Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great tea selection
oChef » Starbucks – San Diego
Starbucks - San Diego
Photo from Starbucks
Starbucks at a glance
San Diego Clairemont
- ☕ Café
$
Price per Person $1–$10
mentioned by 10 of the guests
#717 out of 755 places to eat in San Diego
#64 Café out of 65 in San Diego
Average
4.4 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
72
Reviews
31.9%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Friendly staff
- Delicious drinks
- Roomy atmosphere
Frequently criticized
- Inaccurate orders
- Overpriced items
- Limited seating
The cafe Starbucks in San Diego’s Clairemont neighborhood offers you a perfect spot to relax or grab a quick bite. You’ll find this casual cafe is renowned for its great coffee, making it an ideal destination whether you’re starting your day or need an afternoon pick-me-up.
With a trendy yet welcoming atmosphere, it’s a convenient choice for your daily coffee ritual.
Overview: Introducting Starbucks
Starbucks often shines with its friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are adept at recommending delicious drinks . The general atmosphere is frequently noted for being roomy, contributing to a comfortable stop.
Yet, some patrons encounter issues like incorrect drink orders and concerns over overpriced milkshakes . The practical setup of some locations, particularly the lack of seating , can also be a point of contention.
Average
4.4
out of 10
72
Reviews
31.9%
Satisfaction
44
negative
5
neutral
23
positive
Overall, Starbucks receives a 4.4 score, placing it in the average range. However, Customer Satisfaction stands at a lower 31.9% , indicating a notable gap between general perception and customer happiness.
This assessment is drawn from 72 customer opinions, with 23 positive remarks and 44 negative ones. Delving deeper, Service (4.8) registers as average, often praised for its attentive staff, though some experiences note a lack of promptness.
Food (4.2) also lands in the average category, with enjoyable beverages sometimes overshadowed by incorrect drink orders . The Ambience (4) is similarly average, offering a pleasant feel but often lacking practical seating .
Value (2), however, is a clear area for improvement, frequently cited for being overpriced .
What people like
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff
- Delicious, creative drinks
- Pleasant, roomy atmosphere
What people don't like
- Inaccurate drink orders
- Overpriced menu items
- Limited seating/facilities
With a 4.2 recommendation score, Starbucks presents a mixed bag. If you’re seeking quick, friendly service for a reliable beverage, it often delivers.
However, be prepared for potential inconsistencies in your order and consider the value for money, especially for specialty items. Ultimately, this location might suit those prioritizing speed and a generally pleasant interaction over a consistent, perfectly executed order or a place to settle in.
Manage your expectations regarding overall value and the availability of seating for the most satisfying visit.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Starbucks
Food (4.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 59% of the guests
When it comes to the food and drink experience, there's a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 4.2, placing it in the average range. Many customers have enjoyed the drinks, with positive feedback highlighting great drinks, fun and creative options, and delicious beverages. There was even a delightful oat milk caramel brulee sample that left a good impression, based on 6 positive reports.
However, customer satisfaction sits at a rather poor 28.6%, largely due to significant issues with consistency and value. Many of the 13 negative pieces of feedback mention overpriced milkshakes, frequent incorrect drink orders, and problems like no ice or nonexistent cold foam. There are also reports of getting the wrong drink entirely and even spilled drinks due to ill-fitting tops, along with issues concerning warmed pumpkin bread.
Food
21
Reviews
28%
Satisfaction
13
negative
2
neutral
6
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious drinks
- Creative options
What people don't like
- Incorrect orders
- Overpriced milkshakes
- Spilled drinks
Often praised
- drinksdrinks can be fun and creative or just simple
- foodShe offered upstanding customer service, was super friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. Cheyenne recommended delicious drinks and tasty food. I look forward to seeing her again.
- oat milk caramel brulee samplegiven a sample of the oat milk caramel brulee? And it was delicious!
- ordered beveragesour beverages that we ordered were delicious.
Frequently criticized
- drinksI found the milkshakes to be overpriced and the service was poor. The tipping culture and substandard drinks were also significant issues. I would recommend driving an extra 5 minutes to go somewhere local instead.
- cold foamThe cold foam is nonexistent at this location
- cortadoI order a cortado, "no foam" "protein boosted milk"
- drink orderUnfortunately, this is the third time my drink order has been made incorrectly, and I've had to throw it away. It's too much money to keep wasting.
- milkshakesoverpriced milkshakes
- no iceHowever, the drinks are made with little to no effort. I've experienced no ice in iced coffee/teas, even with no customizations to the ice. The cold foam is nonexistent at this location; it will come with 10% of what it is supposed to be or be stirred into the drink.
- no sleevethere was no sleeve on the drink
- protein boosted cold foamreceiving "protein boosted cold foam"
- pumpkin breadasked me if I wanted it warmed up then. She said "well ur not being charged". So I drove away, Really annoyed she asked me but didnt bother to warm the bread up or even give it to me.
- spilled in my carit spilled in my car and burned my hand
If you're looking for a potentially creative and delicious drink, you might find something you like here. However, be prepared for a high chance of incorrect orders, inconsistent quality, and potentially overpriced items, which could lead to disappointment.
Service (4.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
Looking at the service, it seems there are some bright spots! Many customers, based on 13 positive remarks out of 34 total, appreciated the friendly and welcoming staff, especially those who acted promptly and with enthusiasm. Folks often highlighted great drive-thru service and helpful staff members with good menu knowledge.
However, the overall picture for service is a bit of a mixed bag, leaning towards needing improvement. With 19 negative comments, issues like poor customer service, lack of employee training, and even problems with store opening hours and verbal communication were noted. The service score sits at an average 4.8, but customer satisfaction is quite low at 38.2%, indicating significant room for improvement in providing consistent quality service.
Service
34
Reviews
38%
Satisfaction
19
negative
2
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, welcoming staff
- Prompt drive-thru service
- Knowledgeable menu advice
What people don't like
- Poor customer service
- Incorrect orders
- Unreliable opening hours
Often praised
- Drive Thru onlyexcited about the new Drive Thru only location
- cheerfulalways so cheerful and friendly and welcoming
- customer serviceUpstanding customer service
- drive-thru servicebest experience at the drive-thru.
- enthusiasmgreeted in the drive thru promptly and with enthusiasm!!
- friendlyalways so cheerful and friendly and welcoming
- menu knowledgeMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic, largely due to the incredible service provided by Cheyenne. She offered upstanding customer service, was super friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. Cheyenne recommended delicious drinks and tasty food.
- promptlygreeted in the drive thru promptly
- serviceservice was alright gets kinda busy there but still friendly
- staffStaff is friendly and helpful
Frequently criticized
- customer servicecustomer service was really DRY
- 15 minuteswait another 15 minutes for them to make the drink
- actual supportI'm also tired of seeing the placating responses from Starbucks; they have yet to respond via Starbucks, and customer service is nil. They don’t really provide any actual support.
- better peopleseriously need to hire her better people
- complete orderI'd like a complete order.
- employeeemployee with a blank look on her face
- orderMy order... came out wrong
- placating responsestired of seeing the placating responses from SB
- quality serviceAccountability for quality service is more important to me then if they write on my cup.
- refund my moneyAm I supposed to leave work and go back to get a new one? There's no way to refund my money on the app? I order a cortado with "no foam" and "protein boosted milk, " but I keep receiving "protein boosted cold foam.
If youre hoping for a consistently smooth experience, you might find the service here a bit hit-or-miss. While some encounters are genuinely friendly and efficient, be prepared for potential issues with order accuracy or staff availability. Its worth a try if you're in the area, but manage your expectations regarding overall service quality.
Ambience (4 out of 10)
mentioned by 35% of the guests
When it comes to the vibe, some folks really appreciate the general atmosphere, finding the area very roomy. The lovely coffee smell makes it a nice spot to sit, and even the drive-through gets a nod for its native plants. With 4 positive remarks out of 14 total, theres definitely a bright side to the ambiance, with many enjoying the overall vibes and atmosphere.
However, the ambiance is a bit of a mixed bag, with an average score of 4 and customer satisfaction at a rather poor 28.6%. Many of the 9 negative comments highlight the lack of indoor seating or outdoor tables, describing it as just a coffee STAND with no entry, only a pick-up window. The absence of restrooms and the drive-through and window order only' setup were significant disappointments.
Ambience
14
Reviews
28%
Satisfaction
9
negative
1
neutral
4
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Roomy general atmosphere
- Pleasant coffee smell
- Native plants landscaping
What people don't like
- No indoor seating
- No outdoor tables
- No restrooms
Often praised
- atmospheregeneral atmosphere of the area is very roomy
- coffee smellcoffee smell makes it nice to sit
- native plantsdrive through was planted with native plants
- vibesGreat drinks, vibes!!
Frequently criticized
- Starbucks modelVery unusual Starbucks model
- coffee STANDthis is a coffee STAND - no entry, only pick up window
- doorsthe doors were locked
- drive-throughridiculous to open a drive-through and window order only location
- indoor seatingthere is no indoor space for seating
- outdoor tablesthere aren’t any outdoor tables or chairs
- restroomsMy experience at this restaurant was absolutely ridiculous. They opened a drive-through and window order only location, which has no seating or restrooms. This setup is completely impractical.
- seatingMy experience at this restaurant was absolutely ridiculous. They opened a drive-through and window order only location, which has no seating or restrooms. This setup is completely impractical.
- window orderMy experience at this restaurant was absolutely ridiculous. They opened a drive-through and window order only location, which has no seating or restrooms. This setup is completely impractical.
If youre just looking for a quick coffee to go and appreciate a nice drive-through aesthetic, this spot might work. But if youre hoping for a place to sit, relax, or use facilities, you'll likely be disappointed by the lack of indoor seating, outdoor tables, and restrooms.
Value (2 out of 10)
mentioned by 18% of the guests
When it comes to value, its clear there arent any shining examples to highlight. With 0 positive remarks out of 3 customer observations, theres simply no upbeat feedback about the pricing or overall cost-effectiveness to share. However, the value aspect really struggles, earning a poor score of just 2 and a poor customer satisfaction rating of 0%.
Customers frequently mentioned issues with the tip requests, feeling things were overpriced, especially the milkshakes, and that they were wasting money' on incorrect orders. Based on 3 negative observations, it seems the cost-effectiveness is a major concern.
Value
3
Reviews
0%
Satisfaction
3
negative
0
neutral
0
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
What people don't like
- Unexpected tip prompts
- Overpriced menu items
- Costly incorrect orders
Often praised
No positive aspects so far.
Frequently criticized
- moneyUnfortunately, this is the third time my drink order has been made incorrectly, and I've had to throw it away. It's too much money to keep wasting. I called the store, but the best they can do is remake it.
- priceoverpriced milkshakes
- tipasked for a tip on the payment method
If you're looking for good value, this might not be the place for you. Customers consistently found the pricing to be an issue, from unexpected tip requests to feeling like they wasted money on incorrect orders. You might want to consider other options if cost-effectiveness is a priority.
How are the prices at Starbucks?
On average, you’ll spend around 9 per person – from 10 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $1–$10 category. For a Cafe, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.
Looking at what people actually spent, most diners (8 out of 10) kept their bill within this 1-10$ range, showing prices generally cluster around this friendly average, though a couple ventured a bit higher.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 10 reviews.
See how this Cafe’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Diego.
Overall, for a Cafe in San Diego, we think the pricing feels quite fair. It’s a comfortable spot for a casual meal without breaking the bank, offering good value for what you get.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Starbucks
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
2
Incorrect Drink Orders Repeatedly
Unfortunately, this is the third time my drink order has been made incorrectly, and I've had to throw it away. It's too much money to keep wasting. I called the store, but the best they can do is remake it.
Am I supposed to leave work and go back to get a new one? There's no way to refund my money on the app? I order a cortado with "no foam" and "protein boosted milk, " but I keep receiving "protein boosted cold foam.
" I would appreciate a credit for a new drink.
- drink order2
- money2
- remake it3
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Takeout
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
2
Terrible Experience, Won't Return
My experience this morning was quite disappointing. I drove through and received the wrong drink, which wasn't even close to what I ordered. I had to drive back and wait another 15 minutes for them to remake it.
After waiting, and with everyone else having left, they finally came to the window and asked what I was waiting for. Despite this being a new Starbucks, there seems to be a consistent problem. I would rather drive 10 minutes out of my way to Target, where I know things are done correctly.
They seriously need to hire better people. To add to the issues, the drink had no sleeve, the top didn't fit, and it spilled in my car, burning my hand. I won't be coming here again.
- wrong drink1
- 15 minutes2
- better people1
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Takeout
2
Ridiculous Drive-Through Only Location
My experience at this restaurant was absolutely ridiculous. They opened a drive-through and window order only location, which has no seating or restrooms. This setup is completely impractical.
- drive-through2
- window order2
- seating1
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Takeout
Meal Type
- Lunch
2
Unusual Starbucks Model: Drive-Thru Only
My experience at this Starbucks was quite unusual. Since the Starbucks on Genesee and Balboa closed, this became the next closest option. Oddly enough, despite being in a large building, there is no indoor seating available.
Furthermore, there are no outdoor tables or chairs either. The only options for service are drive-through or walking up to a window, where you have to wait for someone to come and open it to speak with you. It's a very unusual Starbucks model.
- drive through5
- walk up to a window5
- indoor seating2
- outdoor tables2
- Starbucks model3
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Takeout
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
2
Annoyed by drive-thru order mix-up
I went through the drive-thru and was asked if I wanted my pumpkin bread warmed up. I said yes. When I reached the pick-up window, the loaf wasn't on my order.
When I questioned why it was offered if not included, the staff member stated, "well, you're not being charged. " I drove away feeling annoyed that they offered to warm it but didn't provide it. I expected a complete order, and missing the food portion of my morning was disappointing.
Accountability for quality service is more important to me than minor details like cup writing.
- pumpkin bread2
- complete order1
- quality service1
What Starbucks offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Transgender safespace
- Tourists
- College students
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Solo dining
- Breakfast
Amenities
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Coffee
Dining options
- Seating
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Dessert
Service Options
- Drive-through
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Parking
- Free street parking
- Free parking lot
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What service options are available at this Starbucks location?
This Starbucks offers you a variety of convenient service options. You can utilize the drive-through for quick pickups, enjoy the outdoor seating, or dine-in. Takeout is also available, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite coffee and quick bites on the go.
Is this Starbucks location accessible and what amenities does it provide?
Yes, this Starbucks is fully accessible, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, seating, and restroom for your comfort. Additionally, you can benefit from free Wi-Fi and a clean restroom, making your visit convenient and enjoyable.
How does Starbucks generally score with customers?
Starbucks holds an overall score of 4.4 , indicating an average experience. While Service (4.8), Food (4.2), and Ambience (4) are also average, Value (2) is notably lower, pulling down the overall perception.
What do customers appreciate most about Starbucks?
Many customers highlight the friendly and knowledgeable staff, often praising their delicious drinks and the generally roomy atmosphere for a comfortable stop.
What are common complaints about Starbucks?
Frequent concerns include incorrect drink orders and overpriced milkshakes . Some locations also draw criticism for a lack of seating or restrooms , making them less practical for lingering.