The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Milan (Italy) is the crown jewel of Starbucks in Europe. It is rightfully considered the best and most beautiful Starbucks store in the world.
Starbucks is the world’s largest coffeehouse chain; as of November 2021, the company had 33,833 stores in 80 countries. So it is quite difficult to figure out which of them is the most beautiful. In Italy, there are only 20 Starbucks stores (as of 2022).
wHY in MILAN?
In the words of Howard Schultz, chairman emeritus of Starbucks: “During my first trip to Milan in 1983, I was captivated by the sense of community I found in the city’s espresso bars. The moments of human connection that passed so freely and genuinely between baristas and their customers. The opening of the Milan Roastery is the story of Starbucks coming full circle.”
After years of preparation, the store opened to the public in 2018. It is housed in the historic and beautiful Palazzo della Poste on the Piazza Cordusio. The Palazzo is in the centre of Milan. It is located within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as the Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Teatro alla Scala.
WITH RESPECT TO ITALIAN CULTURE
The building’s interior follows Italian architecture, while the vibrant colours and design seem to salute the Milanese design scene. In the centre of the hall is a fully functioning coffee roaster, which fills the room with the aroma of freshly roasted coffee.
Starbucks’ premium Reserve brand uses rare and exotic, high-quality Arabica coffees ethically sourced from more than 30 countries around the world. Each coffee is handpicked by a team of Starbucks quality experts. The aim of Starbucks is for each coffee to have its own unique taste in order to provide an unforgettable taste experience.
In the central hall, to the left of the entrance, there is an Italian espresso bar, where coffee is served according to the tradition of Italian coffee houses. At this spot, you will not find the typical coffee drinks of Starbucks.
Also in the roastery area, Starbucks collaborates with Italian baker Rocco Princi, making his artisanal, freshly baked food. There is a wood-fired oven using an ancient technique, and customers can see the preparation of bread and other baked goods.
LIKE ANY OTHER STARBUCKS
Of course, you can also get the well-known around the world Starbucks goods in addition to the outstanding aspects that have been adapted to Italian culture. There are bars where you can buy all the famous, iconic drinks of the chain. Also, you can try their popular snacks and sweets, and buy products with the Starbucks and Roastery logos.
Apart from the interior, there are also a series of tables in the area outside. Everything works as self-service, as is the firm policy of the company.
A SUCCESS STORY
Even if you don’t like Starbucks and you are in Milan, you have to visit this great place. This is a unique case where an international chain actually subdues its image to create a product that respects the country’s culture. It is an example of successful marketing that finally made Italians overcome their misgivings and accept Starbucks.
Although full of tourists and with thousands of photos on social media, Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milano does not lose its identity and maintains its beauty.
There is no doubt that the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Milan is the best Starbucks store in the world.
