CAFE SESSION WITH STEVE: APRIL 2024

Greetings, coffee comrades, and welcome to our April Café Session! Apologies for the slight delay in posting—we got caught up in the whirlwind of May flowers blooming. As we bid adieu to winter's icy grip and revel in the springtime splendor, there's an undeniable buzz in the air. And I'm not just talking about the caffeine-induced excitement coursing through our veins (though that's certainly a factor).

In the world of sports, hope springs eternal as both the Colorado Avalanches and the Denver Nuggets charge into the playoffs with championship dreams dancing in their heads. Could the Nuggets pull off back-to-back Championships? Could the Avs bring home the Stanley Cup for the second time in three years? We'll hold onto that hope, especially considering the consistently less-than-stellar performances of our Rockies and Broncos (hey, we root for the home teams, even if they test our loyalty).

But enough about sports; let's talk about the finer things in life—like kicking back with a cold one or a spirited libation. While Rise Café may not serve up cocktails, that doesn't mean we can't enjoy a little liquid indulgence on the side. So, whether you're sipping on a coffee creation or raising a glass of your favorite beverage, let's toast to good times and great company throughout the upcoming Spring!

This month's Café Session invites you to explore the tantalizing world of coffee delights. From uncovering their top drinks to pondering which decade's coffee culture you'd want to experience, we're diving deep into the caffeinated abyss and savoring every sip along the way.

So, grab your favorite mug, kick back, and let's embark on a journey through the aromatic landscapes of coffee history and contemporary café culture. Cheers to coffee, camaraderie, and the adventures that lie ahead!

WHAT ARE THE TOP DRINKS YOU SERVE AT RISE?

This is a good question, but I feel like it needs to be broken down into parts because there are so many ways you can have a cup of coffee nowadays!

First up, for the purists among us, we've got classics with a twist. Ever tried a cortado? This has definitely been a top seller at Rise for a while now. It's like a smooth jazz rendition of espresso and milk, hitting all the right notes without overwhelming your taste buds. Even my Dad, a staunch coffee traditionalist, dips into these from time to time, and that's saying something!

Now, let's talk about the latest craze hitting the Mile High City: mushrooms. If you haven't heard, mushrooms are all the rage here in Denver, not necessarily the trippy kinds, but the functional mushrooms. Chaga and lion's mane mushrooms are popping up in our drinks faster than you can say "brew-tiful." From canned concoctions to decadent chocolate blends, these fungi-infused treats are taking Denver by storm, and Rise Café is no exception to this. Often times it feels like I make dozens of these drinks a day. I think partly due to the awesome street sign the Renude Team made for their Chagaccino, but also, they really are that good! 

That said, if you're feeling overwhelmed by choices (or just hungover from last night's tequila escapades), fear not! Remember, baristas are there, not only to make your coffee, but to help guide you to the perfect cup!

WHICH DECADE’S COFFEE CULTURE WOULD YOU WANT TO EXPERIENCE?

If I could hop into a coffee time machine and experience a different decade's coffee culture, I actually wouldn’t. I’m very happy living in the current world of Coffee Culture. Why? Because right now, we're witnessing a coffee renaissance unlike any other. Gone are the days of simply labeling coffee as "dark and bold." Instead, we're delving deep into the intricate flavor profiles and subtle nuances of those humble coffee cherries.

Compared to other beverages like wine or beer, coffee is still in its infancy in terms of exploration. While wine has been swirling in glasses for thousands of years, undergoing countless variations and refinements, coffee is just beginning to spread its wings. We're not just tinkering with the roasting process; we're also witnessing a revolution in brewing methods. Say goodbye to the days of uninspired "bean water" – now, every sip tells a story, a journey through the intricacies of cultivation, processing, roasting, and brewing.

And let's not forget about coffee's role in shaping history, particularly in the United States. From the Boston Tea Party, where coffee became a patriotic alternative to tea, to the bustling coffeehouses of the 20th century, where intellectuals and artists gathered to fuel their creativity, coffee has woven itself into the fabric of American culture. It's more than just a beverage; it's a catalyst for conversation, innovation, and community.

So, while stepping back in time to experience coffee culture from decades past might seem tempting, I'll gladly raise my mug to the present – where every cup is a journey, every sip a revelation, and every moment a celebration of coffee's boundless potential. Cheers to the here and now, where the coffee is always brewing and the possibilities are endless!

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!