3)
S B.
The last several times I went to this Starbucks, I asked for vanilla latte and got hazelnut. Then when I point it out, the barista could care less. I can see once, but come on... AND the staff, which used to be friendly and awesome, is now rude and nonchalant. I will not get my cuppa joe here anymore.
(1)
Fenny L.
I'm a weekend Starbucks warrior. Monday thru Friday, I'm too busy battling bedhead, finding a pair of pantyhose that doesn't have a run in it, and getting to work only 30 minutes late, to stop by the Starbucks for the morning joe. However come Saturday...ah, that's when I can wake up sometime after the butt-crack of dawn (any time after noon), and leisurely stroll into my neighborhood Starbucks, resplendent in my rumpled jammies and stinky morning breath (I know, I'm so hot - how does my husband stand it?!), for a venti soy latte, extra hot, no foam. And the Flower Hill Starbucks has everything one would expect or wish from their barista. They are all fairly young and attractive, with a nice alternative edge to them. This is especially important when one is a 30+ old married lady whose days of partying like a rockstar until 5am are long gone (yet yearns for them so!). These baristas not only look like that they've partied until 5am before stumbling into work, but they also have a nice crunchy granola air about them - as if assuring me that although they are nursing the beginnings of a long hangover, the hangover is due to imbibing organic and pesticide free microbrewed vodka from a free-trade distillery. Despite the looming hangover, they are always fast, efficient, and answer my monosyllabic grunts with a cool-kid nod (very important to my yuppy-yearning-for-the-days-of-old self-esteem). My latte is always the way I like it - deliciously hot and reviving (BTW, I switched to soy lattes because it made me feel slightly granola-y too. Green is the new black after all). Braced with this cup of perfectly brewed life-water, I can now brave the rest of my Saturday with a semi-cheerful air. However, Sundays...oh sad sad sad Sundays! Avoid this Starbucks on Sundays! It's not the fault of the baristas but of the location. The Flower Hill Starbucks is right off of Muncaster Mill Rd - also known to the locals as "God's Highway". There are no less then 8, yes 8, churches within a 2 mile radius. All of whom seem to encourage their congregation to convene at this Starbucks - MY Starbucks to tie up the lines, hog all the tables - and fill the air with so much Jesus, that one can hardly breathe. Now, I loves me a good bible-thumpin' revival as much as the next guy...but please, not before I've had my first cup of coffee for the day! And why at MY Starbucks? I feel that this just goes to prove that *someone* "up-there" is out to get me. Really. So in a nutshell, on Saturdays, this Starbucks is a haven of caffienated ambroisia. On Sundays, unless you would like an extra shot of the Holy Trinity in your coffee, avoid at all cost.
(4)
Megan P.
All the baristas at this Starbucks are awesome! Patty is my favorite. I've been to many Starbucks in DC, Bethesda, Rockville and I find it hard to find competent baristas nowadays.... This Starbucks understands what I want and they deliver.... and I never have to explain what I'm talking about! Another review mentioned the issues on Sundays with the church crowd... This bothers me also, I try to avoid Muncaster Mill on Sundays... But I don't blaim Starbucks for being popular.
(5)
Thy T.
I love this Starbucks! The staff are very friendly and never mess up on my drinks
(4)
Collins K.
I got this cup so I can have coffee the whole month of january anytime. It is fabulous. Thanks to that staff who made me knew about it.
(4)
Nicole P.
There is nothing positive to say about this Starbucks except that it is the closest one to my home. Which makes it convenient. I've been here a few times because, as I mentioned, it's near my home. I have never not had to wait in a line. There is always a line. Maybe there are not staffing properly? This morning, I had the pleasant experience of... waiting in a long line. Then, when I requested a small (excuse me, tall?) cup of their Holiday Blend coffee (seeing as it is December 13), I got a weird look... the guy behind the counter (cashier! could not have been a barista!) says "huh?" A small cup of your holiday blend, please. "What, like just regular coffee?" Yes, just a regular cup of your Holiday Blend Coffee, please. "Oh. We don't have that this morning." I'm sorry, but honestly, I was under the impression that they offer the Holiday Blend daily during this time of year. Okay. Fine. Annoying, but whatever. Okay, I'll take the house blend or whatever regular coffee you have brewed this morning. And can I have a reduced fat turkey bacon sandwich? "Oh, I'm not sure if the turkey sandwiches are reduced fat," (walks around to the front of the refrigerated display case to inspect the sandwiches) "No, we don't have a turkey sandwich." No, I mean your hot breakfast sandwich. "Hot? We don't have an oven here." What?? Don't ALL starbucks have the hot breakfast sandwiches??? No? Ugh. My favorite coffee which is only offered a couple of months through the year was not brewed this morning. And they don't have breakfast sandwiches? This is not like any other Starbucks I have been to. STANDARDS, PEOPLE!! **edit 12/17/07** I've come across a few starbucks which are currently not offering the holiday blend. As it turns out, they are out of stock. As in, the warehouse is out of stock. So, right now, no one's getting it... Still doesn't change my rating. Don't run out. Period.
(2)
Jennifer F.
Not bad. I have been coming here for many years and the staff is truly humble. They have messed up my order once but they were very quick to fix the problem and apologetic. No biggy. Everyone makes mistakes. ****Not only did they fix my drink but they also gave me a pass with a "free drink for your next visit". How sweet!!!! This store is very busy, so make sure that you're ready to order when you're up next. The staff tends to change every year. Their old staff (about 2 years ago) was great! Very humble, flexible, fun, and spunky! They always came up with (STRONG) drinks for me that weren't on the menu, and they always wrote it down so that they had it ready for my next visit. I was a regular for sure. Those were the days where I worked next door and purchased a coffee at six in the morning, every singleeeee day! I give them 4 stars because of their new staff. Their new staff is very... Nonchalant. They tend to rush your order, they don't focus on the customers questions and they seem bothered at times. I feel that this store has potential to do so much MORE!! .. but something about the management isn't cutting it for me. Overall, this Starbucks is always going to be my #1 store. It's three minutes from my house and it's next to Giant (grocery store).
(4)
Annie R.
Everyone at this Starbucks is great. Always a good attitude. They know the regular customers by name and remember what you order and how you like it. Bathroom is always clean and well maintained. What more could you ask for.
(5)
Chanelle B.
My favorite place before work ! Gets my day started! Nicest people get my order right every time
(4)
Mary C.
This Starbucks is definitely a cut above the usual stores in the chain. Employees seem very content and happy here; managers seem to be around when needed. I've been going to this location for quite a while -- I think they opened in the late 90's. Realistically I can't eat most of the food here except for the almonds and they're one of the few Starbucks that seems to keep them in stock. When they're out at the register, they offer to go look in their store room. They are patient and offer suggestions for folks. This place is a mix of commuters stopping in for a quickie, County cops taking a break, Bible study groups, and parents whose kids are in the nearby Kicks Karate. Parking is easy and pretty much available. Really they've managed to give a local flavor to a national chain.
(4)
Melissa M.
I never have to wait long or return drinks whenever I goto this location. All of the staff always seem happy and love to joke around. I also enjoy playing chess while I sip on coffee.
(5)
Pierre D.
**Full disclosure, while I always opt for the mom and pop cafe, I have been a Starbucks gold card member since 2011. Notably, this is the first time I have felt it worthwhile to review a location.** The pleasure of finding a unique location in a corporate chain can sometimes feel like you're discovering a diamond in the rough. However, this little gem shines in service. The team at this location manages to make both myself and my wife enjoy our commute everyday. The location is very clean, well lit, and I have never (not even once!) been greeted and served with anything but the best customer service. One morning in a haze of, well, being up too early, my wife asked the barista for whatever it is that she usually gets. Without missing a beat the barista whipped up her best and made my dewy eyed wife smile in appreciation. I am a black coffee or Americano type, so I can't personally speak to the barista skills at play here, but my wife swears by the location. Much like the customer service their skills with steam and grounds don't leave anything to want. Tl;dr - Diamond in the rough in an otherwise interchangeable corporate chain
(4)
Janine G.
I've been here 3 times so far. Decent service, nothing exceptional. 2nd time I was here they were closed due to no hot water. they did however have regular hot coffee for free!
(3)
Jason P.
Great experiences here, most importantly they always get my drink right, and the baristas are friendly!
(4)
Kelly M.
The people here are really nice and this is absolutely my favorite Starbucks to go to!
(5)
Kyle M.
The staff at this Starbucks are exceptional in their service and their coffee knowledge. Ana the store manager helps make this Starbucks a warm and inviting place for people in the community. Everything here has a personal touch. Not to mention, the drinks are made with consistent quality.
(4)
Ally G.
My saviour back in High School. Quick and the staff here is super nice :)
(3)
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Address :18240 Flower Hill Way
Gaithersburg, MD, 20879
Dave C.
As far as the coffee goes, it's Starbucks.It's the McD's of the coffee world. If you are expecting to get a better quality of coffee as opposed to any other location please rest assured that they go to great lengths to assure it's the same coffee bean everywhere. Accept it for what it is. IMHO what makes/breaks a location are the people. While the Christmas Blend, Pikes Place Roast, Blonde, or whatever blend you prefer all come from a homogenous flavor of beans - preparation makes all the difference. I can live with coffee made from stale beans but leaving drip coffee on a heating element destroys the flavor. I have seen the regular staff at this location provide outstanding and exemplary customer service...to their friends. Since I am not counted among their list of friends I get crappy service just about every time I visit, about 3-4 times/month. [Why do I keep going back? It's close and convenient.] It is typical for the server to get my order wrong, pull the last bitter dregs of drip coffee that's been burnt beyond recognition, and occasionally just be ignored while they talk to each other or other guests. I feel special when they simply remember to say thanks. I could accept this as just how this store operates but I've seen them treat other people well! I don't think I come in with a poor attitude. But in the end , I'm sure I'll keep coming back and lowering my expectations.
(2)Wesley Y.
The barista at this store are always friendly, and quick. Unlike other starbucks this one usually doesn't have a long line. Located next to the Flower hill Giant, there are a few tables and chairs outside. There are a lot of seats inside, and of course they offer free Wi-Fi. P.S register your starbucks card to become green/gold member reap the benefits of free refills on certain drinks, and 10% off or buy 12 drinks get one free!
(4)Tammy D.
This place is great. It's out of the way and they always know what to say to make my day.
(4)Tam T.
Absolutely no complaints! This Starbucks is the closest one to my house. It is never overly crowded and never have I waited in line for more than five minutes. The staff is friendly which is rare nowadays.
(5)Marianne S.
It's my new favorite place. I just wish the wifi was free. Little tip though if you have a gift card that you use, you can sign up for free Internet.
(4)Jody M.
Quick, friendly service, what more could a coffee lover ask for!!
(5)Stephen B.
Nice crew, never too crowded and good coffee.
(3)Marie G.
The barista's at this Starbucks location are fantastic. They pay attention to what you order and make the drinks right. And, should the drink not be satisfactory, there is no issue from them about remaking a drink.
(5)Mariella B.
Starbucks is Starbucks to me besides Safeway Starbucks...they are fake-me-out Starbucks. I may be spoiled because I used to be a barista at the old Starbucks in Gaithersburg Shopping Center so I kinda expect good service and good coffee where I go. But that isn't always the case. All Starbucks have a mix of baristas some are a-holes who hate you for walking in and making them work, while others are just doped up on espresso that it would be a pleasure to make you a drink. This particular shopping center was created by a foolish designer who created the parking lot in an odd way. But I'll live and I have no choice because it's the closest one to me, the store its self is a decent size but when it's packed in the morning the line tends to go right into tables. If there was a Dunkin Donuts or Mayorga Coffee shop closer to my route to work than I would go there. Sometimes I need my Caramel Macciato fix and during summer months nothing is more refreshing than their green ice tea or selection of frappacinos. Staff hasn't made an impression on me. Come here a couple times to study when I couldn't at home because of an ever luring DVR. Because of the amount of churches down the street there seems to be a constant Bible study going on here so the comfy couches are usually taken. Like I said Starbucks is Starbucks.
(3)S B.
The last several times I went to this Starbucks, I asked for vanilla latte and got hazelnut. Then when I point it out, the barista could care less. I can see once, but come on... AND the staff, which used to be friendly and awesome, is now rude and nonchalant. I will not get my cuppa joe here anymore.
(1)Fenny L.
I'm a weekend Starbucks warrior. Monday thru Friday, I'm too busy battling bedhead, finding a pair of pantyhose that doesn't have a run in it, and getting to work only 30 minutes late, to stop by the Starbucks for the morning joe. However come Saturday...ah, that's when I can wake up sometime after the butt-crack of dawn (any time after noon), and leisurely stroll into my neighborhood Starbucks, resplendent in my rumpled jammies and stinky morning breath (I know, I'm so hot - how does my husband stand it?!), for a venti soy latte, extra hot, no foam. And the Flower Hill Starbucks has everything one would expect or wish from their barista. They are all fairly young and attractive, with a nice alternative edge to them. This is especially important when one is a 30+ old married lady whose days of partying like a rockstar until 5am are long gone (yet yearns for them so!). These baristas not only look like that they've partied until 5am before stumbling into work, but they also have a nice crunchy granola air about them - as if assuring me that although they are nursing the beginnings of a long hangover, the hangover is due to imbibing organic and pesticide free microbrewed vodka from a free-trade distillery. Despite the looming hangover, they are always fast, efficient, and answer my monosyllabic grunts with a cool-kid nod (very important to my yuppy-yearning-for-the-days-of-old self-esteem). My latte is always the way I like it - deliciously hot and reviving (BTW, I switched to soy lattes because it made me feel slightly granola-y too. Green is the new black after all). Braced with this cup of perfectly brewed life-water, I can now brave the rest of my Saturday with a semi-cheerful air. However, Sundays...oh sad sad sad Sundays! Avoid this Starbucks on Sundays! It's not the fault of the baristas but of the location. The Flower Hill Starbucks is right off of Muncaster Mill Rd - also known to the locals as "God's Highway". There are no less then 8, yes 8, churches within a 2 mile radius. All of whom seem to encourage their congregation to convene at this Starbucks - MY Starbucks to tie up the lines, hog all the tables - and fill the air with so much Jesus, that one can hardly breathe. Now, I loves me a good bible-thumpin' revival as much as the next guy...but please, not before I've had my first cup of coffee for the day! And why at MY Starbucks? I feel that this just goes to prove that *someone* "up-there" is out to get me. Really. So in a nutshell, on Saturdays, this Starbucks is a haven of caffienated ambroisia. On Sundays, unless you would like an extra shot of the Holy Trinity in your coffee, avoid at all cost.
(4)Megan P.
All the baristas at this Starbucks are awesome! Patty is my favorite. I've been to many Starbucks in DC, Bethesda, Rockville and I find it hard to find competent baristas nowadays.... This Starbucks understands what I want and they deliver.... and I never have to explain what I'm talking about! Another review mentioned the issues on Sundays with the church crowd... This bothers me also, I try to avoid Muncaster Mill on Sundays... But I don't blaim Starbucks for being popular.
(5)Thy T.
I love this Starbucks! The staff are very friendly and never mess up on my drinks
(4)Collins K.
I got this cup so I can have coffee the whole month of january anytime. It is fabulous. Thanks to that staff who made me knew about it.
(4)Nicole P.
There is nothing positive to say about this Starbucks except that it is the closest one to my home. Which makes it convenient. I've been here a few times because, as I mentioned, it's near my home. I have never not had to wait in a line. There is always a line. Maybe there are not staffing properly? This morning, I had the pleasant experience of... waiting in a long line. Then, when I requested a small (excuse me, tall?) cup of their Holiday Blend coffee (seeing as it is December 13), I got a weird look... the guy behind the counter (cashier! could not have been a barista!) says "huh?" A small cup of your holiday blend, please. "What, like just regular coffee?" Yes, just a regular cup of your Holiday Blend Coffee, please. "Oh. We don't have that this morning." I'm sorry, but honestly, I was under the impression that they offer the Holiday Blend daily during this time of year. Okay. Fine. Annoying, but whatever. Okay, I'll take the house blend or whatever regular coffee you have brewed this morning. And can I have a reduced fat turkey bacon sandwich? "Oh, I'm not sure if the turkey sandwiches are reduced fat," (walks around to the front of the refrigerated display case to inspect the sandwiches) "No, we don't have a turkey sandwich." No, I mean your hot breakfast sandwich. "Hot? We don't have an oven here." What?? Don't ALL starbucks have the hot breakfast sandwiches??? No? Ugh. My favorite coffee which is only offered a couple of months through the year was not brewed this morning. And they don't have breakfast sandwiches? This is not like any other Starbucks I have been to. STANDARDS, PEOPLE!! **edit 12/17/07** I've come across a few starbucks which are currently not offering the holiday blend. As it turns out, they are out of stock. As in, the warehouse is out of stock. So, right now, no one's getting it... Still doesn't change my rating. Don't run out. Period.
(2)Jennifer F.
Not bad. I have been coming here for many years and the staff is truly humble. They have messed up my order once but they were very quick to fix the problem and apologetic. No biggy. Everyone makes mistakes. ****Not only did they fix my drink but they also gave me a pass with a "free drink for your next visit". How sweet!!!! This store is very busy, so make sure that you're ready to order when you're up next. The staff tends to change every year. Their old staff (about 2 years ago) was great! Very humble, flexible, fun, and spunky! They always came up with (STRONG) drinks for me that weren't on the menu, and they always wrote it down so that they had it ready for my next visit. I was a regular for sure. Those were the days where I worked next door and purchased a coffee at six in the morning, every singleeeee day! I give them 4 stars because of their new staff. Their new staff is very... Nonchalant. They tend to rush your order, they don't focus on the customers questions and they seem bothered at times. I feel that this store has potential to do so much MORE!! .. but something about the management isn't cutting it for me. Overall, this Starbucks is always going to be my #1 store. It's three minutes from my house and it's next to Giant (grocery store).
(4)Annie R.
Everyone at this Starbucks is great. Always a good attitude. They know the regular customers by name and remember what you order and how you like it. Bathroom is always clean and well maintained. What more could you ask for.
(5)Chanelle B.
My favorite place before work ! Gets my day started! Nicest people get my order right every time
(4)Mary C.
This Starbucks is definitely a cut above the usual stores in the chain. Employees seem very content and happy here; managers seem to be around when needed. I've been going to this location for quite a while -- I think they opened in the late 90's. Realistically I can't eat most of the food here except for the almonds and they're one of the few Starbucks that seems to keep them in stock. When they're out at the register, they offer to go look in their store room. They are patient and offer suggestions for folks. This place is a mix of commuters stopping in for a quickie, County cops taking a break, Bible study groups, and parents whose kids are in the nearby Kicks Karate. Parking is easy and pretty much available. Really they've managed to give a local flavor to a national chain.
(4)Melissa M.
I never have to wait long or return drinks whenever I goto this location. All of the staff always seem happy and love to joke around. I also enjoy playing chess while I sip on coffee.
(5)Pierre D.
**Full disclosure, while I always opt for the mom and pop cafe, I have been a Starbucks gold card member since 2011. Notably, this is the first time I have felt it worthwhile to review a location.** The pleasure of finding a unique location in a corporate chain can sometimes feel like you're discovering a diamond in the rough. However, this little gem shines in service. The team at this location manages to make both myself and my wife enjoy our commute everyday. The location is very clean, well lit, and I have never (not even once!) been greeted and served with anything but the best customer service. One morning in a haze of, well, being up too early, my wife asked the barista for whatever it is that she usually gets. Without missing a beat the barista whipped up her best and made my dewy eyed wife smile in appreciation. I am a black coffee or Americano type, so I can't personally speak to the barista skills at play here, but my wife swears by the location. Much like the customer service their skills with steam and grounds don't leave anything to want. Tl;dr - Diamond in the rough in an otherwise interchangeable corporate chain
(4)Janine G.
I've been here 3 times so far. Decent service, nothing exceptional. 2nd time I was here they were closed due to no hot water. they did however have regular hot coffee for free!
(3)Jason P.
Great experiences here, most importantly they always get my drink right, and the baristas are friendly!
(4)Kelly M.
The people here are really nice and this is absolutely my favorite Starbucks to go to!
(5)Kyle M.
The staff at this Starbucks are exceptional in their service and their coffee knowledge. Ana the store manager helps make this Starbucks a warm and inviting place for people in the community. Everything here has a personal touch. Not to mention, the drinks are made with consistent quality.
(4)Ally G.
My saviour back in High School. Quick and the staff here is super nice :)
(3)