If I had to choose, I'd go with Starbucks over DD. DD's coffee is too weak and watery for my taste - I prefer a really dark, strong coffee (and I only drink decaf!). I think of Starbucks as the "McDonalds" of the gormet coffee crowd - very processed and standardized. It's great if there's not a reliable coffee shop around, but if I get a chance I'd pick Peet's, Caribou, or Seattle's Best over Starbucks. Better yet, my small, locally owned corner coffee shop where they learn my name and my favorite drink and let me hang out for hours!