Pint-sized Starbucks are like a double edged sword. On the one-hand, they’re small so seating is limited and they can resemble a cramped elevator during rush hours. But one thing they have going for them is that most people tend to get their caffeine fix then move on. Perhaps it’s a case of claustrophobia, but most people don’t linger in the smaller Starbucks whether there’s seating available or not. This opens those empty seats up for those looking to read, write, work or just surf the web with some added background noise.
At least that is the case at this mini-Starbucks in Gramercy on 15th & 3rd. It’s so small that it doesn’t have a restroom available to the public, yet there is still myself and 3 others using this space to take care of some business. Others are coming and going, but no more than half the seats are ever taken. The only foreseeable problem I see is what happens when this iced red eye I’m drinking makes me need a restroom… So basically this is a Starbucks with a limited visitation time.
I strongly considered giving this Starbucks a 1-cup rating, but it has a certain character that made me hesitate. The seating is limited, true, but it is organized in all the right places — pushed toward the front and away from the line and milk station. Also the fact that their is barely a crowd to speak of helps out. Although, I can’t say what this location is like during the morning rush.
The Good:
The Crowd… People come and go but there’s rarely a line and always open seats.
The Seating… There’s not much but most of it is placed in this cute L-shaped seating area that allows you to look out into the street.
The Bad:
The Size… A very small location.
Power Outlets… Only one in the whole place.
Restroom… None for public use.
Barista Friendliness:
Drink of Choice:
Grande Iced Red Eye
Overall Starbucks Rating:
Small but not lacking in character.
Starbucks and the City 
Leave a Reply