Today happens to be my birthday. So naturally, I went to Starbucks to cash in on my Free Birthday Drink.
The free drink I receive each February 7th is one of my favorite perks of being such a Starbucks enthusiast, and since my birthday, I figured why not treat myself and go to one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city: Greenwich Village.
The Village is an area I can retreat to whenever bustling life in Hell’s Kitchen is wearing me out. The low buildings can create a calming — almost suburban — effect, and there are dozens of cafes, restaurants, and outdoor parks to wander through. From the entrance of this Starbucks, I can stare right into the famous Stonewall Inn, where the Stonewall Riots of ’69 sparked the gay rights movement and gay pride into history. Or I can take a short stroll west and find myself at the Christopher Street piers — but I’ll probably wait for the temperature to pick up again before I venture that way.
Right off the 1-Train, this Starbucks was always a dependable stop-and-go location when I lived in the area for a short 2-month spell. However, I never really found myself coming here for work or pleasure reading because of the simple fact that it was always crowded. I’d meet a friend here, we’d grab a coffee, then go to Washington Square Park or any of the other scenic areas that the Village has to offer. So you may not be afforded a seat at this location, but Greenwich Village is hospitable enough to house you anywhere.
As a gay man, Starbucks enthusiast, and aspiring New Yorker, I’m telling you that this is a must see Starbucks.
The Good:
The Location… Not only is it right off the 1-Train, but it’s proximity to Christopher Street makes it a must see location.
The Decor… It’s really a grand-looking Starbucks. The real brick architecture and tiled ceiling make this a unique store indeed.
The Bad:
The Set-up… It’s larger than normal size could really be utilized with more seating. All the table seating is pinched into the front by the door, and there’s an empty valley-like space separating it from the barista bar.
Restroom… Just one for both Men & Women and it generates quite the line.
Barista Friendliness:
They’ve always been super friendly.
Drink of Choice:
Iced-Grande White-Chocolate-Mocha — Oh Yes! — But only for my birthday.
Overall Starbucks Rating:
It’s prime location in Greenwich Village alone makes this an above-average Starbucks.
Starbucks and the City 
Happy Birthday!!!
Happy Birthday! I always enjoy Starbucks on my birthday, too. A delicious tradition!
Happy birthday! I love an iced white chocolate mocha, especially with a pump of peppermint. So good.