Lifestyle

Scotch in the Glass: Beyond the Neat Shot

Scotch in the Glass: Beyond the Neat Shot

There’s something brewing in the glass that’s redefining how we think about Scotch. Once a symbol of solitary sipping, the spirit is now a catalyst for creativity in cocktails, proving that its depth and complexity can elevate even the most unexpected pairings. From the smoky richness of a Manhattan to the zesty brightness of a tropical highball, Scotch is no longer just a base—it’s a star in the mix. The shift began with a simple twist on the Manhattan, swapping sweet vermouth for something sharper, and a disco-era drink that somehow survived the ’80s. These variations didn’t just tweak formulas;…
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The Unfiltered Truth About Nicosia’s Coffee Scene

The Unfiltered Truth About Nicosia’s Coffee Scene

Get ready to sip on this: In Nicosia, the difference between a chain coffee and a specialty brew is less about price and more about the science of bitterness. Christos Soteriou, a local coffee enthusiast, admits that Starbucks’ Americano is a decent fallback when no better options exist—until you add a pinch of salt to cut the harshness. This trick, he says, transforms the drink into something “at least halfway-drinkable.” But it’s not just about survival; it’s about the broader debate over what defines “good” coffee in a city where chains dominate the landscape. Nicosia’s specialty scene, led by shops…
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Cloves in the Grinder: How to Salvage Your Coffee Setup

Cloves in the Grinder: How to Salvage Your Coffee Setup

Here’s what you need to know: A single clove can ruin a batch of coffee, and once it’s embedded in your grinder, it’s a full-blown crisis. The user’s dilemma—cloves ground into a coffee grinder—highlights a common yet frustrating problem: how to extract stubborn aromas and residues from precision machinery. The scent isn’t just unpleasant; it’s a chemical fingerprint that clings to surfaces, burrs, and even the air. This isn’t just about taste—it’s about trust in your equipment. The first step is acknowledging the gravity of the situation. Cloves, with their high oil content and volatile compounds like eugenol, bond aggressively…
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Savoring the Moment: Grant Garry’s ‘Room for Cream’ Invites You to Slow Down with Coffee

Savoring the Moment: Grant Garry’s ‘Room for Cream’ Invites You to Slow Down with Coffee

Listen up: Coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual, a conversation, a quiet rebellion against the rush of modern life. Grant Garry’s new web series Room for Cream isn’t about brewing techniques or bean origins. It’s about pausing, sipping, and letting coffee be the spark for something deeper. Launching in early February, the series invites viewers to trade speed for presence, turning each cup into a moment of connection. Garry’s inspiration came from a simple act: turning off the TV and savoring his morning coffee. “I needed to follow my curiosity,” he says. That curiosity became Room for Cream, a…
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Greek Roots, American Brews: The Brew Room Reimagines Coffee in Ardmore

Greek Roots, American Brews: The Brew Room Reimagines Coffee in Ardmore

In the heart of Philadelphia’s Main Line, where Greek heritage meets American innovation, The Brew Room is redefining specialty coffee. Nestled in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, this sleek yet warm space blends rustic wooden slats, white oak paneling, and blue mati pendants into a setting that feels both timeless and modern. But this isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. Owners Eleni and Danny Chrisidis, Greek immigrants with decades of experience in food and business, have crafted a menu that bridges continents. Their Freddo Espresso and Freddo Cappuccino, staples in Greek cafes, now sit alongside spanakopita and bougatsa, proving that tradition can thrive…
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The New Standard in Mocktail Mastery

The New Standard in Mocktail Mastery

Time to spill: The world of nonalcoholic cocktails isn’t just about avoiding alcohol—it’s about redefining what a cocktail can be. Once dismissed as a watered-down compromise, the category now thrives on innovation, balancing bold flavors with precision. Whether you’re sipping a spirit-free Negroni or a ginger-infused lavender spritz, the magic lies in the artistry behind the mix. Bars are no longer just replicating classic formulas; they’re breaking free from the playbook to craft drinks that feel as intentional as their alcoholic counterparts. The shift isn’t just trendy—it’s rooted in a deeper cultural shift. More patrons are seeking clarity, health-conscious choices,…
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The Poet’s Dream Is Getting Its Moment in the Sun

The Poet’s Dream Is Getting Its Moment in the Sun

The verdict is in: Bénédictine, that amber-hued liqueur with a reputation for being too niche, is finally getting its due. For years, it lingered in the shadows of cocktail history, overshadowed by more popular spirits. But now, thanks to bartenders like Shawn Lickliter, the Poet’s Dream—a drink once buried in a 1937 cocktail book—is clawing its way back into the light. Lickliter, owner of Vandell in Los Feliz, isn’t just reviving a forgotten recipe; he’s redefining how we think about balance, texture, and the quiet power of a well-chosen liqueur. The Poet’s Dream isn’t about showy flair. It’s about harmony.…
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Canned Wines Are Here to Stay—Here’s Why You Should Try One

Canned Wines Are Here to Stay—Here’s Why You Should Try One

This might just change your routine: Canned wines are rewriting the rules of sipping. No longer a novelty, they’re a sleek, practical alternative to traditional bottles—perfect for summer, travel, or impromptu gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a casual drinker, these cans deliver quality without the hassle. The shift isn’t just about convenience; it’s about reimagining how we enjoy wine in a world that’s increasingly on the go. Canned wines shine in their simplicity. Take Vinny Blanc, a Grüner Veltliner-Riesling blend that costs about $22 for a 4-pack—equivalent to 1.25 standard bottles. Its tart apple and citrus notes…
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When Wine Lovers Know More, Your Gift Should Be Rarer

When Wine Lovers Know More, Your Gift Should Be Rarer

Real talk: Gifting wine isn’t just about picking a bottle—it’s about decoding the recipient’s palate. The more they know about wine, the more likely they’ll roll their eyes at a generic bottle. Think of it as a language: a novice might appreciate a bold Cabernet, but a connoisseur will see it as a basic starter kit. Avoid the trap of mass-market “luxury” wines like Veuve Clicquot. These are the champagne equivalents of Amazon gift cards—predictable, unexciting, and destined for endless regifting. A friend once received a bottle of Veuve Clicquot with a happy anniversary card, only to discover she’d never…
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San Antonio’s Coffee Festival Unveils 2026’s Best Roasters and Must-Try Brews

San Antonio’s Coffee Festival Unveils 2026’s Best Roasters and Must-Try Brews

Pour yourself a cup for this one: The San Antonio Coffee Festival is back, and this year’s lineup is a masterclass in specialty coffee. Returning to Hemisfair’s Civic Park on February 7, the event promises 80+ coffee varieties, live music, art installations, and workshops that’ll make you rethink your relationship with the bean. For coffee purists and casual sippers alike, it’s a chance to taste, learn, and connect with the city’s thriving roastery scene. This isn’t just about the coffee—it’s about the stories behind it. Pulp Coffee Roasters, the OGs of San Antonio’s specialty scene, bring decades of craft roasting…
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