I thought the same. I’ve been to Starbucks many times waiting for someone...And I’ve just walked into the restroom without asking. Why would you ask to use the restroom?
Possibly because the restroom was locked and you had to get the key from the clerk.
I' often used the restroom FIRST, before I order the coffee. What's the point of carrying it to the restroom with you after you've ordered, or hoping it doesn't get bused from the table by staff while you're away?
I thought the same. I’ve been to Starbucks many times waiting for someone...And I’ve just walked into the restroom without asking. Why would you ask to use the restroom?
Because in many areas the Starbuck’s restrooms are locked and you have to ask for a key.
Some locations lock the doors.
In urban areas, like this one, when you leave bathrooms unlocked, they fill up with homeless people.