As Americans, we have a very important decision to make this November: Trump or Hillary? However, there is another super important decision that every overpriced beverage lover has to make almost daily: Starbucks or Coffee Bean? The choice sounds petty, but fans of each chain would argue otherwise. The next time you find yourself struggling to decide on a coffee franchise, look to this guide to help you find the answer.
Starbucks
A definite advantage that Starbucks has is the fact that it’s located on just about every street corner. I’m not kidding when I say that you can have Starbucks whenever you want. Shopping at Target? There’s a Starbucks inside Target. Staying at a hotel? There’s a Starbucks inside the hotel. Flying to Bali? There’s a Starbucks in the airport. In fact, you can even get Starbucks delivered to you using a website like Postmates. However, if you hit up any Starbucks at peak hours, you are guaranteed to be waiting in line for quite a while. Now I wouldn’t crack open "Pride and Prejudice" and expect to finish the novel in its entirety before you get your drink, however, you should plan at least 15 to 20 extra minutes to pick up your caramel macchiato before heading off to work or class. While waiting in line, the glowing displays of food are extremely tempting. Starbucks has an extensive pre-packaged food selection, and their pastries and sandwiches are to die for, making Starbucks a great one-stop shop for a quick lunch. Starbucks also has a great variety of coffees and whatnot, and there is even a secret menu for those bold enough to annoy the barista. As a tea lover myself, I feel as though their tea selection is somewhat lacking, but their warm drinks (especially around the holidays) are superior. There’s definitely a reason that Starbucks is as popular and loved as it is, and no matter what competition they face, the brand will always have returning customers.
Coffee Bean
Unlike Starbucks, Coffee Beans are hard to find. While some consider this an annoyance, I believe that finding one is like finding a diamond in the rough. This makes getting a drink from there an extra special experience, as it is a treat. Coffee Bean may be a little out of the way, but some drinks are worth searching for. With that being said, it is rare that you find a long wait at Coffee Bean. Of course, during peak hours there will be slight traffic, but chances are that you can get in and out of the place in five minutes tops. Plus, bringing it to co-workers is much appreciated rather than the usual Starbucks. If you’re popping by at lunchtime, they do have some pre-made food, but there isn’t that wide of a selection. In terms of pastries, Coffee Bean does not disappoint. This coffee shop makes a killer scone; take my word for it. Their pastries are always guaranteed to be flaky, sweet, and overall delicious. They can perfectly satisfy your sweet tooth or even hit that savory craving you’ve had all day. Coffee Bean has a decent selection of coffees, but their tea selection is amazing. They have fruit teas good enough to make your mouth water, and you can even order them frozen. While Starbucks practically monopolizes the hot drink market, Coffee Bean is the spot for cold beverages. They also cater to coffee and tea lovers of all ages by offering sweeter items for the little ones in your life. The blood orange iced tea really hits the spot on a hot day! It’s a fruity beverage that still helps you get your oh-so-desired caffeine fix. Although Coffee Bean may be the underdog, it shouldn’t be counted out.
Does this help you pick a spot to set up your laptop, grab a pastry and a drink, and work the day away? Here’s my final judgment: if it’s cold out, go with Starbucks, but if it’s hot out, Coffee Bean is your place. Either way, both places are guaranteed to satisfy your most basic coffee and tea needs. What do you think? Are you a Starbucks superfan or a Coffee Bean connoisseur?
