Starbucks on Cambridge Street is located in the main part of Harrogate town centre, in the exterior…read morepart of Victoria Shopping Centre, as the only Starbucks in the town, and within quite a distance, it can get pretty busy at times too.
As a franchise-owned store, the prices do tend to differ slightly compared to the corporate-owned ones, sometimes it can be more, and sometimes it can be less. I don't really understand the logic behind that, but oh well.
It is located over two floors, the downstairs area is tiny and cramped, and can be quite comfortable due to the tables being small, close to each other, and people can be queuing right next to you, on the other hand, the upstairs area is much larger, more comfortable, relaxing and spacious, so do go up there if you can.
The baristas are pretty friendly and didn't mind answering a couple of questions and cleaning down a table when asked.
The availability of menu items could be improved, they ran out of Pumpkin Spice before Halloween, which was a shame. I was also told they don't always stock the Cold Brew as it isn't very popular, meaning I was able to get it one day, yet the following day I was told they wouldn't be replacing it for some time.
Drink quality is generally satisfactory, I enjoyed my Venti Toffee Nut Cream Cold Brew, which looked great and was made well, on my second visit, after being told they didn't stock Cold Brew anymore (In the space of one day?), I opted for a Venti Iced Eggnog latte, the barista seemed to be confused and had difficulty making it "Iced", and the taste reflected that the drink had no sweetness to it.
I do find it frustrating how this place closes rather early, they close at 6 pm, and close the indoor seating area, around one hour before then during the week, which is an hour earlier than Caffè Nero who are open (including the seating area) until 7 pm.
A great brand to have in the town centre, but being the only Starbucks in town and within a good distance, you just expect better. 3*
