Dog owners, wait outside; they'll bring the coffee to you
Life just got a little easier for those who like to enjoy a cup of coffee while walking their dog s in the South End.
A sign at the entrance to the
"Because we are located in such a cozy residential neighborhood, please do not leave lonely puppies unattended," states the message, which is written in multicolored chalk and includes the store's phone number. "Their barking may disturb our friendly neighbors. Please feel free to call your orders in, one of our baristas will gladly bring it out to you."
The curbside-delivery service is an experimental measure to deal with the problem of customers leaving their dogs outside the store, unattended, while they purchase their coffee and pastries. According to Starbucks Corp., the effort is in response to neighborhood complaints about dog s barking.
"The Starbucks store located at 627 Tremont St. has found a way to be respectful of neighborhood complaints and still serve a premium cup of coffee," a Starbucks representative stated in an e-mail. "Pet lovers at this location can now have their coffee brought to them outside, so they don't have to leave their dog when they order."
Residents of the area who spoke with City Weekly were both intrigued and pleased with the action. "I think it's a pretty good idea, especially in the South End where there are so many pets," said Greg Griffin, a South End resident who was walking his two dogs, Olive and Mia, down Tremont Street. "It's a real safety issue for the dogs . . . and they really don't like being left alone."
MICHAEL CORCORAN 