When I was living here in 2000 and the first Starbucks opened in Central, I was elated. Each time I walked in, I felt like Dorothy must have when she clicked her heels and returned to Kansas. The smell, especially, transported me back to Seattle and everything tasted just like home.
Now, Starbucks is ubiquitous here, but they've made some changes to accommodate the local consumer preferences. The buildings and ambiance are just like what we are used to in the States, but the drinks are very different. The Asian palate is used to flavors that are more pungent and bitter, while the American palate prefers foods that are quite sweet in comparison. When you order your Frappuccinos or sweetened drinks, you will have to add your own sugar or sweetener if you want it to taste more like what we are used to drinking.
This Starbucks is my new favorite, located in TST on the promenade just past the Intercontinental Hotel. Its view is one of the most amazing in the world, even on a very hazy (read 'polluted') day like today. Where else can you sip your espresso and watch a sampan go by? I'll have to go one evening to see the lights from this perfect vantage point.
Thank you., Mr. Schultz, for this fabulous treat in Hong Kong.
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