http://www.yumsugar.com/ To die for. en http://www.yumsugar.com/node/2468883 <p><a href="http://casasugar.com/2463298" >Does Interior Design Matter at Your Coffee Shop?</a> According to the Herald Tribune, Starbucks is undergoing a design overhaul of its interiors. I'm curious whether a coffee shop's design influences whether or not you'll order a latte. Does design influence your preferences out of the home?</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/2468883#comment aside casasugar design Starbucks Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:25:00 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2468883 http://www.yumsugar.com/2463581 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/45_2008/b90d58829a08038a_free_stuff_vote.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right xlarger" height="400" width="325"></span>Tomorrow, I'll be finding several ways to celebrate being an American. Obviously, I'm hitting up <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/election+night" >PartySugar and LibertySugar's election-night bash</a>, but beforehand I'll cash in on some free food.</p> <p>Present your "I Voted" sticker at <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/krispy+kreme" >Krispy Kreme</a> and receive a <a href="http://www.krispykreme.com/#" target="_blank">sprinkle-studded, star-shaped doughnut</a> at no cost. For a nice breakfast pairing, head to <a href="http://yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a>, tell them you voted, and you'll get a <a href="http://blogs.starbucks.com/blogs/customer/archive/2008/10/31/free-Starbucks-for-voting.aspx" target="_blank">free 12-ounce cup of coffee</a>. And for dessert, go to any <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/ben+and+jerry's" >Ben &amp; Jerry's</a> between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. to score a <a href="http://www.benjerry.com/features/i_voted/" target="_blank">free scoop of ice cream</a>. </p> <p>Despite the fact that some are <a href="http://cbs2.com/local/Coffee.Donuts.Election.2.854417.html" target="_blank">calling the promotions illegal</a>, I think these freebies are a wonderful way to promote the vote. Plus, what better way to stay peeled to the results than with a delicious bargain?</p> <p><a href="http://www.starbucks.com/" target="_blank">Source</a>, <a href="http://www.benjerry.com/features/i_voted/" target="_blank">Source</a>, and <a href="http://www.krispykreme.com/#" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2463581#comment 2008 Presidential Election ben and jerry's free food freebies krispy kreme news Starbucks Mon, 03 Nov 2008 15:00:12 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2463581 http://www.yumsugar.com/2389869 <p>As colossal coffee chain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a> struggles to keep up with past profit margins, its competitors continue to move in for the kill. Earlier this month, breakfast chain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/dunkin%27+donuts" >Dunkin' Donuts</a> introduced <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/2145114" >its version of a recession deal</a>. Now, in its latest ad campaign, the chain is <a href="http://www.boston.com/business/ticker/2008/10/new_ads_claim_d.html" target="_blank">claiming it beat Starbucks in a blind taste test</a>.<span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/43_2008/89671ac39c1be3fe_DunkinbeatStarbucks.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="480" width="538"></span>In the campaign, Dunkin' Donuts, which is currently in the middle of a <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB117816196370490587.html?mod=todays_us_marketplace" target="_blank">national expansion effort</a>, airs a new TV spot and launched a website, <a href="http://www.dunkinbeatstarbucks.com/" target="_blank">Dunkin' Beat Starbucks</a>, that will highlight the results of the taste test.</p> <p>The blind taste test, conducted by <a href="http://www.agresearchinc.com/" target="_blank">A&amp;G Research</a>, polled 476 adults in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle. According to a <a href="http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=109&amp;STORY=/www/story/10-20-2008/0004907001&amp;EDATE=" target="_blank">press release from the chain</a>, 54.2 percent of participants surveyed preferred Dunkin' Donuts coffee to the 39.3 percent who preferred Starbucks coffee. Another 6.3 percent had no preference between the two. </p> <p>I'm slightly surprised by the results: I recently had Dunkin' Donuts coffee, and found that I still prefer the coffee from Starbucks. What about you? Are you impressed by the study's results, or are you skeptical of the findings?</p> <p><a href="http://www.dunkinbeatstarbucks.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2389869#comment advertising chains coffee dunkin' donuts news restaurants Starbucks taste test Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:30:32 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2389869 http://www.yumsugar.com/2342102 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2342102"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2342102',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2342102');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/Syrups.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" height="215" width="550"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.starbucksstore.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2342102" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>What&#039;s Your Coffee Syrup of Choice?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Vanilla</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Hazelnut</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Caramel</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Cinnamon</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Toffee</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="5" class="form-radio" /> Mint</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="6" class="form-radio" /> Orange</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="7" class="form-radio" /> Raspberry</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="8" class="form-radio" /> None of the above.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="9" class="form-radio" /> Other — see below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2342102" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/2342102#comment coffee Coffee Syrup drinks poll Starbucks Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:15:31 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2342102 http://www.yumsugar.com/2353285 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/42_2008/Starbucks-Holiday.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right xlarger" height="400" width="285"></span>Amid slipping sales, <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks Coffee</a> has unveiled <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/food/2008-10-12-starbucks-gold-card_N.htm" target="_blank">several plans</a> to boost holiday consumer spending.</p> <p>This year, the coffee titan will sell five $20 gift cards for the discounted price of $80 — the first time ever that Starbucks has offered a gift card for less than face value. These gift cards, available only at discount retailer <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/costco" >Costco</a>, have been flying off shelves. In the promotion's first month, the company has sold nearly 1 million gift cards.</p> <p>Starbucks is also rolling out its new gold-card loyalty program. The gold card, which can be purchased for $25, allows cardholders 10 percent off most items except gift cards and digital downloads. The company anticipates that millions of gold cards will be sold to customers who are existing cardholders of the regular Starbucks card, as it will save them more money.</p> <p>Holiday gifts will also be at a lower price point this year. Many stores will also have $10 or less gift tables, and some items, such as CDs and coffee samplers, will retail at a price that is roughly 13 percent lower than similar items last year. </p> <p>Do you think these promotions will increase sales, or is Starbucks trying too many different things at once? Will you be signing up for the gold card, or racing to Costco for the discounted gift cards?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2353285#comment coffee economy Gold Card news Starbucks Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:15:00 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2353285 http://www.yumsugar.com/2297002 <p>Starbucks has been keeping itself busy. Not only has it developed a <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/slideshow/2153256" >whole new line of food items</a>, but <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >the company</a> has been working on a bigger product launch: its Clover Small Batch Coffee, a new offering that highlights high-end coffees. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/StarbucksClover.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="484" width="550"></span>The new coffee program has two important elements: high-quality beans from varying origins, and specific coffee equipment known as <a href="http://cloverequipment.com/Home/Default2.aspx" target="_blank">Clover</a> machines to brew the beans. The idea is to encourage customers to taste coffee like they would wine. Because like wine, coffee's origins, soil, and climate are reflected in its taste. At $11,000 each, Clover coffee makers aren't cheap, but they employ a vacuum-press process, turning out individually brewed, made-to-order cups that highlight coffee's true flavors.<br /> <p><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-70966 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 active" href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,0,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3745.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-78358 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 " href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,1,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3746.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-1316 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 " href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,2,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3747.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-86816 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 " href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,3,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3748.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-34846 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 " href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,4,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3749.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div></p><br clear="all"></p> <p>This morning, Starbucks launched its Clover Small Batch Coffee Program in San Francisco (it has already been released in Boston, Seattle, and Portland). From a choice of five coffees, I selected the Ethiopia Nardos brew. The coffee was floral, and its notes of sweet brown sugar were enhanced when I took a bite of my croissant. At $2.75 for a tall, it was a treat well worth it. </p> <p>Have you tasted Clover coffee yet? What did you think? To see if there is a Clover program location near you, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/2297002">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2297002#comment Clover coffee coffee maker news restaurants san francisco Starbucks taste test Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:25:14 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2297002 http://www.yumsugar.com/2271379 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/McDonalds_McCafe_Campaign.xlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right xlarge" height="191" width="320"></span>In an effort to further promote its new <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/930225" >McCafé coffee bars</a>, fast-food chain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/mcdonald's" >McDonald's</a> has released a <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jason-notte/have-a-latte-idiot-the-co_b_131106.html" target="_blank">new set of clips that make fun</a> of the coffeehouse scene popularized by <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a>, billing it as a stuffy store overrun with brooding intellectuals. </p> <p>This isn't the first of the campaign against Starbucks: Earlier this year, <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1551854" >we took notice of the new McDonald's site Unsnobbycoffee.com</a>, which touts McDonald's coffee as simple, easy, and unpretentious when compared to Starbucks. The new commercials take this concept one step further. "Now we don't have to listen to jazz all day long!" one woman proclaims in the segment below. Check out the commercial for yourself and tell me: Do you find it funny, or is McDonald's, with its new segments that mock Starbucks, taking its ad campaign one step too far? </p> <p><center> <div style='width:455px' id="spi_tabs_container"> <div id="spi_tabs_top"> <div id="spi_tabs_topL"></div> <div id="spi_tabs_topR"></div> </div> <div class="panel chatter_chatter fbceleb " > <center> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://images.teamsugar.com/static/js/swfobject.js"></script> <p style=margin:0px;padding:0px id="player_2272622"><a href="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer">Get Flash</a> to see this player.</p> <script type="text/javascript"> var so2272622 = new SWFObject('/static/flash/mediaplayer.swf','mpl','400','300','7'); so2272622.addParam('allowfullscreen','true'); so2272622.addVariable("file",'2272622.flv'); so2272622.addVariable('height', 328); so2272622.addVariable('image','/media/cooked/thumbs/2272622.jpg'); so2272622.addVariable('width','400'); so2272622.addVariable('logo','/static/imgs/watermark/yumsugar.png'); so2272622.write('player_2272622'); </script> </center> </div> <div id="spi_tabs_bot"> <div id="spi_tabs_botL"></div> <div id="spi_tabs_botR"></div> </div> </div></center><br /> <a href="http://www.boston.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2271379#comment advertising coffee mccafe McDonald's news restaurant chains restaurants Starbucks Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:30:50 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2271379 http://www.yumsugar.com/slideshow/2153256 <a href="/slideshow/2153256?page=0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/40_2008/Starbucks_collage.xlarge.jpg" alt="Taste Test: New Starbucks Items" title="Taste Test: New Starbucks Items" class="image xlarge inline left" height="320" width="320" /></a>In an attempt to boost sales during <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/economy">tough economic times</a>, coffee giant <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks">Starbucks</a> has just unveiled a line of <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1784832">smoothies</a>, rolled out a <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1896346">healthy morning menu</a>, expanded its <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/2071663">breakfast sandwich assortment</a>, and revealed a new collection of gourmet hot chocolates. Since we've been deluged with a new range of options, we decided to put the food to the test. To see how Starbucks fared, click start.<div id='pager' style='margin:25px auto;text-align:center;margin:8px; '><a href="/slideshow/2153256?page=0">Start Slideshow</a></div> http://www.yumsugar.com/slideshow/2153256#comment breakfast hot chocolate muffins news oatmeal Piadinis restaurants slideshow smoothies Starbucks taste tests Vivanno Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:30:28 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2153256 http://www.yumsugar.com/2145114 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/40_2008/Dunkin_donuts.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="367" width="550"></span>Responding to the <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/economy" >economic hardship</a>, breakfast chain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/dunkin%27+donuts" >Dunkin' Donuts</a> has come out with <a href="http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=109&amp;STORY=/www/story/10-01-2008/0004895791&amp;EDATE=" target="_blank">its version of a recession deal</a>.</p> <p>Beginning today, small hot and iced lattes will cost only 99 cents from 2 to 5 p.m. The new special, dubbed "America's Latte Break," is the doughnut chain's response to the <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1845269" >Starbucks $2 afternoon coffee deal</a> that ended last month. The restaurants will also offer a 99 cent Egg and Cheese Sandwich — all day long — with the purchase of a medium or larger hot coffee. Both specials will run through Nov. 11.</p> <p>What do you think of "America's Latte Break"? Will it edge out the competition? Will you visit Dunkin' Donuts for afternoon coffee over Starbucks? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2145114#comment coffee dunkin' donuts economy food crisis lattes restaurants Starbucks Wed, 01 Oct 2008 09:12:23 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2145114 http://www.yumsugar.com/2071663 <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a> sure is indecisive. Last January it announced that <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1000123" >breakfast sandwiches would be pulled from its stores</a>. Then in July it changed its mind and <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1819085" >simply modified the sandwich recipe</a>. Now Starbucks has decided to <a href="http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080923/starbucks_breakfast.html?.v=2" target="_blank">expand the breakfast sandwich</a> menu! <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/39_2008/82034103.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline" height="367" width="550"></span>Next week the coffee giant will introduce the Piadini, a stuffed breakfast sandwich made on artisan bread with either sausage, egg, and cheese or mushroom, spinach, and ricotta fillings. To ensure that the new sandwiches get maximum exposure, Starbucks is putting ovens in 800 more stores. Changing the menu is nothing new; earlier this month Starbucks <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1896346" >added oatmeal, apple bran muffins, and multigrain rolls</a> to the morning menu and within the next year, the company plans to broaden the lunch menu. </p> <p>I'm excited to try the new breakfast offerings — the spinach feta wrap is one of my favorite hangover cures. How about you? Are you sick of the Starbucks sandwich talk, or will you enjoy the Piadinis? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2071663#comment breakfast news sandwiches Starbucks starbucks breakfast sandwiches Wed, 24 Sep 2008 07:45:50 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2071663 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1896571 <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1896346" >Starbucks Adds Healthier Food Options</a> The company is hoping that the healthier breakfast options, which debut Sept. 3, will bring consumers back to the ailing company.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1896571#comment aside breakfast fitsugar news restaurants Starbucks Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:55:00 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1896571 http://www.yumsugar.com/1845269 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/32_2008/82102560.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="287"></span><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a> has announced its plan to offer an afternoon discount to morning customers. Present a receipt of your morning beverage after 2 p.m. and you can order any iced grande coffee drink (including Frappuccinos!) for just $2. The promotion begins on Tuesday and runs until Sept. 2. According to Brad Stevens, the vice president of customer relationship management, the <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2008/08/05/news/companies/starbucks.ap/index.htm" target="_blank">discount is a no-brainer</a>:<br /> <blockquote>I think we've kind of hit the nail on the head. It's easy for baristas to implement and it's easy for customers to understand.</p></blockquote> <p>Since Starbucks's iced drinks are a little pricey the concept is quite clever. However, I rarely order two Starbucks drinks in one day, so I don't know how often I will be able to use the discount. How about you? Will you use the discount?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1845269#comment coffee discounts iced coffee news Starbucks Tue, 05 Aug 2008 11:16:52 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1845269 http://www.yumsugar.com/1819085 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/31_2008/breakfast-starbucks-large.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" width="540"></span>In a last-minute change of heart, <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a> has decided to keep its breakfast sandwiches on the menu. Last January the coffee giant announced that it would be <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1000123" >pulling all of its breakfast sandwiches</a> from stores this September. The reason? Their pungent smell interfered with the in-store coffee aroma. Now, Starbucks says it <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121702408632285929.html?mod=todays_us_money_and_investing" target="_blank">plans to modify the sandwich recipe</a>, swapping the cheese and using less butter:<br /> <blockquote>We are not reversing our decision to replace the breakfast sandwiches, but rather we are continuing to evolve our food offerings. We have found small ingredient changes that address the aroma issues of our current breakfast sandwiches, and have implemented these already.</p></blockquote> <p>This change comes in light of Starbucks's many Wall Street woes, which include <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1753538" >closing 600 stores</a> and trying to gain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1784832" >smoothie market share</a>. No doubt the <a href="http://savethebreakfastsandwich.com/" target="_blank">website that's petitioning</a> to keep the hot breakfast item is ecstatic about the development. What are your thoughts?</p> <p><a href="http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/food/2007-02-20-breakfast-wars-usat_x.htm" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1819085#comment breakfast news sandwiches Starbucks starbucks breakfast sandwiches Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:00:57 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1819085 http://www.yumsugar.com/1811467 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/30_2008/retroglam_bridalshower_1.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="320"></span> <ul> <li>Decorate your kitchen with these <a href="http://www.hostessblog.com/2008/07/theme-idea-kitschy-retro-glam/" target="_blank">kitschy, retro-glam finds</a>. — <b>Hostess with the Mostess</b></li> <li>Make <a href="http://www.slashfood.com/2008/07/24/slashfood-ate-8-gourmet-coffee-at-home/" target="_blank">gourmet coffee</a> at home. — <b>Slashfood</b></li> <li>New to cooking? Check a <a href="http://www.chow.com/stories/11219" target="_blank">beginner cookbook</a> out of your library. — <b>Chow</b></li> <li>Just how good are <a href="http://bakingbites.com/2008/07/starbucks-sorbetto-and-vivanno-reviewed/" target="_blank">Starbucks's smoothies</a>? — <b>Baking Bites</b></li> <li>Get to know <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/required_eating/2008/07/videos-david-chang-charlie-rose-pbs-momofuku-ko.html?ref=se-bb3" target="_blank">David Chang of Momofuku fame</a> a little better. — <b>Serious Eats</b></li> <li>Take a look at San Francisco's just-planted <a href="http://casasugar.com/1796527" >Slow Food Nation Victory Garden</a>. — <b>CasaSugar</b></li> <li><a href="http://www.cookthink.com" target="_blank">Cookthink</a> gets a stylish new makeover. — <b>Cookthink</b></li> <li>Learn how to make crispy and delicious <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/recipe-review/recipe-recommendation-fried-green-tomatoes-057523" target="_blank">fried green tomatoes</a>. — <b>The Kitchn</b> <li>Help McDonald's <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/blogs/editor/2008/07/suggest-a-new-n.html" target="_blank">name its new dollar menu</a>. — <b>The Epi-Log</b></li> <li>Calling all New Yorkers: <a href="http://eater.com/archives/2008/07/eater_call_to_action_recruiting_top_chef_season_5_spies.php" target="_blank">be on the lookout</a> for the filming of Top Chef Season 5! — <b>Eater</b></li> </ul> <p><a href="http://www.hostessblog.com/2008/07/theme-idea-kitschy-retro-glam" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1811467#comment coffee cookbooks david chang fried green tomatoes Kitschy Kitchens link time McDonald's san francisco slow food Starbucks Top Chef 5 victory garden yummy links Fri, 25 Jul 2008 06:45:12 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1811467 http://www.yumsugar.com/1800702 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/29_2008/81811834_0.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="280"></span>By now you must have heard that <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1753538" >Starbucks is closing 600 of its stateside coffee shops</a>. Last week <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a> released the <a href="http://www.starbucks.com/aboutus/pressdesc.asp?id=882" target="_blank">official list</a> of the closing stores with a grand total of 616 closures. The closing stores are company-operated stand alone locations; no bookstore, super market, or airport Starbucks will be shuttered. A <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/retailreport/2008060326_retailreportdige19starbucks.html" target="_blank">recent study</a> by analyst Sharon Zackfia, found that 54 percent of the closing locations are within two miles of another Starbucks. The study also <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/retailreport/2008060326_retailreportdige19starbucks.html" target="_blank">breakdowns the closures by region</a>:<br /> <blockquote>The central part of the country will lose about 13 percent of Starbucks stores that are operated directly by the Seattle company. The Southeast will lose 10 percent, the Northeast 8 percent and the West 5 percent.</p></blockquote> <p>After checking the list, I'm relieved to see that none of the Starbucks I frequent are closing. To find out which stores are vanishing in your neighborhood, check out the complete list and </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1800702">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1800702#comment coffee coffee shops news Starbucks starbucks closing stores Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:15:51 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1800702 http://www.yumsugar.com/1784832 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/29_2008/starbucks.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="308"></span>With <a href="http://fabsugar.com/tags/celebrity+designers" >reality stars posing as fashion designers</a> and <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/486451" >singers turning into restaurateurs</a>, it's no surprise that Starbucks and Subway would expand into something other than caffeinated beverages and sandwiches. Tomorrow <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a> is scheduled to launch a new smoothie line. Called Vivanno Nourishing Blends, the smoothies come in two flavors: Orange Mango Banana and Chocolate Banana. </p> <p>Scrambling to increase sales with innovative new products like smoothies, Starbucks has reason to worry: <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/subway" >Subway</a> is testing out a cafe concept. The Subway cafes will be larger than the existing sandwich shops with comfortable seating, wi-fi, espresso drinks, gelatos, and paninis. Subway isn't the first fast-food chain to expand into coffee, both <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/930225" >McDonalds</a> and <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/burger+king" >Burger King</a> have been heavily promoting coffee drinks.</p> <p>What do you think about these announcements? Will you try a Starbucks smoothie or Subway coffee? </p> <p><a href="http://www.campusdining.org/starbucks" target="_blank">Source</a> and <a href="http://www.pr.com/company-profile/product-pic/1214-1679" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1784832#comment chain restaurants coffee news sandwiches smoothies Starbucks subway Mon, 14 Jul 2008 11:15:47 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1784832 http://www.yumsugar.com/1753538 <p>Perhaps it's a bad sign when your company's ubiquity becomes the butt of jokes; I particularly loved <a href="http://www.theonion.com/content/node/29030" target="_blank">The Onion's suggestion</a> that <a href="http://yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a> would open a store in the bathroom of another Starbucks. So I wasn't surprised to read the news that the all-conquering coffee chain is <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1752478" >closing 600 US stores</a>.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/6066/27_2008/starbucks.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="368" width="550"></span></p> <p>Whether you're a Starbucks fan or a hater, I bet you know a thing or two about the company's crazy reputation for having a store on every corner — or maybe now it's every other corner? Take my Starbucks by the numbers quiz to find out.</p> <p><a href="http://gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a> </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1753538">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1753538#comment coffee news quiz Starbucks starbucks closing stores Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:15:54 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1753538 http://www.yumsugar.com/1729561 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/25_2008/pike.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="144"></span>Due to popular demand, <a href="http://consumerist.com/tag/starbucks/?i=5018413&amp;t=starbucks-to-bring-back-burnt-coffee-due-to-customer-demand" target="_blank">Starbucks will bring back their bolder — burnt tasting — roasted coffee</a>. If you prefer your coffee burnt, you can request the bolder variety. —<b>The Consumerist</b></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1729561#comment coffee Starbucks the consumerist yucky links yummy links Mon, 23 Jun 2008 07:45:06 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1729561 http://www.yumsugar.com/1662351 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/22_2008/tag4.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="250"></span> <ul> <li>Epicurious has a <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/blogs/editor/2008/05/epicuriouss-new.html" target="_blank">new map</a> that will help you know which ingredients are in season at your local farmers markets. — <b>The Epi-Log</b></li> <li>When did the <a href="http://www.chow.com/grinder/5586" target="_blank">world of coffee get so slutty</a>?— <b>Chow</b></li> <li>Speaking of coffee, check out this hysterical <a href="http://www.holytaco.com/2008/05/21/8-types-of-annoying-people-youll-find-inside-starbucks/" target="_blank">list of the eight most annoying types of people you'll find in Starbucks</a>. I'm totally number six! — <b>Holy Taco</b></li> <li><a href="http://www.hostessblog.com/2008/05/girls-night-2/" target="_blank">Hot pink, zebra prints, and shiny disco balls</a> make a fabulous look for a bachelorette party. — <b>Hostess with the Mostess</b></li> <li>Purchase hard to find <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/asian/web-resource-import-food-online-thai-produce-and-thai-pantry-items-051362" target="_blank">Thai produce and pantry items</a> online.— <b>The Kitchn</b></li> <li>Learn <a href="http://www.slashfood.com/2008/05/23/some-tips-on-proper-beer-storage/" target="_blank">how to properly store beer</a>. — <b>SlashFood</b></li> <li>What signs do you look for when <a href="http://simplystated.realsimple.com/food/2008/05/how-to-pick-a-g.html" target="_blank">choosing a restaurant</a>? — <b>Simply Stated</b> <li>Fake a four-star restaurant dessert with this recipe for <a href="http://chefsgonewild.blogspot.com/2008/05/how-to-fake-4-star-restaurant-dessert.html" target="_blank">passion fruit souffle</a>. — <b>Chefs Gone Wild</b></li> </ul> <p><a href="http://chefsgonewild.blogspot.com/2008/05/how-to-fake-4-star-restaurant-dessert.html" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1662351#comment beer coffee in season link time Passion Fruit Souffles Seasonal Maps sexism Starbucks thai the look yummy links Tue, 27 May 2008 09:00:01 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1662351 http://www.yumsugar.com/1656334 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1656334"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1656334',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1656334');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/13603/21_2008/starbucksstirstick.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline preview" height="400" width="550"></span>Starbucks recently rolled out their <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/money/advertising/adtrack/2008-04-13-ad-track_N.htm?csp=N008" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">new splash sticks</a>, and our very own <a href="http://petsugar.com" rel="nofollow">PetSugar</a> is gaga for them. They're like stirring sticks only with a special plug on the top to keep coffee from spilling out. I think it's a genius idea — I have a hard time walking without spilling stuff all over myself — but I can see where some of you might dislike it. It's creating more waste and isn't very <a href="http://yumsugar.com/tag/eco" rel="nofollow">green</a>. So what do you think? Are you into this stirring stick?</p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1656334" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Starbucks Splash Stick: Love It or Hate It?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Love It</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Hate It</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Undecided</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1656334" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/1656334#comment coffee Love It or Hate It poll Starbucks Sat, 24 May 2008 04:00:21 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1656334 http://www.yumsugar.com/1629038 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/20_2008/starbucksenergy.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline right preview" width="327"></span>Believe it or not, I don't drink much coffee. I cut it out of my life and now only indulge every so often, more for flavor than for the wake-up boost. However, I know there are quite a few of you, who absolutely can not live without your morning cuppa. If you're in that camp, then I have some interesting news for you. <a href="http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/business/362797_sbuxdrinks13.html" target="_blank">Starbucks is launching an energy boost</a>. </p> <p>Their new option, called <a href="http://www.starbucks.com/retail/nutrition_beverage_detail.asp?selProducts=%7B8a74a3fe%2D55a9%2D4d7a%2D9336%2Db3042b430f2e%7D" target="_blank">+Energy</a>, is a blend of B vitamins, guarana, and ginseng. For 50 cents, it can be added to any existing drink. Now you can have your caffeine boost AND an energy boost all at the same time. When asked why they were doing this, Starbucks spokesperson Bridget Baker <a href="http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/business/362797_sbuxdrinks13.html" target="_blank">said</a>:</p> <blockquote><p>It's a perfect match for active lifestyles. It's a way of meeting that demand and addressing that need.</p></blockquote> <p>And if you're too active to actually stand in line for a drink, starting next month they'll offer a ready-to-drink version for grocery stores, convenience stores, and any other places their ready-to-drink products are sold.</p> <p>So has anyone tried the +Energy boost? Did it make your coffee taste differently? </p> <p><a href="http://www.starbucks.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1629038#comment boosts coffee energy energy drinks Starbucks Thu, 15 May 2008 09:00:37 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1629038 http://www.yumsugar.com/1589975 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/18_2008/starbs.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" width="540"></span>We've all been in crazy situations, and I want to know how you handle entertaining fiascoes and bad restaurant behavior. I'll present a situation and you tell me what you would do. Here's this week's scenario:</p> <p>You've heard all about <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a> attempts to <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1078447" >improve the quality of their coffee and service</a> so you decide to stop in and treat yourself to a Frappuccino. The drink is delicious and rewarding until you get about half way through when suddenly you realize nothing but giant chunks of ice are left! <i>What would you do?</i></p> <p>To see what I would do in this situation — true story, it happened to a <a href="http://teamsugar.com/user/nancita" >Sugar gal</a>! — </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1589975">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1589975#comment Frappuccino Starbucks what would you do what would you make Wed, 30 Apr 2008 07:00:11 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1589975 http://www.yumsugar.com/1535913 <p>This morning Starbucks had their <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1531424" >"venti" announcement</a>, and I don't know about you guys, but I was a bit <strike>bored</strike> underwhelmed. I know they're trying everything they can think of to turn things back around, but a huge cryptic press release for 30 minutes of free coffee? That's right from 9-9:30 a.m. PDT (12-12:30 p.m. EDT) they were giving out free samples of their new Pike Place Roast. It's their new everyday coffee and is — according to several folks who tried it — smoother and less burnt tasting than normal. If you missed out there will be <a href="http://www.starbucks.com/flash/pikeplaceroast/index.html?events" target="_blank">sampling vans roaming the country</a> over the next few months, alternatively, you could just go in and try it for yourself.<br /> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/15_2008/IMG_6780.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image outline preview" height="280" width="550"></span>In addition to their new blend, there were actually a few more notable changes. Most significantly is the logo. The green encircled two-tailed mermaid — OK, how come I never noticed it was a two-tailed mermaid? — has been replaced with the old-school two-tailed mermaid logo — which I might add, has way more boobage going on — and the words "Fresh Roasted" also appear. </p> <p>They have also finally added some <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/card/default.asp" target="_blank">perks for folks with a Starbucks Card</a>. If you have a prepaid Starbucks card you should be able to get syrup and milk options for free, free refills of brewed coffee, and a complimentary tall beverage when you purchase whole beans. It's not a full rewards program, but it is more than you got before.</p> <p>So tell me, do you think these changes are going to help Starbucks out? Or are you just sick of hearing about all the changes?</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1535913#comment coffee logos Starbucks Tue, 08 Apr 2008 13:18:31 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1535913 http://www.yumsugar.com/1531424 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/14_2008/starbucks.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline right preview" height="323" width="319"></span>If you head over to <a href="http://www.starbucks.com/default.asp?" target="_blank">Starbucks' website</a>, you'll find a cryptic message claiming that something big — they're calling it "venti" big — is happening tomorrow. They've been implementing a lot of <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1129962" >interesting changes</a> at the coffee giant, but there's no news on what their big announcement will be. All I know is that on Tuesday, April 8 at noon ET / 9 a.m. PT, you should head into your local Starbucks to "celebrate something big." Oh and the website says not to be late.</p> <p>So what do you think it is? What sort of big announcement do you think Starbucks has up its sleeve?</p> <p><b>Update:</b> Nothing confirmed, but I've heard of a new Pike's Place Brew and individual drip coffees. I'll keep you posted if I hear anything else.</p> <p><a href="http://www.starbucks.com/default.asp?" target="_blank">Source</a> </p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1531424#comment events news Starbucks Mon, 07 Apr 2008 05:27:51 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1531424 http://www.yumsugar.com/1140797 <p><center><object width='425' height='352' id='cd' classid='clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000'><br /> <param name='allowFullScreen' value='true' /> <param name='allowScriptAccess' value='always' /> <param name='movie' value='http://www.pickle.com/flshentrw/cp20/VP/274/FOOD/860879' /><embed src='http://www.pickle.com/flshentrw/cp20/VP/274/FOOD/860879' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' width='425' height='352' allowfullscreen='true' allowScriptAccess='always' ></embed></object></center> <ul> <li>Adam Roberts chats with a tipsy Bourdain in the video above. If that whets your palate then check out the <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/show_fn/text/0,3175,FOOD_31036_66868,00.html?sortby=recent&amp;pn=1&amp;pageref=Photo_Video-860880" target="_blank">extended Bourdain interview</a>. — <b>The FN Dish</b></li> <li>Have we gone too far with <a href="http://www.slashfood.com/2008/03/24/pre-packaged-ready-to-eat-produce-have-we-gone-too-far" target="_blank">pre-packaged foods</a>? — <b>Slashfood</b></li> <li>Discover <a href="http://www.chow.com/stories/11003" target="_blank">how to find bargain wines</a>. — <b>Chow</b></li> <li>Do you know what <a href="http://blogs.glam.com/glamdish/2008/03/24/in-season-now-ojai-pixie-tangerines/" target="_blank">Ojai Pixie Tangerines</a> are? — <b>Glamdish</b></li> <li>Insects are everywhere, <a href="http://www.culinate.com/articles/sift/eating_insects" target="_blank">and they're good for you</a> too. — <b>Culinate</b></li> <li>Should <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1135037" >Starbucks owe its baristas</a> $105 million? — <b>SavvySugar</b></li> <li>Bruce Willis is now a <a href="http://www.nypost.com/seven/03242008/gossip/pagesix/turning_to_wine_103349.htm" target="_blank">partner in the Bowery Wine Co</a>. — <b>NY Post</b></li> </ul> http://www.yumsugar.com/1140797#comment Anthony Bourdain bruce willis insects Starbucks tangerines wines yummy links Tue, 25 Mar 2008 08:18:19 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1140797 http://www.yumsugar.com/1129962 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/15259/12_2008/72077140.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="279"></span>Yesterday, many wild announcements were made during Starbucks' annual shareholder meeting. It's no secret, they've been making a lot of <a href="http://yumsugar.com/tag/starbucks" >interesting changes</a>, but some of the announcements were quite surprising. While the launch of <a href="http://www.savvysugar.com/1129947" >their own social networking website</a> is shocking, it was actually their <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/19/business/19cnd-sbux.html?_r=1&amp;ex=1363665600&amp;en=948237b09d26a068&amp;ei=5088&amp;partner=rssnyt&amp;emc=rss/&amp;oref=login" target="_blank">purchase of Coffee Equipment Company</a>, the makers of the fancy-pants Clover coffee machines.</p> <p>Clover coffee machines cost $11,000 each and are thought by many coffee snobs to be "amazing, absolutely amazing" — those are quotes from actual coffee snob friends of mine. The Clover machines will be put into select markets, and rumor has it that non-Starbucks cafés will no longer be able to purchase them.</p> <p>Other changes that they announced included improved automated espresso machines that grind beans fresh for each drink, as well as a new coffee blend and a rewards program. That's right, they're finally going to give you that soy milk or vanilla splash for free. It's about time, no?</p> <p>So what do you think, will these changes alter the way you think about Starbucks?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a> </p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1129962#comment coffee Starbucks Thu, 20 Mar 2008 05:00:00 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1129962 http://www.yumsugar.com/1089642 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/15259/10_2008/IMG_6030.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="67" width="550"></span><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/15259/10_2008/IMG_6010.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="413" width="550"></span>This summer a press release went out with limited fanfare. The folks at <a href="http://www.thehersheycompany.com/news/release.asp?releaseID=1028127" target="_blank">Hershey's were teaming up with Starbucks</a>. At the time there was very little news available, other than an upcoming Starbucks-branded premium chocolate. The news piqued my interest, but there was no word on when the products would hit the shelves. Turns out it's today.</p> <p>Using the expertise of Artisan Confection Company — a division of Hershey's that includes Scharffen Berger and Joseph Schmidt — Starbucks has created a line of products to sell in stores. There are three types of chocolate bars, tasting squares and filled truffles. Thanks to <a href="http://www.fabsugar.com" >FabSugar</a> — who hand-carried these samples back from New York — we were lucky enough to give them a try. If you want to learn more about each flavor, as well as what we thought of them, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1089642">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1089642#comment chocolate coffee Hershey's Starbucks starbucks chocolates Mon, 03 Mar 2008 08:30:31 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1089642 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1084740 <p><a href="http://www.gigglesugar.com/1084585" rel="nofollow">Our Long National Nightmare Is Over</a><br /> Not to be outdone by The Daily Show, Stephen Colbert also shows us what happened when he had to wait for his Starbucks coffee.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1084740#comment aside coffee Starbucks stephen colbert Fri, 29 Feb 2008 10:56:26 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1084740 http://www.yumsugar.com/1081544 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/15259/09_2008/jjonesdsstarbucks.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline right preview" height="295" width="393"></span>Not that <a href="http://yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a> needs any more free publicity — which is what <a href="http://blog.oregonlive.com/nwheadlines/2008/02/other_than_gobs_of_free_public.html" target="_blank">some folks are calling their retraining shutdown</a> — but last night on <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tag/the+daily+show" >The Daily Show</a>, correspondent Jason Jones talked about the shut down. In this clip, Jones tries to figure out what to do during the "full-caffeine eclipse." My favorite parts include when he asks his local deli owner for a fancy drink only to be greeted with a completely blank expression. Or perhaps it was when he wanted to know where the "<a href="http://www.gigglesugar.com/tags/douchebag" >douchebags</a> with laptops" were. </p> <p>Tell me which part is your favorite, watch the clip when you </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1081544">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1081544#comment coffee humor jason jones Starbucks the daily show Thu, 28 Feb 2008 10:41:31 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1081544 http://www.yumsugar.com/1078447 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/15259/09_2008/80021538.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="350"></span>As you know — or maybe found out on accident — <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks retrained its employees last night</a>. So did it help? </p> <p>I did a very unscientific poll at the Sugar HQ, and the responses ranged from "I didn't notice anything different" to "Totaaaalllly. It was 100 percent better tasting." Several folks thought the staff seemed more cheerful, but they thought perhaps it was because of the nice weather. Sort of a mixed bag really, but not one complaint.</p> <p>However if there had been complaints, there's a new policy that would have helped out. Starbucks has stated that if the customer is not happy, it's not happy. The <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2008/02/27/news/companies/starbucks_espresso.ap/index.htm?section=money_topstories" target="_blank">new post-training promise</a> is, "Your drink should be perfect, every time. If not, let us know and we'll make it right."</p> <p>Another change that also went into effect this morning is that instead of pouring shots straight into the cups, they're going into shot glasses first. This way the baristas can see the quality of the shot, something they didn't do before.</p> <p>So tell me, have you been to a Starbucks today? If so, have you noticed any changes?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a> </p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1078447#comment coffee news Starbucks Wed, 27 Feb 2008 15:15:13 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1078447 http://www.yumsugar.com/1073479 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/15259/09_2008/ddonuts99.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" height="288" width="248"></span>Don't forget, your local <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1043852" >Starbucks is closing this evening</a>. From 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., they will be closed for retraining purposes. To take advantage of this closure, rival Dunkin' Donuts is offering small lattes and cappuccinos for 99 cents today from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. So if you need your caffeine fix, head over to your <a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/aboutus/store/Search.aspx" target="_blank">nearest Dunkin' Donuts</a>. And if you want a little chuckle then check out their commercial, which clearly pokes fun at Starbucks. To do so, just </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1073479">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1073479#comment ads coffee deals dunkin' donuts Starbucks Tue, 26 Feb 2008 07:28:31 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1073479 http://www.yumsugar.com/1043852 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/15111/07_2008/normal_Starbucks%20logo%20RGB-1.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="250" width="250"></span>If, on Feb. 26, you head to your local Starbucks after work and discover that it's closed, don't say I didn't warn you. On that Tuesday, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2004177542_baristas12.html" target="_blank">Starbucks will close all of its standalone stores</a>. The three-hour shut down is so that the employees — about 135,000 of them — can be retrained. Spokeswoman Valerie O'Neil <a href="http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2004177542_baristas12.html" target="_blank">said</a>:</p> <blockquote><p>We will have all new standards for how we create the drinks. They will be trained in creating the perfect shot, steaming the milk, and all the pieces that come together in a drink.</p> <p>It's really about ensuring that the customer experience that we provide is the best that it can be. </p></blockquote> <p>Starbucks has been going through <a href="http://yumsugar.com/tag/starbucks" >a lot of changes lately</a>, and the retraining of all of its employees is part of the plan to revive the brand and sales. </p> <p>If you're trying to figure out how you'll survive without Starbucks for those three hours, I should mention that the nearly 4,000 kiosks inside of grocery stores, airports, etc. may remain open. Those employees will be trained around the same time, but not necessarily on that same day.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1043852#comment business coffee news Starbucks Thu, 14 Feb 2008 11:40:51 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1043852 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1035768 <p><a href="http://geeksugar.com/1034706" rel="nofollow">Starbucks to Offer Free WiFi This Spring</a>:<br /> Talk about a great way to start the week! Starbucks has just announced that they plan to deliver free WiFi to 7,000 Starbucks across the US by early Spring.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1035768#comment aside geeksugar Starbucks Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:10:31 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1035768 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1001949 <p><a href="http://savvysugar.com/1000123" rel="nofollow">Starbucks Says No to Breakfast and Cannibalization</a><br /> Starbucks has been taking baby steps towards improving its business model and image, as proven with their recent $1 short brew testing and their latest announcement that they're getting rid of hot breakfast sandwiches.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1001949#comment aside SavvySugar Starbucks Vietnamese Coffee Cupcakes Thu, 31 Jan 2008 12:41:52 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1001949 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/984409 <p><a href="http://savvysugar.com/981830" rel="nofollow">News Flash: Starbucks Tests Dollar Cup of Joe</a><br /> Last week, many of you thought that Starbucks' removal of organic milk from their menu wasn't the best move for the company. As part of Starbucks' efforts to identify with its customers, they've been experimenting in the Seattle area selling a $1 "short brew" with free refills.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/984409#comment aside coffee SavvySugar Starbucks Thu, 24 Jan 2008 12:16:03 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/984409 http://www.yumsugar.com/962251 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/15259/03_2008/78599663.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline right preview" width="267"></span>Our pals over at <a href="http://nymag.com/daily/food/" target="_blank">Grub Street</a> are reporting that Rachael Ray might not be the perfect <a href="http://yumsugar.com/170909" >Dunkin' Donuts spokesperson</a>. After all, shouldn't a spokesperson like the product she's hawking? In a <a href="http://nymag.com/daily/food/2008/01/rachael_ray_doesnt_like_dunkin_1.html#gs-hp" target="_blank">second-hand story</a>, Rachael is being quoted as calling Dunkin' Donuts coffee sh*t. She also refused to continue until someone brought her HER coffee, which happened to be Starbucks coffee. </p> <p>I'm not sure if this is true, but it does sound rather diva-like. What do you think, would it surprise you if this was true? Perhaps she was just upset about the <a href="http://www.nypost.com/seven/01162008/business/no_days_with_ray_816024.htm" target="_blank">shake-ups at her magazine</a>? </p> <p>Also, would you agree with her? Do you like Dunkin' Donuts coffee?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/962251#comment coffee dunkin' donuts Rachael Ray Starbucks Thu, 17 Jan 2008 03:18:31 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/962251 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/943348 <p><a href="http://savvysugar.com/941612" rel="nofollow">Starbucks' Brings Back Founder Howard D. Schultz</a><br /> How does an international company — whose stock fell 50 percent just last year — begin to make a comeback? Starbucks' solution is to bring back their big shot. As of Monday the founder of the company, Howard D. Schultz, has returned as chief executive with hopes that he'll turn the company back around.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/943348#comment aside coffee SavvySugar Starbucks Wed, 09 Jan 2008 09:10:32 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/943348 http://www.yumsugar.com/930225 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/15259/02_2008/mccafe.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" height="170" width="351"></span>This Fall, your local McDonald's is going to experience the biggest change in 30 years: baristas. That's right, according to the <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB119967000012871311.html?mod=wsjcrmain" target="_blank">Wall Street Journal</a>, McDonald's locations nationwide will install coffee bars that serve up cappuccinos, lattes, mochas, and frappes. They will be located at the front, near the registers, and customers can watch their drinks being made; a big departure from the rest of the food prep. In addition to coffee, there is also talk of smoothies and bottled beverages.</p> <p>Interestingly enough, the <a href="http://www.wakeuptowhatsnew.com/" target="_blank">McCafe </a> — as it's being branded — has <a href="http://yumsugar.com/240774" >already taken off worldwide</a>, but I wonder how they'll do here. I'm curious to see what happens. As the article states, there's been a bit of a learning curve; not all McD's patrons know what a latte is. However I'm sure once their customers figure it out, they'll be ordering them in no time. What do you think? Is the McCafe a threat to Starbucks?</p> <p>To check out a video of the espresso machines at work in the test McDonald's in Kansas, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/930225">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/930225#comment coffee espresso fast food mccafe McDonald's restaurants Starbucks Mon, 07 Jan 2008 11:13:31 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/930225 http://www.yumsugar.com/919037 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/22_2007/starbuckslogo.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right outline preview" width="200">Starbucks recently announced their <a href="http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/071227/20071227005067.html?.v=1" target="_blank">new "skinny" drink ordering system</a>, it's a system that's been in place for years, only it didn't have a name before. If you'd like your drink to be sugar-free, with non-fat milk and without whip cream, you can now order it "skinny" instead of listing off the criteria. I'm glad to see that Starbucks is bringing it to people's attention, however not everyone is loving the name. In fact, one barista has even gone as far as to <a href="http://starbucksgossip.typepad.com/_/2008/01/a-barista-tells.html" target="_blank">write a letter to the corporate office</a>.</p> <p>The unnamed barista's letter reads more like a manifesto, however she does have some good points. She believes that the new ordering system will be confusing, especially if a customer wants whip or wants whole milk. Personally I don't think it's that weird, that's like having a regular, but with no-whip or non-fat. She also thinks it's one more thing for the customers to get confused by. I'll have to agree on this one, I still can't figure out why the tall is the small. However her biggest pet peeve is that she thinks it's politically incorrect. She points out that they don't call the whole milk versions obese, and she thinks overweight customers and employees might be offended or weirded out by it. </p> <p>So what do you think? Do you have an opinion about Starbucks' skinny ordering system? I don't have a problem with the name, although I do wonder just how "skinny" these skinny drinks really are.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/919037#comment coffee drinks ordering sizes Starbucks Thu, 03 Jan 2008 08:01:31 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/919037 http://www.yumsugar.com/870031 <p><span class="inline center"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/50_2007/IMG_5189.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image outline preview" height="550" width="413"></span>A few days ago I headed to Starbucks for some of their <a href="http://www.itsredagain.com/" target="_blank">red cup action</a> and noticed that they also had a wide array of holiday goodies. Usually there are frosted snowmen and cranberry bliss bars and a bunch of things in between. However, this year their new adorable feature is an iced penguin cookie. The cookie is a sugar cookie base with a mountain of icing on it including a little iced scarf tied around its neck. I think they're just adorable, however, their price is close to $2, so it's a little splurge for a few minutes of cute eats.</p> <p>Have you guys seen these in your Starbucks? If so, have you tried them? What'd you think?</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/870031#comment cookies cute holiday penguins Starbucks Tue, 11 Dec 2007 01:18:39 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/870031 http://www.yumsugar.com/846106 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/48_2007/IMG_7623.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image outline left preview" width="267"></span>A few weeks ago, I received a HUGE package from the folks at Starbucks. Inside was another box, and then another and another. After all the packaging material had been removed, I finally discovered a gigantic martini glass filled and the ingredients needed to create a Gingerbread Lattetini. It was a bit too early in the day for a mixed drink, so I set the glass aside and forgot about it for a while. Fast forward to yesterday: I was cleaning off my desk and wondered what to do with this gigantic glass. Then I wondered why I was wondering what to do, after all there was only one option — drink up!</p> <p>The Gingerbread Lattetini is a simple drink to whip up and is definitely festive. It's creamy, smooth, and sinfully sipable. It is, however, a tad on the sweet side; almost like an alcoholic version of a creamy cinnamon butterscotch candy. It is also simple to make, so if it sounds like something you'd like to indulge in, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/846106">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/846106#comment alcholic drinks gingerbread lattetini happy hour recipes schnapps Starbucks Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:31:31 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/846106 http://www.yumsugar.com/773601 <ul> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/45_2007/cheesesandchow.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline right preview" height="120" width="160"></span> <li>Who doesn't love grilled cheese? Here are <a href="http://www.chow.com/stories/10785" target="_blank">ten variations on the classic theme</a>. — <b>Chow</b></li> <li>Get the secret to Giada's <a href="http://topsecretrecipes.ivillage.com/food/2007/11/giada_de_laurentiis.html" target="_blank">Veal and Lemon Saltimbocca</a>. — <b>Secret Sauce</b></li> <li>Holiday drinks are showing up at Starbucks, including a new <a href="http://bakingbites.com/2007/11/shortbread-lattes-from-starbucks/" target="_blank">Shortbread Latte</a>. — <b>Baking Bites</b></li> <li>UC Santa Cruz sticks to its hippy roots by <a href="http://www.slashfood.com/2007/11/08/uc-santa-cruz-to-buy-organic-produce-from-local-growers/" target="_blank">buying locally grown organic produce for their campus dining halls</a>. — <b>Slashfood</b> <li>Check out this breakdown of the <a href=http://fitsugar.com/766272">leanest cuts of meat</a>. — <b>FitSugar</b></li> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/45_2007/breadculinate.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline right preview" height="225" width="299"></span> <li>Here are <a href="http://www.culinate.com/read/culinate8/Leftover+bread" target="_blank">eight ways to use leftover bread</a>. — <b>Culinate</b></li> <li>Should <a href="http://www.yummr.com/yummr/blog_entry.html?i=rMpG5x" target="_blank">bartenders wear gloves</a> while prepping drinks? — <b>Yummr</b></li> <li>Is it over for the <a href="http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/food/2007/11/goodbye_roly_poly.html" target="_blank">traditional British pudding</a>? — <b>Word of Mouth</b></li> <li>Everyone thinks I'm crazy, but one of the best things in the world is <a href="http://kitchen.apartmenttherapy.com/food/inspiration/over-easy-egg-on-pizza-035929" target="_blank">eggs on pizza</a>. — <b>Apartment Therapy: The Kitchen</b></li> </ul> http://www.yumsugar.com/773601#comment bartenders Giada De Laurentiis grilled cheese pizza Starbucks yummy links Fri, 09 Nov 2007 09:01:33 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/773601 http://www.yumsugar.com/729178 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/0/6066/43_2007/img_6650.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline right image preview" height="200" width="300"></span>Who needs Starbucks when you can make your own <a href="http://pinchmysalt.com/2007/10/18/pumpkin-spice-scone-recipe/" target="_blank">pumpkin spice scones at home</a>? These delicious-looking replicas of the coffee chain staple bake in just 15 minutes and are topped with ginger-molasses icing. — <b>Pinch My Salt</b> via <a href="http://www.tastespotting.com/post/5000?goto#5000" target="_blank">Tastespotting</a> </p> http://www.yumsugar.com/729178#comment baking Pinch My Salt Pumpkin Spice Scones scones Starbucks yummy links Thu, 25 Oct 2007 05:30:16 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/729178 http://www.yumsugar.com/507676 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/32_2007/starbucks_oracle.gif" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="220" width="223"></span>Do you think that what you order tells the world a little bit about yourself? The folks responsible for the <a href="http://www.buttafly.com/starbucks/index.php" target="_blank">Starbucks Oracle</a> do. Just enter in your regular order - including size - and the oracle will tell you a little bit about yourself. I am apparently a "pseudo-intellectual," my friends hate me and I'm totally clueless. Oh man, I think it's time to change my order! </p> <p>So how about you, what is the <a href="http://www.buttafly.com/starbucks/index.php" target="_blank">Starbucks Oracle</a> saying about you?</p> <p>Source: <a href="http://www.neatorama.com/2007/08/08/th-oracle-of-starbucks/" target="_blank">Neatorama</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/507676#comment coffee drinks personality types Starbucks starbucks oracle Thu, 09 Aug 2007 04:48:31 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/507676 http://www.yumsugar.com/467236 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/22_2007/starbuckslogo.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" width="104"></span>Starbucks fans, you may need to break out your piggy bank. Due to the <a href="/361384" >rising cost of dairy</a> and the increase in fuel prices, <a href="http://home.ivillage.com/cooking/drinks/0,,bwm3q0fj,00.html" target="_blank">Starbucks is raising their prices by 9 cents</a>. This is the second price increase in less than a year. - <b>iVillage</b></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/467236#comment coffee ivillage prices Starbucks yummy links Mon, 30 Jul 2007 12:43:12 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/467236 http://www.yumsugar.com/416667 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/29_2007/icekacang.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline right preview" height="282" width="200"></span> <ul> <li>If you're looking for something a little different in your decorating scheme, try <a href="http://www.slashfood.com/2007/07/18/edible-centerpiece/" target="_blank">edible centerpieces</a>. - <b>Slashfood</b></li> <li>Learn about one of my favorite desserts of all time called <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/required_eating/2007/07/snapshots-from-asia-ice-kacang.html" target="_blank">ice kacang</a> (aka hong dou bing) - a shaved ice dish popular in Asia. - <b>Serious Eats</b></li> <li><a href="http://www.chow.com/grinder/3234" target="_blank">Justin Timberlake's new restaurant is now open</a>. I guess this time he's bringin' fried pickles back</a>. - <b>Chow</b></li> <li>Be sure to check out this guide on <a href="http://kitchen.apartmenttherapy.com/food/roundup-nationwide-papers/how-to-store-fresh-herbs-028006" target="_blank">how to store fresh herbs</a>. - <b>Kitchen Therapy</b></li> <li>Did you know? <a href="http://fitsugar.com/413599" >Lentils help you lose weight</a>. - <b>FitSugar</b></li> <li>Fox is really pushing the new Simpsons movie, they even have a <a href="http://wwff.wordpress.com/2007/07/19/mmmmmmdonut/" target="_blank">Ben &amp; Jerry's flavor called "Duff and D'oh-Nuts"</a>. - <b>Will Work For Food</b></li> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/29_2007/pimpanimalcookie.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline left preview" width="350"></span> <li>What's better than frosted animal cookies? How about <a href="http://bakingbites.com/2007/07/pimp-that-animal-cookie/" target="_blank">giant pimped out frosted animal cookies</a>. - <b>Baking Bites</b></li> <li>Do <a href="http://www.culinate.com/read/sift/obesity_microwaves" target="_blank">microwaves cause obesity</a>? - <b>Culinate</b></li> <li>Learn more about the <a href="http://dailytiffin.blogspot.com/2007/07/superfood-allium-family.html" target="_blank">allium family of foods</a> - such as garlic, chives, leeks, etc. - <b>The Daily Tiffin</b></li> <li>What happens when one man goes to <a href="http://www.171starbucks.com/" target="_blank">171 Starbucks</a> in one day? - <b>Via <a href="http://www.tastespotting.com" target="_blank">Tastespotting</a></b></li> </ul> http://www.yumsugar.com/416667#comment animal cookies centerpieces justin timberlake microwaves Starbucks yummy links Fri, 20 Jul 2007 09:03:38 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/416667 http://www.yumsugar.com/298287 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-298287"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/298287',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-298287');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline center"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/17470/23_2007/2003505181.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline" height="298" width="460"></span>I'm not ashamed to admit that I am a <a href="http://yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" rel="nofollow">Starbucks</a> addict. I get my double short cappuccino every morning at exactly the same time. Currently my all time favorite thing about my daily trip downstairs - literally there is a Starbucks <i>downstairs</i> - is my baristas. These boys know how to make a gal feel special, make wonderful caps, and make a day brighter. We know each other on a first name basis and they call me princess, darling, and honey while I entertain them with the latest details of my dating life. All of this got me wondering are they just buddies with me or simply great at their jobs? Please reader, do tell: Are you buddies with your barista?</p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/298287" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Are You Buddies With Your Barista?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, totally. My barista and I are buddies.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Kind of, they know my order and first name but that's about it.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> I don't drink coffee. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other. Tell me below!</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="298287" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/298287#comment barista coffee poll Starbucks Thu, 07 Jun 2007 06:00:01 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/298287 http://www.yumsugar.com/284506 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/22_2007/starbuckslogo.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" width="104"></span>Hey deal watchers! For some espresso drinks, <a href="http://starbucksgossip.typepad.com/_/2007/05/for_some_espres.html" target="_blank">Starbucks will charge you less and give you more</a>. - <b>Starbucks Gossip</b></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/284506#comment coffee Starbucks starbucks gossip yummy links Thu, 31 May 2007 08:28:39 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/284506 http://www.yumsugar.com/187043 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/12_2007/jenniferhudson.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="345"></span>Usually, when celebrities <a href="/92325" >demand things backstage</a>, they get them. However it looks like someone at Starbucks put their foot down and refused to give in to idol-turned-diva <a href="http://popsugar.com/tags/jennifer+hudson" >Jennifer Hudson</a>.</p> <p>Apparently Jennifer was supposed to perform at the <a href="http://starbucksgossip.typepad.com/_/2007/03/report_starbuck.html" target="_blank">annual Starbucks shareholder meeting</a> in Seattle. However, according to TMZ, after her agent made some zany demands, <a href="http://www.tmz.com/2007/03/22/it-aint-finger-lickin-good/" target="_blank">Starbucks pulled the plug on the performance</a>. Turns out that Chairman Howard Schultz didn't like the way her agent was dealing with his people and said enough is enough.</p> <p>So what were the zany demands? Try FIVE town cars (herself, hair and makeup artists, security, and her assistant), humidifiers backstage and baked chicken wings at 10:00am. I guess it was the chicken wings that was just too much. However, in Jennifer's defense, she apparently didn't know about the demands, her team came up with them all on their own.</p> <p>Chicken wings... at 10am? At that time of day I'm more about fresh yogurt, muffins and pancakes. I'd probably demand eggs benedict and waffles... How about you guys, if you were a famous diva, what would you demand at 10am?</p> <p><a href="http://wireimage.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/187043#comment celebrity coffee jennifer hudson Starbucks Fri, 23 Mar 2007 16:12:29 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/187043 http://www.yumsugar.com/165307 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/users/1/15259/10_2007/freecoffee.gif" alt="" title="" class="image preview right outline" height="217" width="281"></span>Since most of you seem to <a href="/129764" >enjoy caffeine</a>, I thought I'd let you know that there are THREE days this month (that's right, three!) when you can get a cuppa for free.</p> <p>The first is <b>today</b> ( March 8 ) at participating McDonald's. They're handing out free cups of coffee to anyone who asks for it. This is because they recently <a href="/131311" >beat out Starbucks</a> in a taste test. On a related note, I just read that they're planning on <a href="http://www.singleserveespresso.com/archives/2007/03/mcdonalds_to_expand_espresso_d.php" target="_blank">expanding espresso drinks nationally</a>.</p> <p>The second is next Thursday ( March 15 ) - Starbucks is promoting its second annual "coffee break" by pouring free 12oz cups of brewed coffee between 10am - noon.</p> <p>The last one is the following Wednesday ( March 21 ) - Dunkin' Donuts celebrates the first day of spring with a free 16oz cup of iced coffee.</p> <p>So mark your calendars folks, free caffeine for all!</p> <p>Thanks to our pals at <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com" target="_blank">Serious Eats</a> for pointing us to these dates.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/165307#comment caffeine coffee dunkin' donuts freebies McDonald's news promotions Starbucks Thu, 08 Mar 2007 01:39:52 -0800 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/165307