No more meetings at Starbucks

mikehudack:

caro:

mikehudack:

There is. Check out Les Halles.

machinetext:

Couldn’t agree more, I just wish such a place existed anywhere near 23rd & park …

msg:

amen

mikehudack:

From now on all meetings over coffee will take place at charming independent cafes and bookstores. No exceptions.

New idea for a Web site: A Starbucks-alternative directory for intrepid business nomads who want to spice up their meeting spots. Cafes and restaurants indexed with ratings on 1) how quick it is to get a cup of coffee and the general suckitude or non-suckitude of said coffee, 2) whether it’s appropriate to order coffee without food or whip out a laptop, 3) Wi-Fi, natch.

Does this exist already?

It doesn’t, as far as I know, but it should. For the record: Les Halles has good coffee, is happy with you ordering “just” coffee, and offers free WiFi.

I suppose one could use Google Maps as such a directory.. My biggest issue with non-Starbucks is that you have to have a good barista. As Starbucks’ machines are totally automated you’re virtually guaranteed a good pull, whereas in smaller shops it’s up to the person behind the counter to care enough to pull correctly. It does introduce more personality to what is normally a chore, though. I think you end up with your favorite baristas like one would end up with their favorite bartenders.