AS
Alexander Shoda
Jun 10, 2026
I would like to share an experience that occurred today, Wednesday, June 10, at approximately 11:00 AM at the Dunkin' location on Universal Boulevard in Orlando, Florida.
I ordered a cappuccino and expected to receive a beverage prepared according to the standard definition of a cappuccino: espresso shots extracted from an espresso machine, combined with steamed milk and topped with milk foam.
Instead, I was initially handed a large brewed coffee. Assuming it was simply an order mix-up, I politely informed the employee that I had ordered a cappuccino. At that point, the employee attempted to use the same brewed coffee and add steamed milk to it. I explained that a cappuccino is not made from brewed drip coffee with milk added.
The employee then prepared another cup, but once again started with brewed coffee and added milk. What concerned me most was when the store manager informed me that this was how Dunkin' prepares cappuccinos. As a regular coffee consumer and someone familiar with espresso-based beverages, this response was surprising and concerning.
A cappuccino is universally recognized as an espresso-based drink. Whether it is served at a local coffee shop, a specialty café, or a national chain, the foundation of a cappuccino is espresso—not filtered or drip coffee. While recipes and proportions may vary slightly, the use of espresso is the defining characteristic of the beverage.
I want to make it very clear that neither my complaint nor my concern is directed toward the employee or the manager personally. In fact, both individuals were courteous, respectful, and willing to accommodate my request. After our discussion, they offered to prepare the drink the way I requested and treated me professionally throughout the interaction.
My concern is that there may be a misunderstanding, a training issue, or perhaps a procedural inconsistency at this location regarding the preparation of espresso-based beverages. If customers are ordering and paying for cappuccinos but are instead receiving brewed coffee with milk, that creates confusion and does not meet the expectations associated with the product being advertised and sold.
As a customer, I value consistency and quality. One of the advantages of visiting a national brand such as Dunkin' is the expectation that products will be prepared according to established standards regardless of location. For that reason, I hope this review reaches the appropriate quality assurance, training, or operations team so that they can verify the procedures being followed at this store and provide clarification if necessary.
Again, I appreciate the kindness and professionalism shown by the staff during my visit. My intention is not to criticize the employees, but rather to bring attention to what appears to be a potential issue in beverage preparation standards that may affect many customers.
Finally, I would respectfully request an official clarification regarding Dunkin's standard cappuccino preparation process. Could you please confirm whether Dunkin's cappuccinos are supposed to be prepared using espresso shots from an espresso machine or brewed drip coffee? I would greatly appreciate a response from your Quality Assurance, Training, or Operations Department so that I can better understand the company's official standard and ensure that my experience was not the result of a misunderstanding or incorrect preparation procedure.
Thank you for taking the time to review this feedback. I look forward to your response. :::