08/10/08

How can a place that sells COFFEE not provide a bathroom?!

by fairylights

All I have to say is this. I went in search of a coffeehouse where I could sit comfortably with my laptop, people-watch, and write my script. I found the Starbucks on Melrose to be perfect for watching the types of people I want to develop for my script wander the shops in arguably one of the most eclectic areas in California. After five cups of black coffee, a dozen pages and a bottled water I started twitching uncomfortably in my seat and went in search of the bathroom. Guess what? They didn't have one. I put my laptop in my cars trunk and went in search of a bathroom, my bladder growing heavier by the second. As it turns out, the only place to offer a bathroom on that end of Melrose is the chain restaurant Johnny Rockets, whose ladies room (surprise!) was out of order. At that point I didnt care about propriety and dashed into the mens room, which fortunately is a single.

After that, I decided that I should find another people-watching coffee shop. I don't understand how a corporation as large as Starbucks can open a shop in the middle of one of the most artistically minded areas in the state, and not offer a bathroom for the writers who love the convenience of free wireless internet, comfy couches, and endless cups of steaming coffee. I would think they would want to encourage customers to stay for long periods of time and spend more money - but even with the wireless access and the delicious mocha lattes, I think I'll head on down to the Bourgeois Pig to do my writing... at least there I won't wet myself and ruin my afternoon meetings.

• Pros: Free wireless access, comfy couches, yummy Lattes
• Cons: No bathroom! Parking can be an issue during prime hours