Starbucks

oh....what a nice environment for drinks and meet up.

It is located between oak and rush street as new Starbucks location - about a month ago.

First floor is same as other Starbucks - nothing new.

Second floor - I LOVE it! They serve your drink (coffee, tea) in mug cup and bring it to your seat. They have nice bite, small plates like truffle mac and cheese, flat bread, cashews and hummus dip with list of nice wine list. A lot of people bring their computer and work/read here. Today is my first day visit, I am sure I will come here very often.

Only downside for second floor is if you want other style of coffee and menu of Starbucks, (outside of clover coffee, wine and small bites), you need to go down to 1st floor and order there and bring it with you.

It seems that this store recently opened as the new flagship Starbucks location in Chicago.

On the first level there is a typical Starbucks store, although the design is slightly updated from the norm, and the fixtures look to be of higher quality.  The place looks a bit more chic than a typical 'Bux.  I was delighted enough with such nice surroundings, and began looking for the restroom when a barista let me know it was upstairs.  As I ascended those stairs, I expected a typical cafe 'upstairs'--basically a study-hall for adults.  What I found was surprising.  

The second level was filled with posh people nibbling on bits of food and reading newspapers--also in a slightly upscale environment. It felt more like a cozy and low key lounge than a cafe.  The level has its own coffee-bar replete with ultra-premium coffee selections and well-groomed and kind baristae.  In warm weather there is a nice outside terrace overlooking Rush St., and for the cooler times there is a not-overdone modern gas fireplace.

My drink, served in a ceramic mug (I didn't even ask), was perfectly made and delivered to my seat by an attentive barista.  It looks like this place also transforms itself into a night spot with fancy fresh appetizers and a good beer and wine selection.  If this is the future of Starbucks, I am looking forward to a wider roll-out across the network.  I am a fan.