• 1. Richer espresso mix. Starbucks espresso machines have been recalibrated to mix a stronger dose. It's not as powerful as Peet's, but it's more in that direction. My daily triple-shot tastes a lot thicker.
• 2. Shot glasses. Instead of pouring directly into your cup, all shots are now dispensed into clear glass shot glasses. The barista must visually approve the shot before pouring it into a cup. This not only checks the mix, it prevents stale, crema-free shots from being served after lying around too long.
• 3. Smaller steamer pitchers. No more giant tub-o-foam, but rather smaller batches of steamed milk and foam more tailored and fresh to each order.

Starbucks has a new sign posted in its stores: "Your drink should be perfect, every time. If not, let us know and we'll make it right." A lofty goal. Espresso shots are now being poured into shot glasses first, instead of directly into your cup. The theory is that baristas will be able to tell if the espresso is too strong or weak before schlepping it to you, at the expense of a few seconds of prep time. Unfortunately for purists, Starbucks will still be using automatic espresso machines, but Ann-Marie Kurtz, Starbucks' manager of global coffee and tea education — does that fit on a business card? — says "it's not as simple as pushing a button."

Did you go to Starbucks today? Was your cup somehow more perfect today than it was before yesterday? Do share in the comments.

(Photo by AP/Eric Risberg)