Disappointing Starbucks Reserve Experience at 1 Utama — Great Beans, Poor Execution

I dropped by Starbucks 1 Utama for my usual afternoon coffee fix. As someone who frequently visits Starbucks Reserve outlets across Malaysia, I was excited to try a new single-origin bean. I’d been eyeing the Laos beans and was eager for the full Reserve experience – but what I got fell far short.

Things started going downhill at the ordering counter. One barista told me the Laos beans were not available, but when I placed my order, another staff said they were. Confused but hopeful, I proceeded. What truly shocked me was at the brewing counter — the same barista who initially told me Laos wasn’t available went ahead to brew Indonesian beans without even informing me. When I stopped him to clarify, another barista stepped in and, to everyone’s surprise, found the Laos beans. This mishandling showed a severe lapse in professionalism and training.

I had selected the siphon brew method to enjoy the craft experience. Sadly, that too was handled poorly. The barista poured in the grounds after the water had already risen, showing unfamiliarity with the proper process. There was no pre-brewing bean aroma introduction, a Reserve hallmark I’ve come to expect. When the coffee was finally served, it came without the signature blend card or chocolate. I had to ask for both, only to be handed a crumpled card and told the chocolate had run out.

Despite all this, the coffee itself was still enjoyable — medium roast with subtle notes of coconut and ginger, aromatic and smooth.

The ambiance inside the café was classic Starbucks — cozy and inviting. But the poor execution at this outlet really took away from what could’ve been a great Reserve experience.

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Post by Crumpled Nomad | Jun 18, 2025