Starbucks is far too urbane to promote the “billions and billions” of espresso shots its baristas have served up since the corporation was formed in Seattle back in 1987. Yet in just 15 years, Starbucks has redefined America’s coffee-drinking culture, as well as the once-monolithic burger and taco fast-food landscape.
At more than $4 a cup, with tax and tip, a single cup of mocha rivals a value meal at McDonald’s, which includes soft drink, sandwich, and fries. And with caffeine as the magnet, St…