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I have always loved coffee and coffee shops. There atmosphere, the people that sit quietly to read or type away on their laptops. They go about their day with a book in hand, slurping on a cappuccino or latte. Having five minutes of peace before returning to their busy schedules. Whatever that might entail.
Today I thought I would try two of the most famous coffee shops in the country: Starbucks and Costa. Exploring which is the best tasting, good value for money and has the best service. With my mum on my heels, as an unbiased companion.
First up, was Costa. On entering the cafe, the atmosphere was warm, inviting and wasn’t busy but not dead either. It was comfortable. Once we arrived in front of the cashier, we ordered a small tea and a small soy caramel latte. My companion went to grab a seat. Leaving me to watch as our drinks were made by a very pleasant young woman, who was polite and professional.
On receiving our drinks, the first impressions were good. They were displayed in official Costa cups and we were provided with a teapot of extra tea for my companion.
Unfortunately, the Twinings English Breakfast tea was met with unsatisfied facial expressions and my coffee froth was left with a little blob on top. However, the taste of my coffee was smooth, sweet and mouth watering, which I thought made up for the disappointing blob!
The price for the two drinks totalled to £4.80. For the size of them compared to the size asked for is pretty good. Considering the other coffee shops I have been do charge a little more.
Feeling a little adventurous we went into Starbucks. At the moment they have a new set of hot drinks that are made out of tea. Laughing, we ordered two Motcha Tea Lattes. The two drinks together totalled to: £6.90. A little more than before, but with them being a new product produced by Starbucks you can’t complain!
The service was exceptional. The American woman behind the counter was professional, courteous and so polite. She even called me “Ma’am”. Good customer service always wins you brownie points with me. She even stamped a little card for me. Explaining that I only needed two more stamps before I can get a free Motcha. Which I would definitely have again!
The strange, green liquid was a little unsettling at first and we both looked at our drinks as though it was swamp water mixed with mushy peas.
But, one sip and we were hooked! The silky texture and the mix of the Motcha tea and the hazelnut syrup was divine. It gave a little, subtle sweetness that was pleasant but not overpowering.
The presentation of the drinks had been simple. Just white, Starbucks mugs. Which, to be honest, I prefer. It makes the drink look more appealing than having a fancy glass, or mug, that the employee has just added a blob to on the top rather than what is advertised.
At the end of our visit to Junction 32 in Castleford, we both decided that the odd, green drink won our hearts. Costa’s over the top presentation but sloppiness when it came to the top of my drink made us feel as though the drink hadn't been put much effort into.
But, the service and quality of the beverages at Starbucks brought a smile back to our faces. Even my mum, who doesn’t drink coffee, decided that one of those Mochta's could, and I quote, “come again.”