starbucks via coffee

I stopped in to see my friend and barista extraordinaire, Sarah, yesterday. It feels like ages since I've had the shot of java courtesy of the crew at the South Point location, so it was nice to catch up. As we chatted about life, Sarah mentioned that today is the big launch of Starbucks new instant coffee, VIA.

To celebrate they are running a little in-store promotion. From Oct 2nd to 5th, you can hit up your favorite location and take the VIA Challenge. I take it from our discussion, you will be able to run a 'taste test' between VIA and their regular brewed coffee. You will also get a $1 off coupon towards your first purchase of Via. Which Sarah tells me, comes in 3 or 12 packs.

I've tried both varieties, Colombian and Italian, and they are pretty darn good. I didn't think about it until our conversation, but as a baker these instant packets will be handy to have around for more than one reason. If you aren't a baker and you want to change up your regular hot coffee, why not mix your VIA with cold water, cold milk, or hot milk for something different. Let me know if you try it.

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starbucks southpoint - edmonton, ab

starbucks southpoint
3227 calgary trail
780.463.4300



My local barista, and friend, decided to give her place of work some promotion in my weekly update comments. I have no problem with this because it was a good thing for everyone who may read this and not just her work. She invited anyone to stop by and sample their new breakfast sandwich offerings and Pikes Place coffee for free yesterday.

I stopped by to find Sarah outside in a gazebo chatting up a steady flow of customers. The weather wasn't perfect for keeping the sandwiches warm so you had to walk in to sample. So much for a free drive-by meal :). Having already eaten, and busy with errands, I thought I would do my duty and snap a picture of the new offerings - I didn't know there was a wrap option.

And a closer look at the new sandwich options. Let me know if you get a chance to try them out, as I'm curious how they will sell or compete with other brands.

* I did not receive anything to post this, besides my free sample of pikes place roast coffee.

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starbucks southpoint- edmonton, ab

Even though I have an espresso machine at home, it doesn't always do the trick. Sure it makes a great shot, even if I have to clean up, but there is no one to talk with. So on mornings when I'm feeling particularly sprightly, I know I'm just a short drive away from a good laugh, conversation, or at the very least..people watching. Thanks Sarah, you are a wonderful barista. I'm glad you enjoy your job so much; I think it would be great if most people could feel that good at work. Below is my one of my two usual options...Can anybody decipher the Starbucks code.


venti, 6 shot, americano, no room, sugar free hazelnut - like heaven in your mouth!

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miss silvia

Today, like many of those before it, is made a little more enjoyable with a fresh espresso. I feel lucky enough in my time to have picked up a Rancilio Silvia, a machine I highly recommend for the home. I'm not a sweet coffee or tea drinker, so I keep it pretty simple. Espresso's straight up or an American with sugar free hazelnut; thanks to a friendly and very neighborly barista I have good access to coffee and knowledge.

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