Recently, I decided to go to the Starbucks in Delafield to study for my upcoming tests and finish homework with a couple of friends. I have been there before as well for studying, relaxing, and socializing.

When you enter the shop, the atmosphere of the cafe is very modern. The walls are a mocha color, and there are approximately 10 small tables located (sometimes) uncomfortably close together all around 一 Some with comfy seats, a couple at normal table height, as well as a fairly-large tall one. But due to the size of the cafe, there aren’t that many places to sit. However, this is an advantage to the cafe making it fairly easy to stay focused while studying as well as trying to get your work done. A lot of other Starbucks are set up in the same fashion; limited tables with a modern tone.

Most of the time you see people working alone who take up larger tables, or there are groups of people meeting to work on their agenda therefore it cannot be guaranteed that you will have a spot to sit. If you decide you do want to do your work here and can find a spot to sit, you will not be pushed out of the cafe. The baristas are very generous and realize that you are using this as a time to work and are pleased with the surroundings. Then again, you raise their earnings so they don’t really have a reason to.

Ordering your drink (or meal) is what the cafe is known for. If you are a starbucks rewards member, you could place your order ahead of time and pick it up, or if you don’t mind waiting a couple of minutes, you can order it there. If you receive the wrong item, sometimes you may get to keep it as well as your correct drink, which is a bonus. This has happened to me once before, at a shopping mall in Brookfield. There was no hassle behind it, and the baristas were more than willing to correct their mistake.

On their menu, they have things like coffee, mochas, frappuccinos, lemonades, teas, sandwiches, salads, as well as additional bakery items. I ordered a Caramel Frappuccino, which never disappoints. Even though I am not a fan of coffee, this drink is an exception. To my benefit I am able to add more caramel sauce in my drink to hide the lingering taste of coffee grounds. Customers can do this with any other drink option as well and add more or less of an ingredient to any drink to allow your drink to meet your expectations. In addition, I also ordered a slice of banana nut bread, which is a warm thick slice of bread with nuts located on not only the crust but inside the bread as well. The taste was superb, however the price was questionable. But with the rich taste and texture, I think it’s worth it. In contrast, during previous visits I have ran into problems where they ran out of bread because they only have a limited quantity. This would be, in my opinion, the cafe’s food downfall 一 not having enough.

One thing I have noticed that when buying warm products, such as hot chocolate, is warmed to slightly over perfect temp, so it is capable of having a sip taken out of without burning your mouth.  In contrast, a downside to the menu is that the prices are very high, but with the quality of the drinks, sometimes, it can be worth it. The only time it is not worth it is when you’re buying something that doesn’t include as many ingredients; such as a lemonade or tea. The total can cost you above $3. In addition, another downfall is when ordering iced drinks. A majority of the cup is filled with ice; they fill the cup up with ice all the way to the top, and then pour your drink in, which makes it cold but last a minute long. In my opinion, you are getting less for your money. This goes for anything that isn’t blended, such as iced tea, iced coffee, etc.

Starbucks is more than just a coffee shop. It is a place that you can not only get your work done and relax, but have unusual tasty drinks that can be enjoyed by coffee lovers as well as non coffee lovers. The pleasant service and quiet atmosphere allows you to enjoy your experience there. Despite the competitive seating, limited quantities, high prices and unproportional drinks, the quality of the products are highly worth it. I would recommend this cafe as a peaceful spot to enjoy a nice drink, and get work done.