For the love of coffee

It started with the smaller "venti" cups.

Then the new interiors in a couple of shops.

Now this:

photo from Starbucks

Really, why the need for reinventing? *sigh

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I was at Starbucks Harbour Square last night and the experience reminded me why I'm a "coffee shop" person. I ordered a venti hot white chocolate mocha with hazelnut and vanilla and the barista said, "still not over Toffee Nut latte?" I was kind of surprised because that combination was from Soan and I's Starbucks experiments (which you can read about here and here), didn't know it was actually the recipe for Toffee Nut latte! Coolness! I just smiled at the barista and nodded my head. He was about to hand me my drink when he hesitated and asked, "Would you like some toffee nut sprinkles on top?" I grinned ear to ear and nodded willingly. How thoughtful :)

This is one of the little things I like about Starbucks (or any other coffee shop), it's like being at home, everyone's so nice :) I especially like when baristas go out of their way and chat with you a little bit asking about your day or whatnots. Then there are also those times they offer you samples which you can actually hoard (if you play your cards right!) and even extremely rare cases they offer to give you free pastries to go with your coffee (true story!) Much more than the friendly feeling, I like hanging out in Starbucks because I find it extremely enjoyable to read books there. The combination of a good book and great tasting coffee just makes my day :)

Blah to brand capitalism. Who cares if the new logo is boring. At the end of the day, it always goes back to the overall coffee experience. And to date, Starbucks will always be my happy place.

At Starbucks, I'm Ninia-- just because having to spell Ninin every time is tiring