Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great tea selection
oChef » Starbucks – San Francisco
Starbucks - San Francisco
Photo from Starbucks
Starbucks at a glance
San Francisco Civic Center
- ☕ Café
$
Price per Person $1–$10
mentioned by 21 of the guests
#2283 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#155 Café out of 162 in San Francisco
Average
5.2 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
183
Reviews
42.6%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Friendly service
- Quality drinks
Frequently criticized
- Order errors
- High cost
The cafe Starbucks in San Francisco’s Civic Center neighborhood offers you a perfect spot to grab a quick bite. You’ll find a casual yet trendy atmosphere, making it an ideal place to relax or work.
Known for its great coffee, this location provides a welcoming experience whether you’re dining in or taking your order to go. Enjoy the convenience and quality you expect from a top-tier cafe.
Overview: Introducting Starbucks
Starbucks often delivers on quick service and a generally pleasant atmosphere, with many appreciating the convenience and the effort to maintain cleanliness. However, some experiences suggest inconsistencies, particularly with the overall vibe.
While the core offerings are often well-received, issues with drink order accuracy can be a point of frustration. Additionally, the perceived value for money is a recurring concern for a segment of customers.
Average
5.2
out of 10
183
Reviews
42.6%
Satisfaction
93
negative
12
neutral
78
positive
Looking at the overall picture, Starbucks receives an average 5.2 out of 10. This is reflected in a mixed customer satisfaction rate of 42.6%, indicating that while some patrons are content, a notable portion leaves feeling less than satisfied. This assessment is drawn from a substantial 183 customer opinions, with 93 negative pieces of feedback slightly outweighing 78 positive ones.
Diving deeper, Service (5.6) and Food (5.4) hover around average, suggesting a generally acceptable experience in these key areas. However, the Ambience (4.3) appears to be a weaker point, and Value (2.8) stands out as a significant area for improvement, with many expressing concerns about pricing.
What people like
- Efficient, friendly service
- Consistent coffee drinks
- Convenient location
What people don't like
- Inconsistent drink orders
- Poor perceived value
- Limited seating options
With a recommendation score of 5.2, Starbucks presents a somewhat mixed proposition. If you’re seeking a quick, reliable coffee fix with generally efficient service and appreciate a convenient spot, it often delivers.
However, be mindful of potential inconsistencies in your drink order and the overall value for your money. It might be worth trying if you’re nearby and need a familiar option, but don’t expect an exceptional experience every time.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Starbucks
Food (5.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 58% of the guests
When it comes to the food and drinks here, many customers have found things to love, with 21 positive remarks. Youll often hear praise for the great drinks, especially the cold, smooth, and creamy Nitro Cold Brew, and delicious Pistachio Lattes. The desserts and blonde roast hot coffee also get a nod for their quality.
However, the experience isnt always perfect, as reflected by an average 5.4 score and mixed 41.2% customer satisfaction, with 22 negative comments. Issues range from watery and tasteless drinks, missing cold foam or incorrect drink orders, to finding coffee grounds or even a long black hair in a sandwich. They also sometimes run out of popular items.
Food
51
Reviews
41%
Satisfaction
22
negative
8
neutral
21
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious drinks
- Quality coffee
- Tasty desserts
What people don't like
- Incorrect drink orders
- Foreign objects found
- Inconsistent quality
Often praised
- foodThe food was amazing
- Pistachio LattePistachio Latte is Great
- blonde roast hot coffeeThe blonde roast hot coffee never lets me down.
- coffee and sandwichThe staff were incredibly nice and eager to help the customers as fast as possible. I definitely recommend this location for your next coffee and sandwich if you're in the area 👍.
- coldIt was cold, smooth and creamy.
- creamyIt was cold, smooth and creamy.
- custom optionsadd all the custom options and have used my own cup and they get it perfect every time
- dessertsThe desserts are delicious
- drinkThe drink was awesome and if I do say so life changing.
- drinksdrinks are of the same high quality as usual
Frequently criticized
- coffeeThe coffee went in the trash it was nasty
- Kind barsoften run out of many things, like Kind bars
- Spindthriftoften run out of many things, like Spindthrift
- caramel amountMy experience has been consistently frustrating because my usual drink order is never made correctly. Every time I come, there's an issue: either my paid-for extra shot is missing, the amount of caramel is wrong, or the whipped cream isn't added. It feels like they make my drinks how they want to, rather than how I order them.
- coffee groundstons of coffee grounds in your cup
- cold foamEventually, the manager asked if we needed something, and we finally received our pup cup. Upon leaving, I discovered my paid-for cold foam was missing from my drink, with most of it in my friend's drink. The froth at the bottom of my drink was tasteless and unpleasant.
- double espresso nitro cold brewdouble espresso nitro cold brew had no espresso and tasted like chocolate milk
- drink orderMy experience has been consistently frustrating because my usual drink order is never made correctly. Every time I come, there's an issue: either my paid-for extra shot is missing, the amount of caramel is wrong, or the whipped cream isn't added.
- drinksstill watery and tasteless 😒
- extra shotMy experience has been consistently frustrating because my usual drink order is never made correctly. Every time I come, there's an issue: either my paid-for extra shot is missing, the amount of caramel is wrong, or the whipped cream isn't added. It feels like they make my drinks how they want to, rather than how I order them.
This spot seems to be a bit of a gamble when it comes to food and drinks. While some rave about delicious coffee and treats, others face frustrating inconsistencies like incorrect orders or quality issues. If you're feeling lucky, you might find a gem, but be prepared for potential hiccups.
Service (5.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 88% of the guests
The service here is a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5.6 indicating an average experience, and customer satisfaction sitting at a 48.9% mixed level. Many guests appreciate the friendly, professional staff and quick service, especially when pre-ordering. Baristas often go the extra mile, showing attention to detail and even remembering complicated orders, as noted in 44 positive opinions.
However, there are also 42 negative opinions highlighting significant issues. Customers frequently mention long waiting times and unresponsive staff, with some experiencing ignored special requests or a lack of apology for mistakes. Poor customer service and incorrect drink preparation are also recurring frustrations, contributing to the overall average sentiment from 90 total mentions.
Service
90
Reviews
48%
Satisfaction
42
negative
4
neutral
44
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, professional staff
- Quick, efficient service
- Baristas go extra mile
What people don't like
- Long waiting times
- Poor customer service
- Orders often incorrect
Often praised
- servicethe service there is always immaculate w/ a smile
- staffStaff at this particular location are always friendly and professional.
- baristasthe baristas do a great job at moving the line quickly and efficiently
- orderThe line can get long in the mornings, but the baristas do a great job at moving the line quickly and efficiently. They've never gotten my order wrong. ❤️
- speedMy experience at this restaurant was defined by its friendly service and very quick turnaround. While there's no indoor seating, I was able to eat quickly at the bar before heading out.
- BrendaI come to this Starbucks everyday and I couldn’t be more grateful you guy are on my way to a busy day at work in the office. 5 stars for Brenda who knows my order. Thanks girl 💕
- OrderingOrdering is usually fast
- StarbucksQuick and easy Starbucks
- appPersonally, I love Starbucks! The service is quick, and I regularly use the app, so I just arrive and pick up my order. The desserts are delicious.
- attention to detailappreciate the attention to detail
Frequently criticized
- staffI was told I had to order something else, and when I explained it was a pickup order, they insisted I ask for the pup cup three feet away at the pickup counter, not the register, despite no other customers being present and five employees working. After picking up my drinks, the staff avoided eye contact and seemed unwilling to help. Eventually, the manager asked if we needed something, and we finally received our pup cup.
- customer serviceIs it too much to ask for decent customer service
- employeesI love this Starbucks, but the employees aren't too intelligent. I made the mistake of dropping money in the Starbucks.
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was marked by poor service. I waited 45 minutes and never received my order.
- waiting timeMy experience at this restaurant was marked by poor service. I waited 45 minutes and never received my order. There was no apology offered.
- Starbucksthe filthiest and most unfriendly Starbucks
- apologyNo apology nothing
- baristaThe barista rolled her eyes the second we walk in
- baristasUnfortunately, we were turned away, as they no longer offer free water or pup cups for dogs. The two baristas working couldn’t give a consistent answer about when this policy changed, which added to the confusion. While this spot is convenient for me, I think I’ll look elsewhere—someplace a bit more welcoming.
- closing time30 minutes to closing time
If you're looking for quick service and friendly baristas who pay attention to detail, you might be pleasantly surprised. However, be prepared for potentially long waits and inconsistent customer service, as experiences can vary widely.
Ambience (4.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 37% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot has some bright sides, with 12 positive remarks highlighting its conveniently located position and wheelchair accessibility. Guests also appreciate the free wifi and efforts towards reusable cups. While the overall score sits at an average 4.3, there are definite perks for those on the go.
However, the atmosphere is a bit of a mixed bag, with a poor 33.3% customer satisfaction and 24 negative comments. Many found the lack of indoor seating and an unwelcoming atmosphere to be significant drawbacks, often mentioning cleanliness issues and difficulty with parking. It seems more suited for a quick grab-and-go than a relaxing visit.
Ambience
36
Reviews
33%
Satisfaction
24
negative
0
neutral
12
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Convenient location
- Wheelchair accessible
- Free Wi-Fi
What people don't like
- No indoor seating
- Unwelcoming atmosphere
- Cleanliness concerns
Often praised
- cleanlinessExtremely Clean
- Bay Area TransportationBay Area Transportation...its easy access..no doubt!!
- access to travel destinationsThe acess to travel destinations, airports,.shopping, and.even on Bay Area Transportation...its easy access..no doubt!!
- areathe area.seems maintained and well kept
- atmosphereAtmosphere:5
- barthere is a bar
- conveniently locatedThis location is currently set up for takeaway only, with no indoor seating and no table condiments available. The Starbucks is conveniently located at 10th and Market Street, across from the Market grocery store and near Twitter headquarters, the Bill Graham Theatre, and SF City Hall. I recommend a visit if you are near SF City Hall.
- free wifiLove the free wifi but it does shut off when the store closes
- reusable cupsserves in reusable byo TURN cups
- single use plasticgetting rid of single use plastic
Frequently criticized
- bathroomthere is no bathroom for customers at this location anymore
- indoor seatingMy experience at the Starbucks at Fox Plaza was for a quick order and go. This location is currently set up for takeaway only, with no indoor seating and no table condiments available. The Starbucks is conveniently located at 10th and Market Street, across from the Market grocery store and near Twitter headquarters, the Bill Graham Theatre, and SF City Hall.
- Starbucksthe filthiest and most unfriendly Starbucks
- atmospherethe atmosphere was a significant letdown
- beggars/hustlerssometimes beggars/hustlers which I don't think I've ever seen
- cafe with no seatingFeels strange having a cafe with no seating
- chairs on tablesMy experience at the restaurant was marked by a sense of being rushed out. It was 30 minutes before closing time, and the staff were already putting chairs on the tables, indicating they were eager to close up.
- cleanlinessThe store could be kept cleaner!
- freezing and windy outsideit's freezing and windy outside
- musicmusic loud
If you're looking for a quick stop with great accessibility and free Wi-Fi, this place might work for you. However, if you prefer to sit down, relax, or expect a consistently clean and welcoming environment, you might be disappointed.
Value (2.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 11% of the guests
When it comes to value, theres one small bright spot: some customers appreciate the loyalty programs available. Based on 6 customer remarks, this single positive point stands out, suggesting that for those who engage with these programs, there might be a glimmer of worth. However, the overall sentiment paints a different picture, with a 2.8 score indicating poor value and customer satisfaction sitting at a low 16.7%.
Many feel the price is too high, with comments like not worth at all and Starbucks costs way too much to waste money' being common. Issues around money and feeling short-changed, such as paying a lot for a partially filled item, are frequently mentioned in the 5 negative remarks.
Value
6
Reviews
16%
Satisfaction
5
negative
0
neutral
1
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Loyalty programs
What people don't like
- High price
- Poor value
- Small portions
Often praised
- loyalty programsLoyalty programs
Frequently criticized
- Starbucks costsStarbucks costs way too much to waste money.
- fiftyrefused because I had a fifty
- moneydont spend your money here its not worth at all
- money outside the doorask for money outside the door
- pricePaid almost 10 bucks for some that was not even halfway filled
If youre looking for great value, this might not be your best bet. With a very low score and customer satisfaction, many feel the prices dont match what you get, despite the presence of loyalty programs. You might want to consider if the cost is truly worth it for you.
How are the prices at Starbucks?
On average, you’ll spend around 10 per person – from 21 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $1–$10 category. For a Cafe, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.
Interestingly, most guests (15 out of 21) actually spend in the $1–$10 range, making it quite budget-friendly. However, a few diners opt for the $11–$20 or even $21–$30 options, showing there’s a bit of a mix.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 21 reviews.
See how this Cafe’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
We think the pricing feels quite fair for a Cafe, especially considering most guests spend in the lower range. It offers good value for a quick bite or casual meal.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Starbucks
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Exceptional Service and Points Reminder
My experience at the restaurant was excellent, primarily due to the barista who was beyond helpful with my complicated order. They even went the extra mile to ensure I used my ⭐ points, something I often forget and no other barista has ever mentioned. This level of attentiveness and service is truly appreciated.
- barista10
- complicated order9
- ⭐ points10
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
2
Disappointing Customer Service Experience
My experience at this restaurant was the worst customer experience ever. I asked for the washroom code for my friend while I was waiting in line to get a drink, but they wouldn't provide it until it was our turn and we paid the $5 fee. They showed no care or understanding of customer needs and refused to take feedback, insisting it was company policy.
This is not how other Starbucks locations treat their customers. I am very disappointed with this location.
- washroom code1
- customer needs1
- feedback1
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Reliable Coffee and Friendly Staff
My experience at this Starbucks was great! I love coffee, and this place never lets me down. The blonde roast hot coffee is consistently good.
Additionally, the staff at this particular location are always friendly and professional.
- blonde roast hot coffee9
- staff9
- professional9
Price per Person
- $1–$10
Visit Type
- Delivery
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Takeout
2
Pup cup chaos and cold foam fail
I ordered two drinks via mobile and requested a pup cup at the register upon arrival. I was told I had to order something else, and when I explained it was a pickup order, they insisted I ask for the pup cup three feet away at the pickup counter, not the register, despite no other customers being present and five employees working. After picking up my drinks, the staff avoided eye contact and seemed unwilling to help.
Eventually, the manager asked if we needed something, and we finally received our pup cup. Upon leaving, I discovered my paid-for cold foam was missing from my drink, with most of it in my friend's drink. The froth at the bottom of my drink was tasteless and unpleasant.
My friend had to go back to get it fixed, which left us irritated, late for work, and unable to give our pup her first pup cup.
- drinks5
- pup cup2
- staff1
- cold foam2
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Disappointing change in policy
I stopped by this location on a warm afternoon, hoping to grab something and get some water or a pup cup for my dog. Unfortunately, we were turned away, as they no longer offer free water or pup cups for dogs. The two baristas working couldn’t give a consistent answer about when this policy changed, which added to the confusion.
While this spot is convenient for me, I think I’ll look elsewhere—someplace a bit more welcoming.
- water2
- pup cups2
- baristas3
What Starbucks offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Transgender safespace
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Solo dining
- Breakfast
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Coffee
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Dessert
Service Options
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Delivery
- Dine-in
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
Is the Starbucks at Fox Plaza accessible for everyone?
Yes, this Starbucks location is designed with accessibility in mind. You will find a wheelchair accessible entrance, wheelchair accessible seating, and a wheelchair accessible restroom, ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests.
What dining options and atmosphere can you expect at this San Francisco Starbucks?
At this Starbucks in San Francisco’s Civic Center, you can enjoy a casual and trendy atmosphere. It offers dining options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dessert, making it suitable for various times of your day. You can also grab a quick bite or small plates.
How does Starbucks generally perform according to customer feedback?
Starbucks receives an average overall score of 5.2. Customers rate Service at 5.6 and Food at 5.4, both considered average. However, Ambience scores 4.3, and Value is notably lower at 2.8, indicating areas for improvement.
Is the service at Starbucks typically fast and friendly?
Many customers praise the service for being friendly and efficient, with baristas often moving lines quickly. However, some experiences mention unhelpful staff and long waiting time for orders.
What can I expect regarding the atmosphere and seating at Starbucks?
While some locations are noted for cleanliness and convenient access, many reviews highlight a lack of indoor seating and available bathroom facilities, sometimes leading to a less comfortable atmosphere.