☕ Dunkin’ vs. Starbucks: A Very Boston Love Story
Why Dunkin’ Is Practically a State Symbol
In Massachusetts, “grabbing a coffee” is basically code for “heading to Dunks.” We don’t even bother with the full name anymore — it’s just Dunks, like it’s a cousin we see every day. And with close to 1,100 Dunkin’ locations across the state, outnumbering Starbucks 4‑to‑1, it’s not exactly hard to find one. Honestly, you could blindfold someone, spin them around, and they’d still bump into a Dunkin’ before they hit a mailbox.
Starbucks? That’s for Visitors
Look, Starbucks has its place… mostly in airports and places where people say “cof-fee” instead of “caw-fee.” But here? In Boston? Walking into a Starbucks feels like announcing you think Tom Brady was “pretty good, I guess.” It’s not wrong, but it’s definitely suspicious.
Starbucks drinks come with names longer than the Mass Pike. Meanwhile, Dunkin’ gives you a medium regular and sends you on your way. No dissertations required.
Dunks Is a Lifestyle, Not a Beverage
Dunkin’ is woven into the daily rhythm of New England life — early‑morning commutes, post‑game pick‑me‑ups, and that comforting moment when the person behind the counter knows your order before you open your mouth. It’s the only drive‑thru where you’ll see someone in pajama pants, a Bruins hoodie, and flip‑flops in January, and no one bats an eye.
The Commercials Are Basically Local Cinema
And the ads? Pure gold.
We’ve got Gronk and Big Papi singing like they’re auditioning for a musical nobody asked for.
We’ve got Ben Affleck showing up like the unofficial mayor of Dunkin’, running the drive‑thru, handing out orders, and looking like he’s living his best life. And yes, yes that is Tom Brady. These aren’t commercials — they’re documentaries of the Boston soul.
So… Who Wants a Dunks Run
Starbucks may have its fans, but here in Massachusetts, Dunkin’ isn’t just coffee. It’s identity. It’s culture. It’s home.
And now I kinda want a donut.
I love Dunkin’ Donuts coffee. I can’t stand Starbucks. Not only are they expensive but their coffee is horrible. We had both at thr Commissary in Germany. Having said that, Krispy Kreme is my all time favorite for donuts. I don’t eat donuts that often but when I do I want to get them from Krispy Kreme right when they turn on the “hot” sign and eat one or two in the car while they are still hot. Yummy!
It is still not easy to get a Krispy Kreme Donut in Mass. We had a couple of locations for awhile, One in the Medford T station if I remember right but I think they’ve all closed down now. I love Krisy Kreme too. Those donuts are so light and yummy, I guess they are still primarily a southern treat.