Hey guys . . . calm down. We don't have to fight this battle every time anyone mentions any retail.

I have gone to many Starbucks. And, I have gone to many other chain retailers and restaurants. And, I've argued on these pages in favor of them.

The question was asked from a new person who is moving to Old City.

Starbucks is fine for people visiting Betsy Ross House, Elfreth's Alley, etc. I'm sure that many people will be much more comfortable with a national chain where they know exactly what they are gettting. I've always wished we had a similar sort of thing on Market Street, as well.

But, if you are moving into the neighborhood and want to find the places where local folks go for coffee, then the sensible thing is to direct people to Cafe Ole, Big Jar (where they can look at books, as well), Old City Coffee, etc. Hell, most people going to Betsy Ross House will never discover that OC Coffee even exists.

Each type of business has it's own value.

But, if you are living in Old City, you will probably prefer a place that makes you feel that you are in Old City rather than a store (Starbucks) that makes you feel that you could be in King of Prussia as well as Old City.

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“Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.” - Jane Jacobs