Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great tea selection
oChef » Starbucks – San Diego
Starbucks - San Diego
Photo from Starbucks
Starbucks at a glance
San Diego Point Loma
- ☕ Café
$
Price per Person $1–$10
mentioned by 47 of the guests
#652 out of 755 places to eat in San Diego
#58 Café out of 65 in San Diego
Average
5.5 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
263
Reviews
47.1%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Quality coffee
- Friendly staff
Frequently criticized
- Long waits
- Rude staff
The cafe Starbucks in San Diego’s vibrant Point Loma neighborhood is a fantastic spot to grab a moment for yourself. You’ll discover a welcoming atmosphere here, perfect for enjoying a quick bite or a leisurely coffee.
Known for its great coffee, this cafe offers a cozy, casual, and trendy setting where you can unwind. Whether you’re starting your day or taking a break, you’ll find it’s a convenient and pleasant experience.
Overview: Introducting Starbucks
Starbucks presents a mixed bag for visitors, with many appreciating the generally friendly employees and the often cozy atmosphere for a quick stop. However, some experiences suggest an unfriendly vibe and occasional issues that can detract from the overall visit.
While the beverages often hit the mark, and the food is typically what one expects, there are instances where the service falls short. Customers frequently highlight the clean bathrooms as a positive, yet other aspects of the environment can be inconsistent.
Average
5.5
out of 10
263
Reviews
47.1%
Satisfaction
122
negative
17
neutral
124
positive
Starbucks garners an overall Restaurant Score of 5.5, positioning it squarely in the average range. This is mirrored by a Customer Satisfaction rating of 47.1%, indicating a mixed reception among patrons.
These insights are drawn from 263 customer observations, comprising 124 positive remarks and 122 negative ones. Delving into specific aspects, the Food (6.0) generally receives the most favorable feedback, often described as consistent.
However, Service (5.5) and Ambience (5.2) hover around average, suggesting room for improvement. The Value (5.0) also sits in the middle, indicating that while prices are reasonable, they don’t necessarily stand out.
What people like
- Quality coffee
- Friendly staff
- Cozy atmosphere
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Rude staff
- Bathroom policy
If you’re looking for a convenient spot for a coffee and appreciate a generally friendly staff, Starbucks can be a suitable choice. However, be prepared for potential inconsistencies in service and atmosphere, as reflected in a Recommendation Score of 5.4.
It’s a place that often meets basic expectations but doesn’t consistently impress. For a hassle-free experience, it might be worth a visit, but if you prioritize exceptional service or a consistently perfect environment, you might find it a bit of a gamble.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Starbucks
Food (6 out of 10)
mentioned by 54% of the guests
When it comes to the food and drink offerings, the feedback is a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 6 (which we'd call average) and customer satisfaction sitting at 53.6%, indicating a mixed experience. Many customers rave about the excellent coffee, especially the Caramel Macchiato and iced cold brew drinks, often noting the care put into them. Some also enjoyed the grilled cheese and sandwiches, finding the food to be exactly what it should be.
However, there are some noticeable downsides. Several comments mention disappointing drink quality, with issues like missing milk foam or drinks being watery. There have also been concerns about hygiene, with mentions of plastic or even a fingernail found, and frustration over items like the Raspberry white mocha or double smoke bacon sandwich being out of stock, based on 56 total comments, with 30 positive and 19 negative.
Food
56
Reviews
53%
Satisfaction
19
negative
7
neutral
30
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Excellent coffee drinks
- Good sandwich options
- Drinks made with care
What people don't like
- Inconsistent drink quality
- Items out of stock
- Hygiene concerns
Often praised
- coffeeIt was always a great place. We were traveling and it was definitely time to stop for coffee. We went through the drive-thru and were pleasantly surprised and blessed when we were told the lady in front of us paid!
- foodThe food was exactly what it should be
- drinkThis is a cozy little neighborhood spot. The staff was very nice and even made me a drink right before closing. This made my long drive home that much nicer.
- drinksyou can basically taste the love and care these workers give the drinks
- Caramel MacchiatoPoint Loma Starbucks gets it right everytime, 5.80 for tall Carmel macchio!
- SandwichRecommended dishes:Sandwich
- blonde roast espressoI'll miss the blonde roast espresso
- caramel macchiatoa caramel macchiato
- coffee housesfar better coffee houses in San Diego
- cold for hoursMy iced coffee stayed cold for hours
Frequently criticized
- coffeeI attempted to call the store to discuss the issue, but I received no answer as I had already arrived at work. I'm really sad about my experience today 😞 I had to throw the coffee out (I have a picture, but the review won't let me add it).
- hot watercan't order hot water with my sandwich
- waterfeel something in my mouth. A FINGERNAIL
- Raspberry white mochadon’t have what I want Raspberry white mocha
- americanoGot a watery "something". Didn't even taste like coffe
- double smoke bacon sandwichdon’t have what I want double smoke bacon sandwich
- drinkMy experience at this restaurant was mostly positive, with the drinks being a standout. On one occasion, the drink was lacking flavor, but the other three times, you could truly taste the love and care these workers put into their creations. This attention to detail in the drinks was a highlight of my visits.
- drink qualitythe drink quality is disappointing
- extra coconut milkforget about extra milk
- milk foamthey missed my milk foam
If youre looking for a reliable coffee fix, especially a Caramel Macchiato or iced cold brew, youll likely be pleased. However, be prepared for potential inconsistencies in drink quality or menu availability, and keep an eye out for hygiene issues, which might make you think twice.
Service (5.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 88% of the guests
Based on 142 customer remarks, the service here is a bit of a mixed bag, with a 5.5 score indicating it's average, and customer satisfaction sitting at a 45.1% mixed level. Many guests rave about the friendly staff and their attention to detail, often highlighting how baristas make their drinks right. Positive experiences frequently mention accommodating employees and their overall kindness.
However, with 71 negative remarks compared to 64 positive ones, there are clear areas for improvement. Some customers have encountered rude staff and long wait times, particularly in the drive-thru. Issues like poor management, early closures, and a general lack of compassion or accommodating attitudes also frequently surface, creating frustrating experiences for many.
Service
142
Reviews
45%
Satisfaction
71
negative
7
neutral
64
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Accurate drink orders
- Accommodating service
What people don't like
- Rude staff
- Excessive wait times
- Poor management
Often praised
- staffthe staff and the people that work there are hands-down the coolest people ever
- orderthey always get the order right
- serviceThe best service at this Starbucks!
- baristasI feel bad for the baristas because you can feel the tension
- workersThe workers are very on point and thoughtful.
- employeesThe employees are incredibly friendly
- SERVICEI thought they were closed, but they came out and said, "No, we’re open. " Super good and perky SERVICE 😎.
- ServiceService:4
- Thanksgiving dayThey were a lifesaver on Thanksgiving day. I thought they were closed, but they came out and said, "No, we’re open.
- Wait timeWait time:No wait
Frequently criticized
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was incredibly negative due to the cold and heartless service I received. I entered in significant pain, hunched over with abdominal cramps.
- bathroom codeinformed me that I had to place an order before I could use the bathroom
- staffI will never use this location again. The staff needs to be replaced.
- drive thruWish we knew the drive thru was broken
- drive-throughsit in drive-through 35 minutes to get a coffee
- early closuresThis location frequently closes early for no apparent reason. It's been noted in several reviews, and each response is an automated message.
- employeeUpon entering and needing to use the restroom, I asked for the code. A very rude man with curly hair and a mustache informed me that I had to place an order first. I paused, looking around to confirm I was indeed in a Starbucks.
- employeesMy experience at this restaurant was marred by the unbelievably rude and unprofessional employees. They had a bad attitude and were unwilling to provide an extra sauce, something other Starbucks stores would do with a smile.
- securityThis happens quite often and it's over the top. Today I was here not 6 minutes before security came up rude and aggressive. Won't return again this time.
- waiting timeHowever, they did not know how to manage large orders. With two 25-coffee orders ahead of us, they were not able to pivot, causing all other customers to wait for 30+ minutes for their coffee.
If you're looking for quick, consistently friendly service, you might find it hit or miss here. While some visits are great, be prepared for potential long waits or less-than-stellar interactions, especially during busy times or if you need specific accommodations.
Ambience (5.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 43% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot presents a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5.2 and customer satisfaction sitting at 48.3%. Many guests appreciate the clean store, spacious lobby, and the warm, friendly atmosphere, often highlighting the comfortable seating and pleasant outdoor areas for people-watching. There were 28 positive comments, noting things like the neighborhood vibe and dog friendly environment.
However, with 29 negative comments, there are some clear areas for improvement. Concerns frequently popped up about unsanitary conditions, a lack of accessible power outlets for those wanting to work or study, and issues with inside temperature being too cold. Some also found the atmosphere disappointing due to loud corporate music or dirty bathrooms.
Ambience
58
Reviews
48%
Satisfaction
29
negative
1
neutral
28
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Clean store
- Spacious lobby
- Outdoor seating
What people don't like
- Unsanitary conditions
- No power outlets
- Loud music
Often praised
- bathroomsThere are two bathrooms that are clean
- great placeWhat was your experience at the restaurant? It was always a great place. We were traveling and it was definitely time to stop for coffee.
- storethe store is cute and cozy
- amazingthis particular location is just amazing
- atmospherethe atmosphere was enjoyable
- bathroombathroom open + clean
- cafethe cafe is beautiful, with nice decorative touches
- cool airto enjoy the cool air
- dog friendlySuper dog friendly
- great vibewith a great vibe
Frequently criticized
- Starbucksone of the least friendly Starbucks I’ve ever been to
- Parking spaceParking space:Somewhat difficult to find parking
- atmospherethe atmosphere was quite disappointing
- bathroomthe bathroom was filthy
- consumeristic botnever become a mindless, consumeristic, bot.
- corporate musicCorporate music is Aweful
- customer friendly placeThe Idea Is To Provide A Customer Friendly Place Where The Customer Feels COMFORTABLE Spending Money!
- dead ratdead rat and other issues
- fingernailthere’s a fingernail in the bottom of his cup
- food and drinksnot near areas of where food and drinks are prepared
If you're looking for a casual spot with a nice outdoor area and a friendly vibe, it might be worth a visit. However, if you need a reliable place to work with power outlets, or are sensitive to temperature and cleanliness issues, you might want to consider other options.
Value (5 out of 10)
mentioned by 10% of the guests
When it comes to value, some folks found the price per person quite reasonable, especially for breakfast takeout. Based on 2 positive remarks out of 7 total, it seems the price can be a pleasant surprise. While the overall score for value sits at an average 5, its clear some customers appreciate what they get for their money.
However, the value experience isnt always smooth sailing. There are concerns about discount availability, with some feeling unwelcome despite a significant monthly bill. Issues like being charged for soy milk after a previous free offer also contribute to a low customer satisfaction of just 28.6%, which is quite poor and suggests significant room for improvement.
Value
7
Reviews
28%
Satisfaction
3
negative
2
neutral
2
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Reasonable price per person
What people don't like
- Discount issues
- Unexpected charges
- High bill concerns
Often praised
- priceIt's refreshing to find a place that understands specific temperature requests, unlike some others. This was a take out order for breakfast, and the price was very reasonable at $1–10 per person.
- price per personthe price per person was reasonable
Frequently criticized
- billSince My Little $350 A Month Bill On Starbucks Doesn’t Feel Welcomed…
- discountwas told, "Starbucks isn't giving that discount due to COVID."
- soy milkhe said he will give it to me this time but next time he has to charge
If youre looking for a basic meal at a reasonable price per person, you might find some value here. However, be prepared for potential issues with discount policies or extra charges, as customer satisfaction is quite low. Its a mixed bag, so manage your expectations regarding overall value.
How are the prices at Starbucks?
You’re looking at roughly 9 per person – reported by 47 diners. That puts it in the $1–$10 category. For a Cafe, that’s incredibly budget-friendly – definitely a steal!
Most guests, 33 out of 47, kept their spending in this lowest range, with a few venturing into the $11–$20 bracket. This shows prices really cluster around the average, making it a super affordable choice.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 47 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Diego.
Considering the average spend of 9 per person, we think the pricing here is incredibly fair for a Cafe in San Diego. It looks like a fantastic option if you’re seeking a delicious and budget-friendly meal without breaking the bank.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Starbucks
Service Intent
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Unfriendly Starbucks Experience
My experience at this Starbucks was quite negative. I had just arrived for work and was still getting set up when I was approached by a woman working there. She stated I needed to purchase something, even though I hadn't had a chance to order yet.
It was one of the least friendly Starbucks I've ever been to.
- woman working here1
- Starbucks1
Service Intent
- Tourist Experience
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Exceptional Starbucks Experience
My husband and I had a wonderful experience at this Starbucks during our vacation in San Diego. The staff, particularly Asa and Jem, were incredibly welcoming and catered to our specific latte preferences. The spacious lobby and the well-crafted sliding wooden door to the pantry added to the pleasant atmosphere.
- staff10
- latte9
- spacious lobby9
Service Intent
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Takeout
6
Inconsistent Service Mars Otherwise Good Experience
I frequently visit this Starbucks location, whether I choose to sit inside or use the drive-thru. On several occasions, I've placed mobile orders because my order is complicated and customized, and I want to ensure it's placed correctly. Multiple times now, upon arriving at the speaker, I've encountered condescending remarks from a worker named Keira.
I'm simply letting them know I've arrived, not expecting the order to be ready or rushing them. Today, they asked us to pull around again to assist other cars behind us, which was understandable and more than okay. However, Keira's attitude and remarks make this location much less pleasant, and I'd rather drive elsewhere.
- mobile orders7
- pull around again6
- condescending remarks2
- worker's attitude2
Service Intent
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
10
Lifesaver on Thanksgiving!
They were a lifesaver on Thanksgiving day. I thought they were closed, but they came out and said, "No, we’re open. " Super good and perky SERVICE 😎.
- SERVICE10
- Thanksgiving day10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Service Intent
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Clean bathrooms and friendly staff!
My experience at this restaurant was great. The workers were very friendly, and they handled rude customers with professionalism. I appreciated that the bathrooms were for customers only, as this contributed to their cleanliness.
Unlike other establishments with easily accessible bathrooms that are often nasty, their bathrooms were always clean.
- workers9
- rude customers8
- bathrooms9
What Starbucks offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Transgender safespace
- Tourists
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- College students
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
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Dessert
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Drive-through
- Delivery
- No-contact delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Curbside pickup
- Dine-in
- Outdoor seating
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Free street parking
- Free parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere and offerings can you expect at this Point Loma cafe?
At this San Diego cafe, you’ll find a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere perfect for a quick bite or small plates. It’s known for great coffee and a wide tea selection, making it an ideal spot to relax or grab something on the go.
What service options and parking are available at this San Diego Starbucks?
You have numerous service options including drive-through, delivery, takeout, and dine-in. For your convenience, there’s usually plenty of parking with free street parking and a free parking lot available, ensuring an easy visit.
What is the overall customer sentiment for Starbucks?
Starbucks has a mixed customer sentiment, with a Restaurant Score of 5.5 and Customer Satisfaction at 47.1%. While Food (6.0) is generally well-regarded, Service (5.5), Ambience (5.2), and Value (5.0) are considered average.
Are the staff at Starbucks generally friendly?
Many customers praise the staff, describing them as **friendly employees** and **coolest people**. However, some experiences mention **rude staff** and **cold service**, indicating inconsistency.
What are common issues customers face at Starbucks?
Common issues include **long wait times**, particularly at the drive-thru, and occasional **early closures**. Some customers also report **filthy bathrooms** and an **unfriendly atmosphere**.