Bear Bites: Local Winter Beverage Showdown

As the holidays roll in, coffee shops are offering festive drinks. From refreshing cold brews to cozy lattes, trying the most popular seasonal beverages from local cafes is a must. Here’s how they stack up.

Philz Coffee Winter Bliss Cold Brew: 6/10

Taylor Bentley / M-A Chronicle

Philz’s Winter Bliss Cold Brew elevates their classic cold brew with a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Smooth, rich, and not too sweet, this is the perfect drink for a cold day. While the spices are too subtle to feel festive, it’s a solid pick for those who like their cold brew with a seasonal twist.

Andytown Coffee Roasters Minty Mocha: 9/10

Taylor Bentley / M-A Chronicle

 The Minty Mocha from Andytown is the perfect choice for mint-chocolate lovers. It’s a blend of creamy mocha with a refreshing, homemade peppermint syrup and chocolate ganache. The espresso is strong but not overpowering, and the smooth texture with whipped cream makes it feel even more special. It’s indulgent without being too heavy.

Coffeebar Pumpkin Spice Latte and Tiramisu Latte: 8/10

Taylor Bentley / M-A Chronicle

The Pumpkin Spice Latte from Coffeebar makes for the perfect seasonal drink. It has just enough pumpkin and spice, with a creamy accent and a cozy feeling. The cinnamon and clove flavors balance out the sweetness.

The Tiramisu Latte has a thick texture and a unique twist of cocoa. It’s smooth and softly seasoned, but some might want a bit more punch from the tiramisu inspiration.

Starbucks Cran-merry Lemonade Drink: 7/10

Taylor Bentley / M-A Chronicle

Starbucks’ Cran-merry drink is a fruity, refreshing choice that mixes cranberry, pomegranate, orange, and lemonade. The tart drink feels too summery but is a fun option for those who prefer something lighter than coffee. If you are craving a fruity drink during the holidays, this is a solid choice.

Peet’s Coffee Season Spice Latte: 7/10

Taylor Bentley / M-A Chronicle

Peet’s Seasonal Spice Latte has a strong taste for those who are adventurous. Though potentially too spicy for some, it is without a doubt a fun drink. It is not too sweet, and a great option for those who want a classic cozy drink without a sugar overload. 

These seasonal drinks bring something special to the table around Menlo Park, whether it is Philz’s Smooth Winter Bliss Cold Brew or Andytown’s indulgent Minty Mocha. If you’re looking for a classic winter drink, then Coffeebar’s Pumpkin Spice latte will hit the spot. Starbucks’ Cran-merry drink is perfect if you want something fruity, while Peet’s season spice latte keeps it cozy with a comforting spiced flavor.

If you want something that really stands out, Andytown’s minty mocha is the winner—rich, creamy, and refreshing all at once. Andytown understands the assignment.

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