Costa 2 - Basingstoke and Deane

I recently visited the Costa Coffee in Basingstoke for the first time, located across from Sainsbury's in town. It was a one-time experience for me as I was disappointed with my visit. I tried to order a slice of lemon cake, a coffee, a hot chocolate, and a slice of carrot cake, but was told they were being saved for the next day, so I was unable to purchase them. I did not enjoy the coffee or hot chocolate that I did end up ordering, so I left without any desire to return. It was only 3pm, so I believe those cakes could have been sold that day. I understand if this is standard practice for coffee shops, but I personally do not think it is good business.

This restaurant is a nice and peaceful spot to unwind after a shopping spree. There is plenty of space inside, so you don't feel crowded like in some other coffee shops. The staff is very friendly and accommodating.

There are two costa’s in Festival Place. We’ve been to both but prefer this one located on the upper floor as it’s usually less busy. Had hot drinks and lunch snacks barrista took the drinks order, heated the toastie/sausage roll and brought everything to our table. Good spot to rest your feet after wandering around the shops!

We arrived at 17:05 (they close at 18:00) to find the floor wet where they have started cleaning, and all the cakes in the cabinet covered. Since we were unable to see the cakes, we had to purchase a packaged biscuit instead. We ordered 2 teas with soy milk and were told that it would have to be in takeaway cups. This seemed strange as it was still nearly an hour till they closed but we didn’t argue. When handed the teas, we noticed the server had poured the soy milk in (without asking how much we wanted) and when we took the lid off it was basically a cup of milky water. Now I’m the kind of person who enjoys a builders brew (strong) so was not impressed. Took them back to the counter and politely asked for another to be made as it was too milky to drink. Without saying a word, the surly server took them away and proceeded to make new ones, in between other jobs. An apology would have been nice, for the inconvenience. When the new teas were done (filled in a large takeaway cup with way too much water for 2 teabag) we were presented with the soy milk in a separate cup this time which was helpful. The sugar sachets they give you are far too small. For someone who usually has 2 teaspoons, I had 3 sachets and still couldn’t taste the sugar. But I wasn’t going to go up again. We forced back about half of the ‘tea’ before deciding to leave. It really wasn’t drinkable. Very disappointing all we wanted was to finish off the shopping trip with a lovely relaxed cup of tea. Instead we got something I wouldn’t serve my dog, and terrible customer service. Moral of the story the staff don’t want you there within an hour of closing, and coffee shops can’t make tea!!!! Won’t be returning. Best thing about it was the packaged gingerbread man!

Popped in here following a bit of shopping. Good to have a light lunch and a coffee. Service was fine and the food was heated well. Just wish they wouldn’t alway try and up sell the more expensive coffee beans.... very tasty.