Top 5 coffee chains: where to go for your next cup of joe

Coffee’s a polarizing topic that can split any crowd of caffeine fiends — light roast fans savor its subtle vibes, dark roast diehards crave that gut-punch intensity, and some just want a sugary, coffee-kissed dessert drink. U.S. coffee chains offer everything from meticulously roasted brews to wild concoctions that are far more indulgent than yourContinue reading “Top 5 coffee chains: where to go for your next cup of joe”

7 Tips for Campfire Cooking

Campfires reconnect us with nature, offering warmth, bug protection, and a cozy centerpiece for gatherings, whether camping with friends or stargazing in your backyard. In addition to that, they’re perfect for cooking nearly anything, from basic burgers to gourmet kebabs. Here are 7 tips for campfire cooking: 1. Check Weather and Location Safety first—fire’s noContinue reading “7 Tips for Campfire Cooking”

Top 6 Finishing Salts for Steak

A killer grilled steak only needs a solid finishing salt (and maybe a fork and knife) to be enjoyed. Not all salt is created equal, though, and minerals like calcium and magnesium vary by source — land-mined or sea-evaporated. These variables shape the crystals’ size, color, and flavor, making each salt unique. Beyond just seasoning,Continue reading “Top 6 Finishing Salts for Steak”

Coffee Beanery Impresses with Flavored Coffee

Disclosure: I was gifted a box (a very cool, reusable, storage box) of flavored coffee varieties as a thank you for a piece I did on Tasting Table: Best Coffee Shops in the U.S. Coffee Beanery also shared its expertise with me on another piece regarding making iced coffee. There was no obligation for thisContinue reading “Coffee Beanery Impresses with Flavored Coffee”

The Individual Pour-Over Coffee Packets You Didn’t Know You Wanted

Hooked Coffee Disclosure: I received sample packets of Hooked Coffee to try, with the option of a product write-up. I was intrigued with the individual pour-over options, which are pre-measured, conveniently sealed, and ready-to-go for your immediate use. Different than instant granules and dunk bags, this single-serve pour-over coffee felt like an upgrade without owningContinue reading “The Individual Pour-Over Coffee Packets You Didn’t Know You Wanted”

Bean and Bean Coffee Company

Disclosure: This write-up is based on a gift received from Bean and Bean Coffee Company. Bean and Bean Coffee Company is a mother and daughter owned coffee brand out of New York. Claiming USDA organic, fair trade, and direct trade, this coffee company boasts rare varieties of coffee beans from award-winning farms. The Purple SneakerContinue reading “Bean and Bean Coffee Company”

[fiction]: The Lake on Whippoorwill Way

The late afternoon sun poked through the canopy of trees, casting long shadows across the lake. The shadows danced and beckoned as a light fog rode in on a damp breeze. Michael buttoned his pea coat as a shiver traveled up his spine. He looked out over the lake and turned up his collar. TheContinue reading “[fiction]: The Lake on Whippoorwill Way”