Time was I would go to Starbucks and do a variety of different activities: read, write, type, talk, etc…
During my undergrad, I took an entire online course in a Starbucks sitting area. After graduating, I took up astrology and bought and read several books on the subject in my favorite cafe. I studied for my GREs there and used it as a meeting place for several social engagements.
Now, it seems I go for the sole purpose of this blog. Sometimes I’m able to squeeze in some work — or heaven forbid, read a book — but mostly I’m scoping out the place/neighborhood. If this sounds like a complaint, it’s because it is. Luckily, I still have plenty of time to change my way and go back to why I fell in love with Starbucks in the first place.
The Starbucks I’m currently occupying is just south of Canal Street in a cross-section of Chinatown and TriBeCa; although characteristically, this neighborhood (and the Starbucks within) resembles SoHo much more than TriBeCa.
On the outside, the Starbucks on Walker and Broadway is covered in construction sheeting and swarming with crowds. On this inside, it is still pretty much swarming with crowds but much more visually appealing. Although dimly lit, this Starbucks has its perks, like exposed brick walls, tons of seating, and plenty of power outlets available for power hungry New Yorkers. Thankfully, this Starbucks is quite large because there are plenty of tourists beating down the door — even though most seem to come just to use the restroom.
The Good:
The Location… Directly south of the N/Q/R trains on Canal street and close to SoHo, Little Italy and other great neighborhoods.
The Size… A very deep Starbucks, almost like a cave — it just keeps going.
The Decor… I’m a sucker for exposed brick. This is a very authentic looking Starbucks.
The Bad:
The Crowd… This Starbucks may be just south of SoHo, but the crowd inside is just as bad.
The Restroom… Just one, with one helluva line.
Barista Friendliness:
Drink of Choice:
Grande Iced Coffee… I sure am going to miss these Treat Receipts when they’re gone.
Overall Starbucks Rating:
A Starbucks where Chinatown meets Tribeca meets SoHo.
Starbucks and the City 
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