The Starbucks on 43rd and 9th is another victim of construction shielding draped around the exterior. That’s two in a row! I know NYC is forever changing — updating, evolving, improving (maybe?) — but at times it seems like the entire city is covered by one monumental construction awning.
Earlier this year, my street was being torn up in order to get new piping — or at least that’s what I assumed. For at least 2 weeks we would find a notice on our building’s door saying that we would be without water for an 8 hour period starting at 8am. No showers — no flushing toilets — just bottled water to brush your teeth with. Thankfully my gym membership allowed me to maintain a normal schedule.
I was reminded of this when I entered this Starbucks and noticed a sign on the door that stated the Starbucks will be closing at 8pm tonight and would resume operating hours tomorrow. Then, on top of that, the 1 restroom has an out of order sign on the door. Strike 2, I think. Then as I take in my surroundings a bit further, I spot the covers on the power outlets. Strike 3.
Since 2 of these things could just be happenstance flaws, I’m reserving some judgement. After all, I was able to grab a seat right away, and the environment is welcoming enough to keep me here while I write. And one of the best things about Starbucks in NYC… There’s surely another one around the corner.
The Good:
The Location… 9th Ave is well enough removed from Times Square and restaurants are everywhere.
The Crowd… It comes in waves, but it’s not too bad.
The Bad:
The Seating… Only a moderate amount of small tables and a tiny group table.
The Outlets… Most are covered up (I thought they all were) but I found 1 set open near the entrance-way.
The Restroom… One and it was out of order.
Barista Friendliness:
Drink of Choice:
Grande Iced Mocha… I think this is the first time I’ve had a mocha from Starbucks that wasn’t prefaced by the word “skinny.” Honestly, I can barely taste the difference.
Overall Starbucks Rating:
They could just be having an off day, so I gave them 2-Cups instead of just 1.
Starbucks and the City 
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