I refer to Roy Street Coffee and Tea and 15th Ave Coffee and Tea as the "secret Starbucks." On the doors and websites, they claim that the shop is "inspired by Starbucks," but that means that it IS a Starbucks dressing up like a mom and pop coffee shop. They definitely know how to target a new audience. I must admit...I like the feel of the recycled furniture, wood beams and metal accessories. You definitely don't feel like you're inside a suburban cookie-cutter Starbucks. These shops have received mixed reviews from the community. Check it out:
Free events build community and local culture. I support the changes that Starbucks is making and will also support smaller coffee shops in my neighborhood. I'll take a little of everything please. And thank you.
