Five Black Friday Nespresso deals at Target

For those who appreciate a quick cup of espresso or a quick, handcrafted latte, these are five Nespresso coffee and espresso machine deals from Target. With the ease of curbside-pickup, shop these five appliances from the comfort of your own home.

1. Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi

The Nespresso Vertuo Next Machine is simple to use and easy to clean. With the capability to make five, eight and 14-ounce espressos, the Vertuo Next is perfect for anyone starting to drink espresso. The machine comes with a welcome set of Nespresso Vertuo capsules of different flavors. 

2. Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine Bundle by De'Longhi

Including everything you need to make handcrafted beverages, this bundle includes both the espresso machine and Aeroccino milk frother, which is used to froth milk for smoother beverages. 

3. Nespresso Vertuo Chrome by Breville 

The Nespresso Vertuo Chrome is a machine that has a sensor that recognizes the type of blend in your capsule and brews it accordingly in order to bring out the best flavor possible. Heating up in a matter of seconds, the Vertuo Chrome is perfect for those on the go. 

4. Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi

The Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso machine delivers delicious, freshly brewed coffee to consumers. Including the standard 12 capsule welcome pack, this machine is ready to use. 

5. Nespresso Vertuo Plus Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi with Aeroccino

This Vertuo Plus Machine comes with a milk frother which is perfect for making macchiatos and lattes at home. Two buttons can make traditional espressos and long-cup coffee.

Anthony Lee on managing two small coffee shops in the time of COVID-19

Anthony Lee of Hidden House Coffee (Photo/Alyssa Gervacio)

Anthony Lee loves googly eyes, food and dogs. Don't we all? Managing two locations of Hidden House Coffee in Orange County is something we can only think about, Lee lives through it every day. Currently serving at Hidden House Coffee's San Juan Capistrano location, Lee serves customers with a smile behind his mask every day. 

1. How has working during COVID-19 been since Hidden House Coffee is a smaller business?

It was a little rough in the beginning since I worked at a smaller and slower location and because of that, we had to close. The main shop in San Juan started to pick up in business so the owner has me help out there and I eventually started to manage that location! 

2. How do you deal with managing the locations?

Managing is fine honestly. I've been in a leadership position for maybe 4-5 years so I've become accustomed to it. I love building and bringing teams together and making work fun. Because, if you're not having fun at work you're not doing it right."

3. What does a regular workday look like?

My regular workday usually starts with me connecting with everyone there and saying hi! That's something that's important to me because work can become mundane and having that human connection really helps. The rest of my day is cleaning stocking and giving a great customer experience. I also connect with property management, organize and order merchandise through the company and communicate with anyone who wants to do some sort of event at the shop.

4. Why are you working at a coffee shop?

I used to work somewhere that I thought was good for me because it was a larger company with benefits. People thought it was a super cool job at the time and so did I. I realized that sometimes the most 'logical and realistic job' isn't the best one for yourself and your mental health. I left to work at a coffee shop as a normal barista but ended up becoming a manager because if my past work experience. 

5. Have any funny things happened while working here?

Oh for sure. There was a time where someone brought in a giant bag of googly eyes and we started putting them on EVERYTHING. Customers were super confused because they felt like they were constantly being watched by inanimate objects around the store. 

6. What's the best thing about your hob?

The best thing about my job is how much fun I have when I'm there. I love how work doesn't really feel like work because of how much we're always laughing. 

Starbucks barista fired for refusing to wear Pride shirt, NJ lawsuit states

A New Jersey woman named Betsy Freese refused to wear a Starbucks Pride shirt "because her religious beliefs prevented her from doing so," the lawsuit states

Upon entering a meeting with the store manager, Freese saw the box of Starbucks Pride shirts and asked the manager if employees were required to wear them, to which the manager replied with no, according to Freese. The coffee chain fired Freese on Aug. 22, 2019, as "her comportment was not in compliance with Starbucks' core values." 

Freese said that Starbucks' ethics and compliance helpline contacted Freese regarding the issue, to which Freese responded that wearing the shirt would oppose her religious beliefs. Freese filed a lawsuit against Starbucks claiming that her termination was wrongful due to the fact that Freese's manager said that wearing the shirts was not required. 

The suit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, where Freese resides. The termination notice states that Freese "stated she did not want to wear PRIDE T-shirt and that partners 'need Jesus.'"

Freese's claims are said to be "without merit," according to a Starbucks spokesperson who spoke with NBC News. Freese is seeking back pay with interest, emotional pain and suffering compensation and punitive damages. 

The lawsuit proclaims that the company tried to "exclude and silence Mrs. Freese, whose religious beliefs it deemed undesirable." 

This case is Freese v Starbucks Corp, U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey, No. 20-16567

10 Amazon Black Friday gifts for any artisanal coffee lover

From whole coffee beans to Gooseneck Kettles, these gifts are perfect for any Caffeine Junkie 

With the uncertainty of attending Black Friday in-person this year, online shopping is the best way to indulge in deals from the comfort of your own home. With Amazon being notorious for fast shipping and reasonable pricing, the online giant has an extensive catalog for their Black Friday sale this year. These 10 items are perfect for any coffee lover in your life that appreciates a perfect, hand-crafted cup of joe. 

1. SF Bay Coffee Fog Chaser Whole Bean Medium Dark Roast. 

Fog Chaser is a blend of Central and South American beans that have notes of milk chocolate, toffee and sweet mandarin. Perfect for anyone who loves to grind their own beans for optimal freshness in their morning coffee.

"SF BAY COFFEE is a family owned, American made company with a rich tradition," the SAN FRANCISCO BAY Store says. 

2. Don Francisco's Organic Cold Brew Pitcher Packs, Medium Roast, 100% Arabica Coffee.

Don Francisco's Organic Cold Brew Pitcher Packs are designed to be brewed in cold water for a strong and intense flavor. Including eight pitcher packs for a total of four batches of cold brew, crafting a batch of cold brew has never been easier to accomplish from home. 

"Delicious and refreshing served or ice, on its own, or with cream and sugar," Don Francisco's Store says.

3. Coffee Gator Stainless Steel Coffee Grounds and Beans Container Canister with Date-Tracker, CO2-Release Valve and Measuring Scoop

Perfect for anyone who appreciates a fresh cup of coffee every morning, this canister keeps beans and grounds fresh for weeks. This vacuum-sealed canister is essential for anyone who grinds their own whole coffee beans at home.

"This premium stainless steel container looks like the bee's knees and loves your tea and coffee like a Kardashian loves a selfie," Coffee Gator says.

4. Kaffe Electric Coffee Grinder   

When grinding whole beans by hand becomes too tiring, this electric coffee grinder gets the job done quickly and efficiently. Achieve the freshest possible taste by grinding your own whole coffee beans and using them in your coffee maker of choice. 

"FRESH COFFEE! Grinds whole coffee beans to fine grounds in seconds for quality home brewing using a French press, coffee percolator or other drip coffee makers," the Kaffe Store says. 

5. HadinEEon Milk Frother, four in one Electric Milk Frother and Steamer, Automatic Milk Foam Maker & Warmer

Perfect for the latte lovers of the world who want to start making their favorite drinks from home. This frother is multipurpose and compact which makes for convenient storage. 

"You can brew your favorite cappuccinos, coffee, macchiatos, lattes, hot chocolate and flat whites at home with this frother and steamer," the HadinEEon Store says. 

6. Primula Aluminum Espresso Maker

Designated for stovetop use, this espresso maker is not your typical pod brewer. Being easy to clean and use, this maker works great with freshly ground coffee beans which make for a robust and bold flavor. 

"Espresso is one of the most popular ways to consume coffee, and this espresso maker can be used to make popular and delicious recipes like cappuccinos, lattes, americanos, macchiatos and mochas," the Primula Store says.

7. Cafe Du Chateau French Press Coffee Maker

A French Press is essential for any coffee enthusiast. For those who love to be hands-on with their morning cup, this French Press delivers a satisfying brew to the consumer. Brewing coffee in a French Press makes for a stronger and bolder cup compared to using other brewing methods.

"Our system ensures you will be brewing like a barista on day one," Cafe Du Chateau says.

8. Coffee Gator Pour Over Coffee Maker

This Pour Over Coffee Maker is perfect for people who appreciate an aesthetically pleasing Instagram post. Pour Overs and smooth and simple to make, only needing coffee grounds and hot water. The flavor of a pour-over is less intense and perfect for those who prefer a lighter cup.

"Prepare your senses for a fragrant, naturally sweeter, coffee house-standard brew in your own home," Coffee Gator says. 

9. MOOSOO Electric Gooseneck Kettle 

Gooseneck Kettles are essential for Pour Over enthusiasts. Using a Gooseneck Kettle over a regular one gives the user a better experience in making their coffee due to the increased control they have over the water flow. With the adjustable temperature base, this kettle is perfect for those who love to perfect their morning cup with ease. 

"The MOOSOO Electric Gooseneck Kettle features 6 precise temperature presets, so your beverage is brewed just right," MOOSOO says. 

10. JoyJolt Savor Double Wall Insulated Glasses Espresso Mugs 

For the purists who cannot get enough of espresso, these mugs are perfect for any at-home baristas, or those who drink espresso shots straight from the machine. The mugs are made out of glass and suitable for hot and cold beverages. 

"Beautiful addition to any cafe, restaurant, pub and definitely to your own home," the JoyJolt Store says. 

These ten Black Friday items are perfect for any special coffee drinker in your life. Able to be purchased from home and shipped within a matter of days, shop online this Black Friday and stay safe this holiday season. 

Trying The Human Bean's Candied Peppermint smoothie

The Human Bean's Candied Peppermint Smoothie 

(Photo/Alyssa Gervacio)

You may be scoffing at the thought of yet another Peppermint Mocha interpretation by a coffee chain, but this is no regular seasonal favorite. The Human Bean is notorious for their handcrafted beverages which are always topped with a delicious Chocolate Covered Espresso Bean. 

The service was quick and the employees did a terrific job at navigating the menu for a first time customer. The employee at the window recommended their Candied Peppermint smoothie. 

The Candied Peppermint flavor is among the six different holiday flavors from the chain. Offered in seven different varieties, there is bound to be something for every customer in the market for a Candied Peppermint. 

Taking the first sip of the beverage, the peppermint flavor is unlike the typical 'Peppermint Mocha' sweet peppermint taste. The drink tastes almost like a York peppermint pattie. The peppermint is strong and almost hair raising but in the most delicious way possible. 

Despite being blended with both espresso and white chocolate, the peppermint steals the show and leaves the deeper flavors behind as an aftertaste. The chocolate drizzle at the bottom of the cup serves as a great treat for the end of the drink.

The beverage is extremely creamy with the consistency of a milkshake rather than an ice-blended beverage you can get at other chains. The beverage is definitely more decadent than the Peppermint Mochas that are offered at other shops.

The Candied Peppermint smoothie leaves a nice jolt of energy from the espresso and a boost of Christmas spirit. Try more holiday menu favorites and hand-crafted beverages at your local Human Bean! 

Rating: 5/5

Corner Bakery Cafe is giving out free coffee until 2021

Offer valid for one free hand-roasted coffee at participating locations until the end of 2020. 

Corner Bakery Cafe's Owner Jay Pandya, announced that the chain will offer free coffee to anyone who visits a participating store to encourage "the spirit of giving." With no purchase necessary, the offer is valid for dine-in, to go, pick up and delivery in any size, as reported by mashed.

According to an online flier from the Corner Bakery Cafe website, the offer is valid through Dec. 31. Find a participating location near you! 

"It has been a tough year for everyone and if we can be a bright spot in a world full of uncertainty - the complimentary, delicious, hand-roasted cup of coffee you can count on - then I'm all for it," said Pandya in an NBC Chicago interview. 

Customers only need to mention that they would like to use their free coffee offer during checkout. When ordering online, enter the code FREECOFFEE during checkout. 

Following social distancing rules and CDC guidelines, all Corner Bakery Cafe employees will be wearing a mask and gloves during their shift. 

Repost @foodgod: "FREE COFFEE @cornerbakery through the end of the year!! NO strings attached. FREE coffee, ALL day, EVERYday. Just visit Corner Bakery and ask for your free coffee ☕️ View details and participating locations at https://t.co/eRKuTS5S9Q" #FreeCoffeeattheCorner pic.twitter.com/KB4xfgpKpw

— cornerbakery (@CornerBakery) November 20, 2020

 

An honest review of Starbucks' infamous Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino

Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino (Photo/Alyssa Gervacio) 

It's time to break out your shiniest rain boots and coziest knitted sweaters to take a trip to your nearest Starbucks. Here in California, the cold weather is sporadic and irregular, but we like to dress for the snow when the temperature dips below 70 degrees. Nonetheless, winter is on the way with its much-needed holiday cheer and Starbucks is helping us with the early release of their annual holiday beverages. 

Upon the Nov. 6 release of the holiday collection, fans have been flooding their local Starbucks, fiending for a taste of a Peppermint Mocha. Sold iced, hot and blended as a Frappuccino, the blended option was hard to resist.

It took a 20 minute wait to get this drink, and boy, was it worth it. Piled high with a mountain of whipped cream, the Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino was about to be the best and worst way to spend a total of 430 calories. 

The first sip is heavenly, the peppermint taste is subtle and worked harmoniously with the bold coffee roast and mocha taste. Though a bit bitter, mixing in the whipped cream helps to sweeten the drink a bit. The drink is enough to ring in the holidays, but the coffee flavor hits as more of a subtle aftertaste. 

When ordering this drink, keep in mind that you will definitely get a giant burst of caffeine energy. The drink is made with their signature Frappuccino Roast Coffee which is mixed into syrups full of sugar, so expect to be bounding off of the walls after finishing one of these.  

This definitely will not be the last time I drop a few dollars on this drink. Check out your local Starbucks location for availability and make sure to place a mobile order pickup to skip the line. Happy holidays!

Rating: 4/5

Five must-try coffee shops near Lake Forest, CA according to Yelp

Southern Orange County is full of cafes and coffee shops, but Lake Forest shines with its quaint, hidden gems. These locations are community favorites that offer a multitude of food and beverages for anyone. Listed in no particular order, these are the coffee shops you have to visit on your next visit to Lake Forest, CA. 

1. Patch Coffee                                                                                                                                                  Patch Coffee is a locally owned, female-founded cafe that offers a multitude of locally sourced food and drink items. Specializing in their freshly brewed coffee blends, kombucha, teas and cold brew, Patch Coffee has something for every customer. The facility is full of seating and offers free WiFi, perfect for studying and your next breakfast date. Greeting everyone upon entering the door, the staff welcomes visitors right from their barista bar, placed in the center of the cafe. Popular among locals, the location is often busy all day due to its convenient location, which is surrounded by a church, sports park and a high school. Visit Patch Coffee during your next trip to Lake Forest and experience it for yourself!                                                                              Rated 4 stars on Yelp.

• Vegan options 
• Gluten-free options
• Plant-based options 
• Free Wi-Fi
• Indoor seating (following COVID-19 restrictions)

2. The Human Bean

Located right off the side of El Toro Road, The Human Bean is a cozy drive-thru coffee shack that never fails to attract locals. The location has no indoor and outdoor seating, however, it is located right next to a park where you can walk and sit down. The service is speedy with a friendly staff that serves drinks as well as breakfast food items. The Human Bean delivers high quality, artisan drinks such as coffees, teas and smoothies. Visiting this location is convenient and quick, make sure to stop by next time you are in the area!

Rated 4.5 stars on Yelp.

• Vegan options 
• Vegetarian options
• Plant-based options
• Takeout only (following COVID-19 restrictions)

3. Bodhi Leaf Coffee Traders

The infamous orange cup is making its appearance as a Lake Forest local staple! Often populated with college students during the day, Bodhi Leaf Coffee Traders is a cozy coffee shop, perfect for studying and catching up with friends. Specializing in their single-origin coffee, the location offers a blend that caters to every flavor profile. Bodhi Leaf Coffee Traders sells a number of espresso and coffee drinks, as well as teas and blended beverages. The staff is super friendly and is willing to help customers find their perfect blend. Visit Bodhi Leaf Coffee Traders for a great cup of coffee and a cozy study spot. 

Rated 4.5 stars on Yelp.

• Vegan options
• Vegetarian options
• Plant-based options
• Free Wi-Fi
• Takeout only (following COVID-19 restrictions)

4. Kona Loa Coffee

Take a trip to Hawaii and visit Kona Loa Coffee. Offering a fully Hawaiian food menu, Kona Loa Coffee doubles as a great place to grab a couple orders of Spam Musubi to have with an artisanal coffee. Transported from the big island, Kona, the high-quality coffee beans give customers a taste of Hawaii. Serving a number of different coffees and teas, Kona Loa also serves busy students as a great study spot on the weekdays. Next time you visit Kona Loa, make sure to try their amazing avocado toast!

Rated 4.5 stars on Yelp.

• Vegan options
• Vegetarian options
• Plant-based options 
• Free Wi-Fi
• Takeout only (following COVID-19 restrictions)

5. High Ground Coffee House/It's A Grind Coffee House

Located in a bustling shopping center, High Ground Coffee House is conveniently located off of Marguerite Parkway in Mission Viejo. With the store's sign reading "It's A Grind Coffee House," the location goes by both names which can be confusing but is able to be found on the map with either name. High Ground Coffee House is a cozy location that offers artisan bakery items as well as hand-crafted coffee drinks. Perfect for any student in need of a new study spot, High Ground Coffee House is a quaint location full of lush green plants and the delicious aroma of freshly ground coffee beans. Visit High Ground Coffee House for some delicious pastries and beverages for any occasion!

Rated 4 stars on Yelp.

• Vegetarian options 
• Vegan options 
• Plant-based options
• Free Wi-Fi
• Takeout only (following COVID-19 restrictions)

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf steps up the holidays with The Red Velvet collection

Stop by your local Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf before it's too late!

Red Velvet Ice Blended (Photo/Alyssa Gervacio) 

With the Nov. 2 launch of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s 2020 holiday drink menu, the Southern California based coffee chain is trading pumpkin for peppermint with the revival of four seasonal drink flavors and three baked goods. The brewing battle between the coffee chain industry’s Peppermint Mocha drinks has been in full effect. Though the Peppermint Mocha is one of the most popular holiday flavors, a different item on the menu catches eyes with its bright pink hue, topped with a mountain of whipped cream.

The Red Velvet Hot Cocoa flavor comes in three varieties, which include the default Red Velvet Hot Cocoa, Red Velvet Iced Cocoa and Red Velvet Ice Blended. This time, I chose the Ice Blended version but skipped out on the whipped cream to avoid further guilt. 

Upon taking the first sip of the blended concoction, guilt was no longer a problem. I wasn’t sure what to expect to begin with, but the flavor wasn’t anything I have tasted before. 

Think of a slice of red velvet cake that has been soaked with milk and thrown into a blender with some ice. The drink was super creamy with a hint of the red velvet flavor. None of it was overpowering whatsoever, it wasn’t sweet enough to make someone cringe either.

With a subtle hint of chocolate, the drink would have been heavenly as the hot cocoa variety. Topping it off with whipped cream and marshmallows would transport anyone to an instant holiday vacation. 

Overall, the drink was great! Despite the lack of some much-needed caffeine that morning, the five dollars was worth it for this coffee-shop milkshake. This drink is going to be purchased again in the future since the flavor is so hard to resist! Find your nearest location and try this drink out for a different holiday flavor this season. 

Rating: 4/5

Step aside Pumpkin Spice Latte, Peppermint Mocha is back in town

Starbucks adds holiday food and drinks to its menu to celebrate early this year

Despite the new year being two months away, Starbucks decided to give the United States some early holiday cheer with the release of their holiday food and drink menu. Keeping with season’s tradition, the company also released a new line of holiday-themed, reusable tumblers and hot cups. Officially for sale starting Nov. 6, each holiday drink purchase would be accompanied with a free, reusable hot-drink cup adorned with a red and green pattern to ring in the new season (while supplies last at participating U.S. and Canada locations.)

The 2020 holiday collection of reusable tumblers and hot cups reject the red and green Christmas theme. New venti cups are completed with an iridescent grid pattern available in pink, plum and silver. Sequin-covered tumblers are also for sale, shifting colors in the light.

“Our thought behind the cups this year was about people carrying them out in the world as messengers of joy,” said Jeff Wilkson, the Starbucks creative director, to FOX Business. 

Classics such as the Caramel Brûlée Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, Eggnog Latte, Peppermint Mocha and the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha are sold in three sizes according to the official Starbucks app, including Short (8 ounces), Tall (12 ounces), Grande (16 ounces) and Venti (20 ounces). 

Available to accompany your morning coffee, four food items have been added to the menu, including the Cranberry Bliss Bar, Snowman Cake Pop, Snowman Cookie and the Sugar Plum Danish. Joining the races this year, a new Cranberry Orange Scone is being added. 

“Cranberry Orange Scone is a flaky, buttermilk scone with crème fraiche, dried cranberries and orange zest, drizzled with vanilla icing,” according to Starbucks Stories & News. 

However, a concern for Gingerbread Latte fans has arisen overnight after Starbucks tweeted about the new holiday products.

Our Gingerbread Latte is only available in Canada this year. We recommend a Cinnamon Dolce Latte for a similar taste! ✨

— Starbucks Coffee (@Starbucks) November 5, 2020

Starbucks confirmed that the Gingerbread Latte would only be available in Canada's stores this year. This offers a new opportunity for customers to try the rest of the menu.