@Crock...oh, I totally agree that they are simply a consistent OK. And I'm talking about straight coffee drinks, not the blended super sweet shits. I barely spend 50 in there over the course of a year. Usually when travelling and a decent shop is nowhere to be found. So yeah, there is still a place for them in our society. It's a gateway to better if people want better.
I am super spoiled living in Seattle. Coffee is a thing well beyond SB. Oh, and their "flagship" store was the worst cup I've ever had. Not worth the 30+ minute wait.
There are a couple of coffee shops here in Dallas that I make special trips for when I visit. Looks like I have some catching up to do when I get back.
Now, if anyone knows where I can get a good siphon pot around these parts... It's a date!