I have actually worked at Starbucks for over a year now, and yet, even with my 30% discount off of any sbux product, I still go to The Last Drop over Starbucks, even though, there is a Starbucks a block closer to me than The Last Drop. Why? Here's why.\r
1. Their internet is faster than in my own apartment\r
2. No stupid T Mobile Hotspot fee's like at Starbucks, the internet there is free (while they prefer that you please buy something if you're going to use it, which is very fair)\r
3. The interesting, ecclectic array of tables and seating-that in itself is art\r
4. Their bathroom is like you are swimming in a mosaic painting, which, for those who drink coffee regularly, know that to have a cool bathroom is a nice bonus\r
5. They use a marzocco (manual) machine to pull their espresso shots as opposed to a verisimo (automatic-which is what all starbuck's have now switched to b/c they are more quick efficient)-I prefer this machine however, because the espresso shots come out tasting very smooth\r
6. Their array of homemade vegan and non-vegan treats, and toasted bagels and cream cheese\r
7. Their extensive HOURS!\r
8. The fact that not only is their staff nice, but they are nice to look at\r
9. Their support of artwork and music with their vast bullitan boards littered with flyers and walls with art by local artists\r
10. The people that come in there-if I don't see about 5 of my friends from my school, I usually end up making friends with whoever I'm sitting near-everyone is just very friendly and open\r
11. There are 2 levels, in my experience, upstairs is nice for homework, downstairs for groups of ppl.-but you decide\r
12. During the spring and summer, it's perfect b/c even being inside is like being outside\r
13. Great taste in music\r
14. sugar water for iced coffee and tea, and other more rare coffee accessories\r
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Cons:\r
1. only accepts cash\r
2. a bit mroe pricey than starbucks' full prices\r
3. very dim lighting\r
4. sometimes, the music is too loud to talk to others
Pros: atmosphere, baristas, espresso, art, space, variety, scene, internet
Cons: price, cash only, lighting
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