Blank Street Coffee is a great choice for those seeking high-quality coffee, convenience, and affordability. Starbucks Reserve Roastery is better suited for those looking for a unique and premium coffee experience with a wider range of options, willing to pay a higher price and tolerate potential inconsistencies.
| Attribute | Blank Street Coffee | Starbucks Reserve Roastery |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Quality | High-quality, sustainably grown coffee beans, graded 85-87 on the Q-Grade, gourmet taste, consistent experience, fresh | Focuses on small-lot, high-quality Arabica beans from unique regions. Master Roasters tailor roasts for each coffee lot. Brewed using specialty methods like Siphon, Chemex, and Clover. Espresso is smoother and less bitter compared to regular Starbucks, but roasting can be inconsistent. |
| Espresso Drink Variety | Espresso, americano, macchiato, cortado, latte, cappuccino, flat white, hot chocolate, mocha, chai, chai tea, and matcha latte (both hot and iced) | Offers a wide range of espresso-based drinks, including classics and unique creations like Toffeenut Bianco Latte, Dark Chocolate Mocha, and Nitro Almondmilk Mocha. Espresso Martini Flights are available. |
| Brewed Coffee Options | Classic filter coffee brewed with their signature blend | Offers various brewing methods, including ModBar Pour Over, Chemex, Coffee Press, Siphon, and Clover-brewed coffee. Cold brew options include Whiskey Barrel-Aged Cold Brew. Coffee flights are available. |
| Tea Selection | Specialty teas including matcha, chai, Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and chamomile | Features a Teavana bar with a wide variety of teas, including unique blends and signature tea drinks like the Citrus Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Tasting Journey. Flavors include Citrus Lavender Sage, Pineapple Kona Pop, and Strawberry Mint Oolong. |
| Pastry and Food Selection | Locally sourced pastries (pistachio loaf, almond croissant, chocolate croissant, banana bread), grab-and-go snacks (yogurt, kombucha), breakfast wraps and sandwiches | Offers Italian-inspired specialties from Princi bakery, including pastries, pizzas, and sandwiches, baked fresh onsite. Menu items include cornetti, brioche, tarts, and pizzas. Some locations offer seasonal snacks and desserts. |
| Seating Availability | Limited in some locations, some are 'grab and go', some offer spacious seating | Seating can be limited during peak hours. Some locations have multiple floors with various seating options. The Tokyo Roastery has 300 seats. |
| Ambiance and Decor | Cozy, inviting, sleek, modern, minimalist design, large windows for natural light | Designed to be immersive and multi-sensory experiences. The decor often includes a large copper cask, open roasting areas, and unique design elements. The ambiance is often described as luxurious, sophisticated, and energetic. |
| Noise Level | Southie location: quiet but urban atmosphere | Can be noisy, especially due to the coffee roasting equipment. The noise level may not be conducive to working or having quiet conversations. |
| Wi-Fi Availability and Speed | Available, strong and consistent connection | Wi-Fi is generally available, but the reliability and speed can vary. |
| Price Range | Filter coffee starts at $2.50, Americano is $3, cold brew is $4, reasonable and competitive pricing | More expensive than regular Starbucks stores. Drinks can range from $7 to $14, and food items start at $9. Some experiences, like the Espresso Martini class, can cost $95 per person. |
| Speed of Service | Speedy and efficient | The service is generally considered efficient and friendly. Baristas are often knowledgeable and passionate about coffee. |
| Location and Accessibility | Numerous locations, easily accessible, some inside underground/subway stations | Located in major cities around the world. Accessibility varies by location, with some offering wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms. Proximity to public transportation depends on the specific location. |