I have to say, every time I’m in a pinch, Starbucks has my back. Lately I’ve been ordering at the drive-thru on my way to work because I can’t seem to wake up early enough to brew myself a pot of the True North Blend at home. I’d love to be one of those people who wakes up two hours before they leave the house, sipping coffee and journaling on the back patio under the morning sun. But the reality is after I hit snooze three times, I get out of bed with just enough time to get ready. I have tried to be this person who gets up early to make themself a coffee, I mean I even bought the Perfect Coffee Maker, but I need my beauty sleep. So I’m grateful Starbucks is in my neighbourhood as I can swing by before the commute to work.
My go-to coffee in the morning is the Blonde Roast. I drink my coffee black, so I enjoy its smooth, balanced and subtly sweet flavour. My first choice is the True North Blend, made especially for Canadians with notes of rich cocoa and toasted nuts. If that’s not available, I opt for the Willow Blend; it’s bright and crisp with a more fruity taste. Starbucks also brews their coffee with filtered water, which enhances the taste of the beans.
My love affair with coffee goes way back. I started drinking coffee when I was four years old, thanks to the influence of my Finnish family; though at the time it was more like cream and sugar with a splash of coffee. Over the years, my tastes have evolved and my appreciation for quality coffee has deepened. I love coffee that much that I sometimes go as far as looking into sites such as neptune coffee, to find out what the best coffee brands are. You can never know too many coffee related facts, especially if you are someone who drinks this everyday. I rely on a good cup of coffee in the morning and I go to Starbucks because I know I’m going to get exactly what I want every time. But I do like to switch it up at times by making my own coffee at home.
Starbucks has a delicious selection of food and snack options too. I often order a banana with my coffee in the morning if I forget to take one from home. The breakfast sandwiches are a good choice if you want protein first thing in your day. I highly recommend ordering a side of their avocado spread if you get one of the egg sandwiches. Not only is it a super tasty addition to your breakfast, but it also adds extra healthy fats that support blood sugar balance and cognitive function. If you are still in two minds, then do a quick online search of ‘good breakfast sandwiches near me‘ and see what you should not be missing out on. Didn’t pack a lunch? They have nourishing snacks like kale chips, fruit, yogurt and nuts. If you’re looking for something to fill you up, check out the variety of sandwiches and protein boxes. I like the egg protein box because it comes with apple slices and almond butter. Almond butter is my kryptonite.
In a pinch to find a gift? Starbucks has a ton of cool products that would make wonderful gifts for the coffee and tea lovers in your life. Without fail, every Mother’s Day my mom gets a Starbucks gift card so she can stock up on her favourite goodies. I recently bought someone a Bodem French Press and they absolutely love it. I’ve also been eyeing the Ember Travel Mug for myself… It allows you to customize the temperature of your drink and maintains it. It takes me so long to finish a Venti, that it’s often cold by the last drop. This would be perfect! I can take as long as I want to finish a coffee without compromising taste or temperature.
If you’re really tight on time, use the Starbucks app for quick, easy service. You can get your coffee and food by the time you arrive in store when you order and pay ahead of time. The app also allows you to earn reward points and send gift cards. Now that summer is here, I often order a cold-brew coffee. No added milk, milk-alternatives or sweetener – just straight up black with light ice, maybe a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s a refreshing drink to enjoy on a hot afternoon outside. What are your favourite summer drinks from Starbucks? I’d love to hear! Also, if you’re after comprehensive brewing guides, equipment reviews, and coffee facts, visit the Full Moon Cafe, a virtual cafe where you can learn many different ways to brew espresso as well as loads of other useful information to quench your thirst for all things coffee!
For more healthy inspiration, including delicious recipes, be sure to follow me on my Instagram Account. I’m so excited for you to join in on all of my #DoTheDaniel adventures in Ottawa!
With love & gratitude,
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