tara
Google
We stopped by the starbucks in yosemite valley about 15 minutes before closing yesterday, doors were open and they were still taking customers. S/o to Paula, the woman who took our order, she was an absolute sweetheart, very kind, accommodating, and professional. She deserves the recognition.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the other two staff members working that evening. From the start, their demeanor was unfriendly and unprofessional. When I politely inquired about the possibility of a coffee traveler for our group, the woman with pigtails responded curtly and dismissively saying they can't do so and I completely understood because it is near closing but the attitude from this woman (and her male co worker ) continued throughout our visit.
As we waited alongside other customers waiting for their orders, these two employees were whispering quietly to one another, visibly annoyed, and making faces, not only were they rude to Paula (who politley asked them to uphold sanitary regulations and the male coworker replied with a a laugh and mocked her saying "you're so european") but to the customers who stood patiently waiting as well. I can't say how may times the other female worker rolled her eyes, dramatically sighed and rudely stared while customers stood patiently waiting. When I got my black coffees I went to the condiment station for half-and-half, which wasn't there, so I went to the baristas and politely and directly asked them but they barely acknowledged me even after hearing me and making eye contact during the interaction. After waiting a few minutes to see if they would eventually bring out the half and half I approached Paula and she immediately helped with a smile.
When we left, I made a point to thank both baristas , knowing they could be having a bad day and its understandable however the only response I received was a rude and dismissive nod and them making faces at one another. Not a single “you’re welcome.”
For staff working in such a high-traffic, world-renowned national park, where visitors travel from all over the world, this type of customer interaction is not acceptable. Everyone has tough days, but professionalism and basic courtesy should always be part of the job.
I want to emphasize that Paula was outstanding and professional, she deserves praise. However, the behavior of the other two employees left a very negative impression on what should have been a simple, pleasant stop.