The Hawk

Issue date: 1/24/07 Section: News

The Starbucks that replaced part of Dake's Drugs will accept declining balance dollars.

The highly anticipated Starbucks officially opened its doors to St. Joe's students and the local community last Tuesday. Located on the corner of Old Lancaster and City Avenues, the high-style coffee hangout has been drawing eager customers since day one.

While the University offers Java City coffee (the stand at the entrance of Mandeville Hall is quite popular), it comes as no surprise that the new Starbucks has quickly become a main attraction for St. Joe's students. Tom Rizzo, director of Dining Services, explained that even though Java City coffee is much cheaper compared to Starbucks, the latter is selling more than just a cup of coffee. According to Rizzo, it is the overall "legendary experience" of enjoying a cup of Starbucks' brand-name coffee that creates such popular demand.

Another reason for the high level of student appeal is the fact that an arrangement has been made between the school and Starbucks to allow students to use their declining balance to pay for coffee and pastries. Rizzo said that the so-called "lunch program," which includes small sandwiches and similar lunch-menu items that are available at most other Starbucks locations, will most likely be added in the near future. Having the location open for coffee sales for the start of the spring semester was the initial concern, and additions will be made progressively.

For instance, Rizzo noted that an order for "custom pull-down shades" has been placed with Starbucks in order to help with the sun glare and heat. Customers have complained about the heat from the sun coming through the large windows, especially those facing City Ave. Rizzo said that the shades will be in place within the next couple of weeks.

Aside from the heat issue, this Starbucks is much like any other with regards to the drink menu, the furniture layout, and overall modern café-like atmosphere. Kristina Nicosia, '08, described her first impression of the spot. "The people working there were so nice but they seemed a little flustered because of technical difficulties with the cash register… but my drink was really good and I'm glad we can use our swipe card to pay, even though I didn't know that the first time I went there."

Though the size of the shop seems slightly on the small side, seating is usually readily available. "It's small but cozy," Joy Badillo, '09, said, "and it's the ideal location to go to between classes." It is also conveniently equipped with power outlets every few feet which students can take advantage of for laptop power. However, as Teresa Tieman, '09, noted, this particular Starbucks location seems to be more of an "on the go" type of place, as not many are seen doing work while enjoying a cup of coffee.

Nicosia commented "I don't think I would do work there because it's small and probably too distracting."

Rizzo explained that the zoning committee of Lower Merion does not allow for a hanging Starbucks sign on the outside of the store, or for a designated parking lot. The main reason for this decision is the concern for slowing down the already heavy traffic on City Ave.

The current hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

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