Breakfast is a key part of many people’s daily routines. With increasing numbers of people finally coming to accept this, there has been a rise in the popularity of breakfast-related commercialism, a move that may–to a large part–be exacerbating the popularity of brands such as Dunkin and Starbucks. From their food selections to their drinks, their drive-thru’s to the ambiance of their interior spaces, both brands have their unique approach to giving us what our groggy morning selves most want. This raises a question: which one does it better?
Coffee
These two coffee chains both offer a similar array of drinks, including cold brews, lattes, and drip coffees. Dunkin’s price range for their coffee is about $1.59 to $4.99, close to Starbucks coffee which ranges from $1.95$ to around $4.45.
“I like Starbucks coffee better than Dunkin, in my opinion, it tastes better and I love their holiday coffees better,” says junior Bella Contacessa.
Starbucks opens its holiday menu starting in early September, and it lets the customers get excited for the upcoming months. On the other hand, Dunkin rolled out its holiday menu on Nov. 2 this year. The two chains have similar prices, but Starbucks has a more unique menu than Dunkin, giving it a slight, early edge in the breakfast war.
Popular Food Options
These two stores both offer very different food options. Dunkin offers donuts, munchkins, and hashbrowns, but Starbucks offers cake pops, coffee cakes, and wraps.
“I like Starbucks breakfast sandwiches and cake pops, it’s easy to get right before school and I can save it for lunch and it is still good to eat,” says junior Sarah Napier.
Both Dunkin and Starbucks have many good options to eat depending on what mood you are in. Dunkin’s food is more for immediate consumption than the snack-like offerings of Starbucks, which one can save for later.
Starbucks offers higher-ranking food options compared to Dunkin Donuts because of its variety, and healthier choices. Starbucks has a wide variety of breakfast sandwiches like the Egg, Pesto, and Mozzarella sandwich, which combines rich flavors making it more appetizing than what Dunkin offers. Starbucks also caters to people with dietary preferences, including options like their kale and mushroom egg bites, and a spinach, feta, and egg white wrap. These healthy alternatives help Starbucks outshine its muffin and donut-peddling competitors. With that said, Starbucks’ bakery options–cake pops and loafs included– always seem to taste fresher than anything I’ve sampled from a Dunkin.
For me, someone looking for both flavor and convenience, the ability to be able to grab a portable healthy or unhealthy meal at Starbucks makes it a much better option.
Popular Drink Options
Dunkin and Starbucks are also known for more drinks than just their coffees. Both stores have refreshers, hot chocolates, and matcha. Both stores have great options, it depends on what you like, “I love the strawberry açai refreshers from Starbucks, it tastes so good and they are my go-to drink,” says sophomore Mackenzie Bryan. Both stores offer many drink options and are both affordable.
The ambiance:
The ambiance in Starbucks and Dunkin differ in terms of atmosphere and customer service. Dunkin tends to have a brighter, more casual setting, with quick service for the pick-up-and-go customers. Starbucks has a more cozy vibe, with soft music in the background, and comfy seating, creating a place for people to relax and socialize. Location-wise, Starbucks location encourages customers to come in, offering an inviting environment for meetings. However, for Dunkin, the chain tries to create an efficient and practical area, mainly catering to a fast-paced crowd. Dunkin’s decor opts for more functional designs, whereas Starbuck’s decor is very warm-toned with a more modern aesthetic. In general, Starbucks is a cafe-like environment, while Dunkin Donuts has a more practical straightforward grab-and-go experience.
While both these chains offer similar coffee drinks and affordable prices, Starbucks is a better option with its diverse food options and a more inviting ambiance. Their superb menu lets people know they are inclusive of people who have dietary restrictions and preferences, paired with its cozy atmosphere making it a better choice for those seeking a variety of food options, a place to relax, and convenience.
