Starbucks - Albert Pike (Hot Springs)
I loved the location and the back of the building is shielded by large trees. Opened May 2021.
I've been here few times, but never had longer time to spend here, prior to this visit. I'm glad I was able to stay longer, get my work done and observe my surroundings.
ATMOSPHERE:
I liked their furniture layout. It made it feel like a cozy coffee shop. You will find throughout light or dark brown leather furniture to match the coffee beans natural colors. The wall color schemes reminded me of a coffee farm. It was inviting and bright LED lights throughout. In the daytime the natural sunlight makes the interior bright. They do have window shades, should you need to use them.
When you first walk in, to the left of the entrance is where most of your seating will be. The focal room has a large brown leather bench seating, with two tables, chairs and outlets beneath to charge your portable devices. Next to the bench there are three additional tables with six leather brown chairs.
Alongside the large windows you have four tables with eight chairs. To the right of the entrance you will find merchandise shelves. The order counter and Pick-Up counter stayed clean. Baristas did a great job keeping these areas clean.
BARISTAS:
Baristas did a good job here. They were attentive to each guest and I did not hear many customers complain about their drink orders. Hats off to the staff that works here and it's noticeable they are constantly learning and open minded to accommodate each customer.
A few times I walked up to the order counter to ask for a complimentary refill of hot coffee or tea, each time they were happy to assist and said, "We'll bring your drink to your table." It's a small gesture that speaks volume when a barista can bring your order to your table.
RESTROOMS:
Restrooms stayed clean. This location has a 3-in-1 faucet sink system that dispenses water, soap and hand dryer. Most of the Arkansas locations I've been to, Starbucks has these. I get that it might be "Good for the environment." But, it is counterintuitive when the dryer barely blows any air and you have to dry your hands multiple times since hardly any air is coming from the hand dryer.
Many of these locations also don't have paper towels, making it double counterintuitive. After you've washed your hands, you now have to go open the door handle. Most people know that not everyone will wash their hands after using the restroom, so, you literally just washed your hands, to get them dirty again.
WIFI & MUSIC:
WiFi worked good without any interruption. Music was good too. It stayed quite enough to hear and get worked done or talk to others.
PATIO:
Patio is small but it's nice because depending on where you sit, or face your chair(s), you get to look at the tall trees that make you feel like you're in nature. Patio offers seven tables with fourteen chairs. If the sun gets too bright for you, they have couple of patio umbrellas to shield you.
OVERALL:
I liked the location, atmosphere and the baristas. I would recommend this place and next time I'm in Hot Springs, I'm looking forward to returning here. read more