As it's the largest coffee chain in the UK, most people have likely been into a Costa at least once in their life.
With more than 10 physical coffee shops — not to mention the drive thru and express outlets — Glasgow isn't short of Costa shops.
While chains such as Costa and Starbucks are known for being broadly similar up and down the UK, there are still small variations from store to store.
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With factors like staff, ambience, and cleanliness varying between branches, some Costas are more well regarded than others.
To investigate which of the Glasgow coffee spots were the most — and least — popular, we took a look at TripAdvisor, where each one has been assigned a rating out of five based on scores from visitors.
We also took a sample review from each one, to give you an idea of what customers think.
According to the online travel company, here are all of the Glasgow Costa shops ranked from worst to best.
Robroyston, Robroyston Retail Park
Rating: 2.5/5
Number of reviews: 15
At the bottom of the list, and the only Costa here with a rating of 2.5 out of 5, is the coffee shop at the Robroyston Retail Park. Having more one-star scores than any other rating, it's fair to say that many customers weren't happy with their time spent here. The "rude staff" and "drab surroundings" were particular sore spots.
What one customer said: "Went to the Costa about 2.15pm Sat 7.8.21. The restaurant did not appear busy. There was a sign on the front door stating no more than 63 people in. There was about 25 maximum. As we entered a female member of staff stopped us and advised that there were no tables free. We could get a takeaway coffee if we wanted. Obviously not, thats why we came in. There was no explanation or attempt to assist. Ie take a seat outside and when a table becomes free, or we'll clean a table for you. Customer service nil point . I am a regular visitor to Costa so have become used to a certain standard of service. This failed on all points, so had to go to McDonalds nearby, who were happy to assist, very helpful. Costa staff take note and back to the drawing board with customer service course, book yourself in for a course."
Auldhouse Retail Park, Cogan Street
Rating: 3/5
Number of reviews: 1
With only one review, there isn't much to go on with this Costa, which is why it's ranked lower than the other three-out-of-five shops. The one TripAdvisor user that has thus far left a review described it as "fine".
What one customer said: "This Costa is housed in Auldhouse Retail Park and not surprisingly looks like a converted warehouse. The inside is a bright coffee shop with lots of lighting. The staff are nice, the coffee and food is to the usual Costa standard. The same can't be said for the furnishing though. There's more cheap wooden chairs than is usual for Costa, so the place feels a lot less "upmarket" compared to the average Costa Coffee."
Forge Shopping Centre, 1221 Gallowgate
Rating: 3/5
Number of reviews: 6
Having six TripAdvisor reviews, there's a bit more to work with here. Customers praised the location in the Forge Shopping Centre as perfect for "people watching", and "friendly" service, but some had issues with the "disgusting" cakes.
What one customer said: "This Costa is in the Forge Shopping Centre and right in the middle in the centre of the concourse. So it is an open air cafe in an enclosed space. Fine for people watching with a coffee. The coffee was good though some of the chairs could be more comfortable. Ok for a coffee when shopping here but that's about all."
St. Enoch Centre, 55 St. Enoch Square
Rating: 3/5
Number of reviews: 42
While the "slow" service and "dirty" seating were commented on, in general most TripAdvisor users were generally satisfied with their trip to the St. Enoch Centre Costa. Most were in agreement that the staff were at least friendly.
What one customer said: "Easy to find if you are coming in off the St Enoch centre. Like most Costa Coffee shops pretty standard but can be busy and tables not always cleared. Not the best."
Argyle Street, 377 Argyle Street
Rating: 3.5/5
Number of reviews: 13
Most customers on TripAdvisor were in agreement that the Costa on Argyle Street is fairly middle of the road. While one user called out the "extremely aggressive and rude" staff, most others agreed that the service was "quick and efficient".
What one customer said: "This place is average. Didn’t like the brownies. Not very nice coffee but the good thing is that the staff are nice."
Gordon Street, 79 Gordon Street
Rating: 3.5/5
Number of reviews: 38
Unlike Argyle Street, this Costa has a very polarising response on TripAdvisor — receiving an equal number of 1/5 and 5/5 ratings. The staff — which were called both "very rude" and "friendly and welcoming" — and food on offer were particular points of contention.
What one customer said: "Been here a couple of times. The duck hoisen wrap and crisps were average. Place was quite busy. Prices okay."
Sauchiehall Street, 205 Sauchiehall Street
Rating: 3.5/5
Number of reviews: 60
Given its location on Sauchiehall Street, it's unsurprising that this Costa is among the most reviewed in Glasgow. The "lovely" coffee and cake, as well as the "efficient" service, were all praised, but some took issue with the level of cleanliness in the coffee shop.
What one customer said: "Lovely coffee, service was good and efficient. Will be back again when visiting in the future. Was very busy which was a good sign."
St Vincent Street, 6767 St Vincent Street
Rating: 4/5
Number of reviews: 17
The first Costa on this list to receive an average rating of four out of five, the shop St Vincent Street was mostly praised by TripAdvisor users for its "good coffee" and clean interior. While a few customers had small niggles with the "so-so" staff and lack of cosiness, there are currently no 1/5 or 2/5 ratings on the website.
What one customer said: "This Costa is prominantly located on the corner and it's large windows and high ceiling make it nice and airy, if not vert 'cosy'. Service is good and you can usually find a table of your choice here although it does get busy."
The Avenue, 250 Ayr Road
Rating: 4/5
Number of reviews: 28
Unlike the Costa on St Vincent Street, the one at The Avenue Shopping Centre has a few negative reviews — criticising its "filthy tables" and "disgusting" toilets — they were counteracted by the large number of 5/5 ratings. Most customers praised the "cosy" ambience and "lovely" staff.
What one customer said: "Lovely staff and good service consistently. I am a very regular customer and always a pleasure to come in thought i would write a review as during tough times it’s difficult for everyone"
Bothwell Street, 50 Bothwell Street
Rating: 4/5
Number of reviews: 44
Coming in at second place is the Costa on Bothwell Street. While some recent negative reviews have lowered its score a bit, the Costa has received numerous 4/5 and 5/5 reviews — mostly praising the "fantastic" and "excellent" service.
What one customer said: "When you go to Costa you know what you’re getting. Friendly staff, great coffee and made to feel like you’re part of the family."
Royal Exchange Square, 10 Royal Exchange Square
Rating: 4/5
Number of reviews: 88
The clear winner, with double the amount of reviews as second place, is the Costa on Royal Exchange Square. Its "relaxing atmosphere", "warm and friendly" staff, and "clean and tidy" interior — not to mention the "great coffee".
What one customer said: "Best costa in Glasgow! I work regularly at the market across the road from this costa - the staff are so warm & friendly all the time! They really brighten my day!"
