Starbucks Opens at the Base

Sure, if you're at work you want a break. Spend a little time at the Orange Avenue Starbucks and you see military personnel running in for their caffeine boost all day long. 

But if they're at Naval Air Station North Island, they won't have to anymore. Starbucks opened on base Sept. 30, and officials celebrated at a formal ceremony Wednesday.

The addition has been in the works for about two years, said Nancy Walker, regional marketing director for Navy Region Southwest's community support programs.

This coffee house, on Quay Road near the carrier pier, is a little different though. Profits will benefit the Navy's Morale, Welfare and Recreation Division, which offers social and community activities for active-duty, reserve and retired Navy personnel and their families.

“Starbucks may well help pay for the Liberty Center,” Walker said of the space set aside for single sailors to socialize.

MWR also benefits from a Starbucks at Naval Station San Diego. The menu has been tailored to North Island as well, with more breakfast and lunch offerings than typical Starbucks outlets.