It is another beautiful day out in New York City. So I decided to pay a visit to the neighborhood that has become my favorite area to go shopping, have lunch, or just simply walk around. You guessed it — welcome back to Chelsea.
The Starbucks on 16th Street and 8th Avenue was designed with NASCAR fans in mind. It functions like a racetrack, and is the perfect pit stop on your way to and fro. You walk in and steer to the left wear you order at the barista bar. Progress forward and pick up your drink at the end of the row. Need to use the restroom? Merge right. If not, then make a U-turn and face the creamer station. From there your back where you started and a few steps from the door.
The good thing about Starbucks such as these is that they are perfect for grabbing a quick cup on the go. The downside is that they don’t make the best sitting locations. Yes — there are stools lining walls here, but they’re condensed and highly populated. Since this one is directly on top of a subway terminal, it is clear who Starbucks was catering to when they opened this location.
The Good:
The Location… On the same corner as the A/C/E and L. And a plethora of shopping and restaurants in any direction.
The Design… Literally a rectangular track designed to get you in and out.
The Bad:
The Size… A small seating area with only high stool seating.
The Restroom… Just the one.
Barista Friendliness:
A true pit crew: fast and efficient.
Drink of Choice:
Tall Iced-Americano… Start with espresso. Just add water. A health conscious latte.
Overall Starbucks Rating:
Race on in.
Starbucks and the City 
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