Starbucks is opening hundreds of premium stores where the cheapest coffee is $4 we visited one
"Are you a coffee lover?" the barista asked as I ordered a $4, 12-ounce coffee from Starbucks Reserve, the company's new upscale store that serves premium coffee — made in the Seattle roastery — at a high price.
The Manhattan location is one of 500 set to open soon. The store features an advanced brewing system, chic furniture and artwork, and exclusive, limited-time coffee for sale.
"This is Starbucks on crack," a recent Yelp reviewer said. I went to the Starbucks Reserve in Manhattan to see what this fancy version of Starbucks is like.
It was a journey to get to Starbucks Reserve in Chelsea. It's located on 26th Street, between 10th and 11th avenues. As I approached the shop, I wondered why it would be situated here of all places in Manhattan. It's not close to any subway or bus stops.
When I entered the store, it all started to make sense — it matched the neighborhood it's in. Chelsea is known for its art galleries, and as I surveyed the scene, it felt more like I was in an art studio that a coffee shop just happened to be in. The walk-down entrance made me feel as if I was entering somewhere exclusive or elite place.
The Starbucks Reserve menu features premium, limited-time blends — which makes it expensive. I was lost on where to start for my order. Thankfully, the barista was very helpful in explaining to me the differences among the blends.
I went with the Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Chelba, which the barista told me is filled with floral aromas and lemon-pepper notes. She made it using the Clover brewing system that, according to the company, "lets baristas craft a single cup of perfectly brewed coffee with exquisite balance, depth of flavor, and aroma."
As I waited for my coffee, I took in the scene. It's chic, modern, and classic with plenty of options for lounging and outlets for charging devices.
It has artwork for purchase on the walls, which is what initially made me feel like I was in an art gallery rather than a coffee shop.
The area is spacious with exposed brick, cement floors, sofas, benches, and lecture-style seating. Although it was crowded when I visited, it was quiet — relaxing even. There wasn't a rush or a wait as experienced in typical Starbucks stores. That might have to do with its secluded location.
As for the actual $4.36, 12-ounce coffee ... I think it's worth it. The blend I chose has a very bold taste, but it's not harsh. I could tell it was of good quality. I don't personally like Pike Place roast by Starbucks because, to me, it tastes burnt and it's unenjoyable. In contrast, the Starbucks Reserve is strong, yet smooth.
Is Starbucks Reserve the future of Starbucks?
In my opinion, it's a way for Starbucks to reach customers who are snobby about their coffee. Going to the café felt like a treat.
Although the pricey coffee is enjoyable and satisfying, it's not realistic as something I would indulge in as part of my daily routine. It's good to know that the location also offers items from the typical Starbucks menu, such as lattes and pastries.
I would definitely go back if I knew I would spend time there as a place to get work done while sipping high-quality coffee that would keep me awake. It has a relaxed vibe, common to most nonchain coffee shops. Definitely worth a trip for coffee connoisseurs.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7o8HSoqWeq6Oeu7S1w56pZ5ufony0wMCrma6bm6h6s7HSnqmvnV2nsre1xLBka2hha3pz