Starbucks in Waterloo

“This is the first Starbucks in Waterloo I've been to that isn't run-down. It's very clean, bright, and well taken care of. The staff are very pleasant and courteous. Reminds me of Starbucks you find around the world. I found out that it is privately owned which goes to show what a business should be like. Although an hour walk from my home, it will be my go-to Starbucks on my long walks. Bravo Zulu!“

“Was just at the mall a bit ago and figured what better way to end off a shopping trip than go to the Starbucks for a drink. Lovely atmosphere and employees. Had a friendly server I believe named Maya, She made me feel extremely welcomed. On top of her great personality, she also was very accommodating to my large and complicated drink order! Bless her. Definitely recommend and will be coming back.“

“I usually don't leave a review but this place is wholesome. I was having a rough day. I was tired and exhausted because of my work. Both two guys (Forgot their name) were very friendly and cheerful. They kept me engaged while I was there. I ordered strawberry creme frap venti and the guy working at the bar made my drink perfectly and even decorated the frap which eventually lifted my mood. Service was better than the original Starbucks. I have to visit this location often to meet those two guys. Keep up the good work guys.“

“Replying to Michael below:

I was there as well, and this is a pretty incomplete version of what actually happened.

The woman you’re referring to wasn’t just “confused” she was being openly aggressive and making racist comments toward the staff. That’s why she was asked to leave. She also has a history of this kind of behavior in the community (look up racist lady waterloo and see who pops up), so framing this as someone simply having a hard time really misses what people around you were actually dealing with.

Also, what you’re calling “laughing” didn’t come across that way in context. It looked a lot more like staff decompressing after a tense and uncomfortable interaction. When people are put in that position, they don’t just reset instantly. They also seperated that barista from the floor to have a moment afterwards.

It’s also worth recognizing how difficult those moments are for staff. When someone directs racist comments at them, it’s not just “a tough interaction”, it’s personal, it’s dehumanizing, and it’s something they still have to manage calmly in front of a room full of people.

It’s easy to judge a moment without full context, but this wasn’t staff making fun of someone, it was a team dealing with inappropriate, dehumanizing behavior and then trying to move forward, during what was clearly a busy day. The fact that they were able to keep things going and not have to pause service shows their incredible resilience and strength.

10/10 team, and service“

“Staff is very friendly, and attentive. My order is pretty much the same every morning and it’s not uncommon for my coffee to be waiting for me between entering the store and finding my seat, without ordering ahead. The baristas, including the manager, will often bring my order to the table, which is above and beyond.“

“This location is an absolute gem with a vibrant atmosphere that makes every morning feel like a fresh start. My latte was handcrafted to perfection, and the team’s infectious energy truly sets this spot apart from the rest. It’s the ultimate cozy nook in Waterloo for a caffeine boost and a guaranteed smile!“

“Jeet is an amazing employee who goes above and beyond. She asked if we wanted china mugs as I was with my European elderly parents and she figured that we would be staying and they love having china mugs! Then she offered to warm up the banana bread. Then she put a knife with the banana bread so we could easily share. She is clearly observant, smart and can anticipate what the customer wants.“

“Usually very busy, so wait times are understandable but they usually miss details of drinks (ex. Caramel drizzle). Customer service is good otherwise, but it’s a small location so it’s hard to pick up your drink and long lines to order.“