Northwest

Supermarket Coffee Is Evolving—But Can It Keep Up?

Supermarket Coffee Is Evolving—But Can It Keep Up?

This is worth savoring: Supermarket coffee aisles are no longer just dark roasts and instant brews. In North America, Western Europe, and Australia, grocery stores are quietly reshaping their coffee sections, stocking specialty-grade whole beans, cold brew concentrates, and even matcha powders. Yet, for all the progress, the market remains a double-edged sword—offering growth but demanding precision. The shift began with a simple truth: consumers want more. Once dominated by low-quality, mass-produced blends, supermarkets now cater to a growing appetite for quality, sustainability, and diversity. Brands like Stumptown and Blue Bottle now share shelves with Whole Foods and New Seasons,…
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Supermarket Coffee Is Evolving – But Roasters Face a Tough Battle

Supermarket Coffee Is Evolving – But Roasters Face a Tough Battle

The supermarket coffee aisle is no longer just a graveyard of dark roasts and instant brews. It’s evolving, but the path for specialty roasters is anything but easy. While demand for higher-quality, diverse offerings is rising, competing with giants and navigating shelf space limitations remains a hurdle. For roasters like North Roast and Upper Left Coffee Roasters, the grocery store is a double-edged sword: a chance to reach millions of consumers, but also a battlefield where freshness, pricing, and brand identity are constantly tested. The shift is undeniable. Once dominated by low-end, mass-produced blends, supermarket shelves now host whole bean…
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Seattle’s 10 Best Restaurants for Wine Enthusiasts

Seattle’s 10 Best Restaurants for Wine Enthusiasts

Seattle’s wine scene is thriving, blending Pacific Northwest terroir with global influences. Here are 10 spots where the city’s culinary and viticultural excellence collide. Canlis, a Grand Award winner since 1950, remains a benchmark for fine dining. Its prix fixe menu, overseen by chef James Huffman, pairs Pacific Northwest ingredients with verticals of Burgundy and Rhône classics. The Canlis Salad, prepared tableside, is a must-try. Wine director Ally Lanoue’s 2,600-label list includes rare vintages from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and Salon, proving the city’s depth. Across town, Metropolitan Grill elevates steakhouse classics with rare cuts like Japanese snow beef and…
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