Coffee Shops near Johnson Creek

“4 stars on food because they’re out of pumpkin spice.
4 stars on atmosphere because the seating isn’t as comfortable as it could be or used to be.

Who bothers to write a review about Starbucks? I do, and I have a couple things to comment on that you may want to read. I’ll start with this particular store and then Starbucks as a whole.

This Starbucks is clean and efficient. The coffee is good and if you make a mistake on your order, they are gracious and make it again, the way you meant to order it and until you like it. That’s just the way they are. In my case, I screwed up my in app order and sent it to the Starbucks back in Indiana by my house. No problem, they fixed that and made me what I ordered. Since you now know I don’t live near this store, nonetheless, I’ve been here several times and have spent more than a few hours working on my laptop and drinking coffee here. The bathrooms are consistently clean, the servers are kind and pleasant and the baristas work quickly. I’ve seen them remake more than one coffee but, like I said, they made it as ordered, the buyer had made the mistake. I think this is remarkable. Lastly, I can’t say this about Starbucks in general, but from observation of this store, I’d say, their customer mix is 80% attractive females and 20% males and a very rare not so attractive person. It must be this area, back home the Starbucks customers aren’t as pleasant.

The only other thing I have to say about this location is they were out of the pumpkin spice flavoring. That’s probably because all Starbucks are out of Pumpkin spice, which is usually the case when a store I visit is out of something. If this isn’t the case, shame on them for running out of the best selling drink flavoring. But like I said, probably not the local store manager’s fault.

This leads me into my comments about Starbucks in general. Everyone knows, it’s sort of a byword, that Starbucks Coffee is expensive. If you’re trying to save money, you stop buying Starbucks which is why the chain suffers when the economy is down, people start by cutting out expensive coffee. With that said, Starbucks is actually a good value. You get high quality drinks but more importantly, you get a top notch place to drink it, with plenty of plugins for phones and laptops and a clean restroom. You’re not just paying for a drink, you’re renting a bit of temporary office space. Makes the price seem more reasonable now doesn’t it.

Starbucks has changed over time in this regard. They used to be more comfy, more soft furnishings and some private places to talk. The newer Starbucks have hard seats, maybe one long padded bench, and an open floor plan, but over all less accommodating comforts meant to get you to not stay longer then you can drink your coffee. They really don’t want to make it so you want to stay too long. Smart on their part but harder on my rear part. Caribou coffee always had more comfortable stores and their philosophy was that they wanted to be your third place; home, work and then Caribou. I would always choose a Caribou Coffee over Starbucks but sadly Caribou is regional and Starbucks is world wide so Starbucks is obviously doing something right.

Lastly, I want to talk about shortages of flavors that affect all the Starbucks. This latest shortage of pumpkin spice isn’t the first time they’ve universally “run out”. They’ve done it in the past on other popular flavors. Remember the s’more flavored drinks? I think it’s an artificial means to drive up the price, they intentionally limit the supply to increase demand. It’s bad business. If you’re going to sell it, get enough to meet demand. Personally, I’ve stopped buying from Starbucks when they do this. There are plenty of other coffee places. That’s just how I am. You should do the same. At the very least, make it clear to every Starbucks that is out of your favorite drink that you hold them personally responsible, be a Karen about it. Maybe they’ll get the message b“

“First time here. Passing through town, and wanted to stop for a hot beverage and something for breakfast. What a cute place. Love the combination of historical location, book store, and a coffee shop. There are two levels, and seating on each to read, eat or both. Has a nice casual/relaxed feel to the entire place.

Got greeted by friendly and helpful staff. They made a us an excellent London Fog Latte (little lavender, little vanilla, extra foam please), along with an Americana. For food we got a Cruffin (Croissant Pastry Dough cooked in muffin team with cinnamon sugar), the Garden Frittata, and a Blueberry Scone.

It took a little bit to get served, but everything was excellent. I especially enjoyed the scone that was perfect. Just the right amount of "dry crumble" with fresh blueberries.

For the bookstore part, there is plenty to look at, and peruse. There are curated display collections for many of the different areas including, childrens, politics, novels, etc.

Even the restroom was interesting, with numerous quotes on the walls to showcase a diversity of thought and humor.

Would definitely come back next time we are in the area.“

“My favorite place to get coffee and iced coffee, great coffee and great people �“

“I went to Simple Kup last week with two friends. The coffee and pastries were very good, and the barista was friendly and efficient. While we were there, quite a few people came in, and although a line developed, she served everyone quickly and with a smile. This is a great place!“

“Amazing service and always a great space to have my kiddos! Emily is great!!“

“Best coffee I have ever had. The atmosphere is really nice. The staff there are so kind and helpful. Was my first time going here today. It was awesome. Definitely will be back!“

“Best coffee shop in town! Lisa is awesome and the menu can't be beat. I am partial to the iced lattes and haven't found one I don't enjoy. Get the app and order ahead, it will be waiting when you get there. Also get the punch card for 1 free drink after 10 trips! Support your local business! ☕️“

“When you walk in, it smells amazing. Sufficient seating and cozy atmosphere. Coffee, tea and smoothies are on the menu. One recommendation: Sunset Cinnamon tea... it satisfies.... it's warm.... it's a dessert without any sugar added.“

“I have yet to have a bad meal here, and the wait staff is consistently good!“

“Exceeded my expectations for a local family restaurant. I've been here about 10 times since moving to lake mills and have yet to be dissatisfied. Great food, friendly staff & reasonable prices.“

“A Matcha latte with cold foam is always my go-to order and the way they made it at this location was INCREDIBLE! Best matcha latte I’ve ever had hands down.
The lady at the drive thru window was also super nice and happily conversated with me while waiting a minute for my order.“