What better way to start another month of highly caffeinated blogging then to just jump right in. September was great, but October is one of my favorite months. Cool (not cold) weather, changing leaves, and — of course — Halloween. As usually, I have no idea what I want to be yet, but I’m sure that spark of creativity will hit eventually. And this year is especially exciting since Halloween was essentially cancelled in NYC last year due to Hurricane Sandy. Here’s hoping for a dry month!
October may also be the month where I switch back to hot coffee in the morning. Half my colleagues already have, and it’s only a matter of time before the cold weather forces me into it. Stay tuned.
Currently, I’m sipping my (iced) coffee at the Starbucks on 50th & Lexington. It’s directly above the 51st street 6 train and shaped like a a pentagon with angled windows facing 50th. One unique thing about this Starbucks is that it’s a Midtown Starbucks with outdoor seating. I never would have imagined such a thing exists. But here I sit.
I’d imagine the reason this Starbucks can afford outdoor seating is because this part of Midtown is much more business oriented and has virtually no tourists. So besides those looking to catch the 6 train, this location has a pretty moderate crowd. It also has a good amount of seating and a circular design that probably makes the morning rush much more organized than some of the cramped and narrow Starbucks here in NYC.
The Good:
The Seating… Plenty. A cushioned L-shaped bench, window seating, a communal table and even some tables outside away from the sidewalk.
The Design… This Starbucks is very clean-cut. Simple, circular and sparkling like it’s brand new.
The Crowd… Manageable. A short line and open seats here and there.
The Bad:
The Location… Nothing really in this part of Midtown but businesses and quick service restaurants.
The Restroom… Just the one.
Barista Friendliness:
Drink of Choice:
Grande Iced Coffee
Overall Starbucks Rating:
A Midtown-East Starbucks with just a pinch of outdoor seating.
Starbucks and the City 
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