• Source:JND
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Starbucks recently opened its first outlet in Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi. Despite initial scepticism about a high-end coffee chain’s viability in a smaller Indian city, a video circulating on social media has proven the doubters wrong. 

A video showed long queues outside the newly opened Starbucks, located at Narottam Nagar Colony, where people thronged to get a taste of the renowned coffee. In addition, multiple vehicles were also seen parked outside the store, indicating a strong customer response in the historic town. 

The video was shared by an X user, Aaraynsh, who humorously captioned it: ''People earlier: Starbucks wouldn’t succeed in small towns because nobody would buy a ₹300 coffee. Meanwhile Varanasi'' 

Reactions to the video varied. One user acknowledged that the initial rush might be due to the opening ceremony and people coming to post snaps and pictures of the store on their social media profiles.

Another user noted that while early queues might be for Instagram-worthy moments, genuine coffee lovers would sustain the business. The Starbucks outlet in Indore faced similar initial queues when it started, the user asserted.

Despite the perception of Varanasi as a small town, it has become a tourist magnet for both national and international visitors. The city boasts two universities, including one affiliated with IIT and is represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in parliament. This context challenges the notion that Indian consumers shy away from spending; they appreciate value and status.

Internet users were left in awe by the royal-themed design of the new Starbucks outlet. The company creatively restored an old structure, transforming it into an aesthetic outlet. Pictures and videos shared online highlighted the store's architecture and ambience.