Today I felt like trekking on down to the West Village. One of my favorite neighborhoods and former residence — briefly, but still.
I walked from Washington Square Park and cut southwest through the trendy portion and touristy areas. Where I ended up was the Starbucks on Hudson Street near Charlton. This portion of the Village is sometimes referred to as the Far West Village, and is a small business enclave within the neighborhood. If I couldn’t tell that by the well-sized business buildings, strategically placed lunch stops, and rushed footsteps hurrying the opposite direction from where I headed, it was made apparent by this location’s business hours.
It’s closes at 8pm each weeknight and is not open at all on Saturdays and Sundays. I was shocked at first. I mean, this location is large and beautiful. But who would be here to enjoy it on the weekends? Practically no body is here to enjoy it right now. Just like the Starbucks in the Financial District, there’s nobody that wants to stick around after working a full day’s work. If they need a pick-me-up after work, they’ll run in, but staying open past 8pm would be a poor business decision.
So here I thought I’d discovered my new weekend get-away to come and work on my computer in a large, vacant Starbucks, when all I really found was a tease. Still, its size, outlet availability, and the fact that it has two restrooms makes this a better location then most.
The Good:
The Crowd… There was barely anyone here when I arrived 30 minutes after business hours.
The Size… A very large location. Even the bar is larger than most.
Seating… Seating everywhere. In the front, in the back, at the bar… you could even squeeze more seating in if needed.
The Restrooms… Two, there are two!
The Bad:
The Hours… Closed on weekends and only open until 8pm on weekdays.
The Location… Slightly off the beaten path and pushed up close to the Hudson.
Barista Friendliness:
Drink of Choice:
Grande Iced Americano
Overall Starbucks Rating:
It’s tucked away and ready for company… during business hours that is.
Starbucks and the City 
You’re taking me back….