Starbucks Reserve

One-liner: An exquisite coffee experience definitive of Vancouver with a level of service seldom had at Starbucks <br/ Highlight: Siphon-brewed coffee <br/ Price per person: $5-$15 <br/ Would I go back? Yes.<br/ <br/ Check out my blog post for the full review!

The remodeling and expansion of this Starbucks has been for the better. Firstly, the ambiance is very modern and inviting for the average West Coast young person. Large windows let in a lot of light to the Main Street side seating area, while the 14th Avenue side seating area is left in little in the dark. The highlight of the entire establishment is the Reserve Bar, the focus of the location. While I was not attracted to it, I saw faces I would not usually see at the location to check out and sit at the Reserve Bar. I've also seen a lot of tourist activity at this location, which I hope was a previously set goal that the change achieved. The baristas are extremely pleasant to be around and can hold a conversation while making multiple drinks. The amount of skill displayed by the baristas make this location a must-see attraction more than a regular old coffee shop. However, other Starbucks' in Vancouver should not be compared to this one, since the goal of the two types seem to be different.<br/ <br/ <br/ Service: 4.5<br/ Ambiance: 5.0<br/ Product: 4.0

On May 9, 2017, Starbucks celebrated 30 years in Vancouver by opening the doors to its renovated Mount Pleasant location (Main 14th) – the first Western Canada store to feature an experiential Reserve coffee bar. If you have been to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Seattle,  then this new store is a take on the same concept, but without the roasting facility. Did you know that the first Starbucks store in Canada opened at the Seabus Skytrain Station in 1987? To celebrate the 30th anniversary, the fully renovated Mt. Pleasant location is the first store in Vancouver to feature an experiential Starbucks Reserve coffee bar.

This location is a more upscale version of your typical Starbucks. Your drink/food comes in more formal dining ware. They offer some higher quality coffee beans with different brewing techniques. Also offer alcohol in the evening. <br/ <br/ A very modern looking place that represents the Pacific Northwest. Decor is wood oriented. <br/ <br/ House Affogato is a big hit. Expresso with a scoop of ice cream served with sparkling water. <br/ <br/ Will definitely be back to try other coffees.

Finally, I had the time to try out the first starbucks reserve cafe in western Canada. It was so exciting stepping inside. The interior is very sheek and I loved their location on main street. <br/ <br/ I ordered the affogato which is a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a shot of espresso and I fell in love. This was very soothing in the hot weather. Next the nitro cascara cloud cold brew. **** lol. It's delivered a light and non bitter taste, smooth, refreshing. It was also amazing to look at, with each stir there was a cloud formation moving. They served these drinks with sparkling water... That was a nice surprise.<br/ <br/ Would I go back again? Yes<br/ Price is $5-10 per person but I definitely notice the level of quality. Service at this location is very good as well. They have a great team. I hope they get paid well, every single one of them had a positive attitude with efficient service.<br/