This is my local McDonald's. Never had a bad experience here, but today I had an exceptional experience. It's fast food, so the food is never going to be great. However, I did have excellent service in the form of Ely, who took my order.
So, McDonald's is trying to cut into the market share of places like Starbucks and Peet's by offering a few coffee drinks that are similar to what you can get at those places. They charge less, as their items are not equivalents, just a less expensive substitute. I get that I'm going to have to pay more if I want higher quality and more options for customizing my drink (e.g., half-caff soy latte).
Also, McD's has been promoting their hot caramel mocha lately. While I am more of a frappe girl (yes, even during the winter -- hey, I live in CA and am in denial that winter's even here -- as of today, in fact), I like the combination of flavors offered in their hot drink. (I'm a Libra and can't ever make up my mind.)
I've asked in the past at other locations and at this one if they could possibly make me a caramel mocha frappe. Each time, the same answer: NO. Although this didn't come as a surprise at a fast food restaurant where the emphasis is on fast, I kept trying. Everything is kind of pre-made and all prep is very formulaic, so I understand. Still, I asked Ely today if they could make one for me. He first gave me the expected answer, but after further consideration, he said he'd check for me. Ah, somebody who really understands the meaning of CUSTOMER service. I was so excited that he was thinking outside of the box, that I didn't even care if I actually got my drink. He consulted with the manager (or maybe just a fellow employee) and returned with the also expected "no." While I was eavesdropping on their conversation, I got an idea. It sounded like they could put half of each type of frozen drink into my cup, thus achieving pretty much what I was looking for. This was good enough for me. So, I asked him if they could do this instead. He said he thought it would work and went back over to the same person, advocated on my behalf, and got them to make it for me. They even put both chocolate AND caramel syrup on the whipped cream topping my drink. (I came during a slow time, so no, he wasn't inconveniencing other customers.)
I'm actually a bit surprised McDonald's hasn't thought to offer this drink themselves, but maybe they'll eventually catch on. In the meantime, I will try to find Ely working again so I can get my very own custom coffee drink here.
On another note, I've recently developed a disturbing craving for the McRib. I don't know why this is -- it's not like it's wonderful -- but I just hope they take it off the menu again soon, so I don't OD on it.
Also, I suspect the sign about only 2 refills has a story behind it that the reviewer from outside the area doesn't know. You know, like obnoxious kids and/or homeless visitors overstaying their welcome for hours at a time and possibly driving away other paying customers. Obviously somebody has taken advantage. Besides, how many people really need more than two servings of a soft drink at a time?
Thanks again, Ely! read more