CAFE SESSION WITH STEVE: JANUARY 2024

Greetings, fellow coffee enthusiasts! As we gear up for the Super Bowl showdown between the Chiefs & 49ers, the excitement is palpable, albeit tempered by the fact that this match-up lacks the thrill of an underdog story or the novelty of a fresh rivalry, having seen these teams face off not so long ago in 2020. Yet, with the promise of an entertaining halftime show featuring Usher, we're ready to settle in for a good time. Also, as we approach the end of January, this week teasing us with almost spring-like weather, we're reminded of the impending tax season looming on the horizon. But fear not, for amidst the paperwork and number crunching, there's always a warm cup of coffee to provide solace. That said, in this Café Session, we’ll explore the intriguing question of whether you can expense your beloved brew, and ponder over the rising trend of coffee alternatives. So, grab your favorite mug, get comfortable in your go-to spot, and let's unravel the mysteries of the coffee world together. January may be drawing to a close, but our passion for coffee remains as fervent as ever!

WHAT’S BEHIND THE SURGE IN COFFEE ALTERNATIVES AND WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR OPTIONS?

Welcome to the caffeinated wonderland where coffee isn't just coffee anymore—it's a whole adventure! So, what's causing this delightful upheaval in the world of java? Well, imagine a realm where innovation flows as freely as the espresso, and trends brew up faster than your morning cup. That's right, we're witnessing a revolution in flavors, and coffee alternatives are leading the charge. The recent surge in interest is like discovering a treasure trove of taste sensations, with each alternative offering its own unique twist on the beloved bean.

One such trend that's taken the coffee scene by storm is the rise of mushrooms. Whether it's mushroom-based substitutes offering an energy boost sans coffee, or the delightful mushroom-infused concoctions like our famed Chagaccino at Rise, these fungi have proven to be more than just a passing fad. With a plethora of health benefits tucked away in their caps, mushrooms are firmly rooted in the future of coffee culture.

Hold onto your mugs though, because there's a whole world of intriguing alternatives out there. One that really caught my attention is dandelion coffee. Yep, you heard that right. It's an herbal tea brewed from dandelion roots, but somehow, it magically transforms into a brew that looks and tastes just like coffee. Sure, it won't give you that caffeine jolt in the morning, but it's a great way to enjoy that coffee flavor without the buzz, especially when the afternoon slump hits. And hey, remember, even decaf coffee still packs a tiny caffeine punch.

But that’s not all. Let's not overlook the vibrant world of Yerba Mate and Matcha. Yerba Mate, hailed for its smooth, earthy flavor and natural energy lift, brings a South American flair to your cup. Meanwhile, Matcha, with its vibrant green hue and rich, grassy taste, offers a serene yet invigorating experience that's hard to resist.

And for those seeking non-coffee delights, fear not! From the comforting embrace of a Chai Latte to the golden goodness of a Turmeric Latte, cafes are overflowing with tantalizing options to tickle your taste buds.

In the end, it all boils down to what you're hankering for—be it a morning jolt or a delightful midday indulgence while your buddy savors their coffee. It's akin to popping into a bar when cocktails aren't on your radar. There's bound to be something to tantalize your taste buds—heck, even White Claw is diving into the non-alcoholic craze with its line of non-alcoholic seltzers. Talk about a journey from its boozy roots to a full-circle moment! It's all about embracing the alternatives.

CAN I EXPENSE COFFEE IF I CLAIM IT AS ESSENTIAL TO MY PEAK PRODUCTIVITY?

The eternal conundrum of coffee and corporate expenses! Luckily, here at Rise, you are stepping into the wonderful world of Coworking alongside your cup of coffee, and who am I to stand in the way of potentially fueling your best work by charging that brew to the company tab? As the saying goes, "pick a loser" when it comes to selecting which credit card foots the bill for your daily dose of java.

I've witnessed my fair share of expense magic, like those moments at a bar where work talk seamlessly transitions into someone swooping in to cover the tab, citing the fact that they “Talked shop so I can expense this one”. It's enough to leave anyone flabbergasted about the intricacies of expense etiquette!

Now, about whether you can actually expense it on your taxes or not—I'm just a coffee expert, not a tax expert! But hey, if discussing your weekly duties over a cup of joe can somehow make it deductible, count me in for a refill!

Either way, in my humble opinion, every company should have a designated coffee budget. After all, if our productivity skyrockets with every sip, why not ensure there's a steady stream of caffeine readily available? That's why here at Enterprise, we've got coffee flowing like a river for our members. When you're in need of that extra boost, just swing by and let me work my caffeinated magic!

If you have a topic or question you’d like me to tackle next month, don’t hesitate to ask! Submit a question or problem in the comments below!