Starbucks review: Horrible is an understatement

Date of Visit: August 7, 2025
Time: 9:03 AM
Location: Starbucks Store #65678 – Livingston, TX (Drive-Thru)

I had a very disappointing experience at the Livingston Starbucks this morning. I went through the drive-thru and began ordering my usual drink (Mango Dragonfruit Lemonade), which isn’t always on the menu. As I tried to clarify the order, the woman on the intercom rudely interrupted me and sounded irritated, like I was bothering her just for trying to get my drink right.

When I got to the window, I asked the young man if the intercom partner was having a good day, and instead of engaging respectfully, he responded with a defensive “Yes, why do you ask?” I was still on a Bluetooth call with a friend (who happens to be a Starbucks manager in another state) when he suddenly said, “We have a policy that customers can’t cuss.”

That caught me off guard because I wasn’t talking to him — I was speaking privately in my own car. I wasn’t cursing at anyone, and even if I had been venting on a private call, that’s not something Starbucks should be trying to control in my personal vehicle.

I asked for a receipt to leave feedback, which he hesitated to give me. I then spoke to the shift manager, who eventually admitted they misunderstood and offered the name of the store manager (Melissa Mouton). I called Melissa at 9:17 AM and left a voicemail — but never got a call back.

Overall, the experience felt intrusive and unprofessional. Staff should know the difference between a customer speaking to them and someone having a private conversation. And no, Starbucks does not get to dictate what someone says inside their own car when it’s not directed at anyone.

Still waiting on a response.