The Tribulations Of Starbucks Cup Sizes
When I first started ordering coffee from Starbucks, I refused to go by their “Short*”/“Tall”/“Grande”/“Venti” classifications. I couldn't stand the pretension of having cup sizes in another language. And I was downright offended by “Venti”, which they went so far as to trademark (even though it's just Italian for “twenty” (as in 20oz (except in the case of cold drinks - or in Canada - when a Venti is 24oz))). WTF, am I wrong?
So, like so many other snooty-but-not-too-snooty-for-Starbucks coffee drinkers, I'd order a “Medium” coffee. Everyone was happy - the cashiers (contrary to popular belief) always understood that what I really wanted was their median size - a Grande, while I got to feel smug at not buying into their marketing-speak.
But something still bothered me. When I ask for a large iced coffee, should I receive a Venti™? Or a Grande - 'cause isn't “Grande”, after all, Italian for “large”?
So: lately I've been asking for a sixteen-ounce coffee when I get there. I have yet to have a server not hesitate upon hearing my order. I am an asshole.
* No relation.
So, like so many other snooty-but-not-too-snooty-for-Starbucks coffee drinkers, I'd order a “Medium” coffee. Everyone was happy - the cashiers (contrary to popular belief) always understood that what I really wanted was their median size - a Grande, while I got to feel smug at not buying into their marketing-speak.
But something still bothered me. When I ask for a large iced coffee, should I receive a Venti™? Or a Grande - 'cause isn't “Grande”, after all, Italian for “large”?
So: lately I've been asking for a sixteen-ounce coffee when I get there. I have yet to have a server not hesitate upon hearing my order. I am an asshole.
* No relation.