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Showing posts with the label coffee

Croatian Man Transplants Vietnam's Sidewalk Coffee Culture to the Netherlands

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Matko Kmezic starts his day at 5 a.m. on weekends, preparing his Vietnamese coffee filter, cups, condensed milk, and ice before heading out on his tricycle to Oosterpark in Amsterdam. The 27-year-old sets up a small stall marked "Viet Drip Cafe" and offers a menu of traditional Vietnamese drinks, including iced milk coffee, bac xiu (southern white coffee), salted coffee, and egg coffee. As people gather, he carefully drips robusta coffee into the cups, adds milk, and serves it with a smile. Patrons sit on low plastic chairs around the cart, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the park. Some passersby are curious about why he is selling Vietnamese coffee when he isn’t Vietnamese. Kmezic laughs and responds, “Do you have to be Italian to make an espresso or cappuccino?” His answer reflects his deep appreciation for the culture he has embraced. Matko Kmezic (third from L) with customers at his coffee stall in Oosterpark in the Dutch capital Amsterdam, Nov. 2025. Photo courtes...

The Aussie Visionary Who Bet It All on Casino Revolution and Your Morning Coffee

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A Journey of Innovation and Problem-Solving Bill Purton, a man known for his inventive spirit, found himself frustrated while waiting for a latte. This simple annoyance led him to create a solution on a napkin, showcasing his knack for turning everyday challenges into groundbreaking ideas. From Coffee to Casinos: The Early Years Born and raised in country Victoria, Bill Purton developed a passion for quality coffee while working in Carlton’s inner-city area. His journey took him from Melbourne to Monte Carlo, Hong Kong, and Las Vegas, where he sold high-tech solutions to some of the world's largest casinos. His work began in the 1980s with a modest plastic-moulding business, which eventually grew to 125 employees by 2005 when he sold it to a U.S. company. With a scientific background, Mr. Purton worked in the research department at the Royal Children’s Hospital before venturing into the casino industry. He initially created plasticware for lab use but expanded his expertise by ...

Top Travel Mugs: 7 Coffee Cups Tested by Our Team – The Best Brands to Buy

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Choosing the Perfect Travel Mug for Your Journey For many, a travel mug is as essential as a ticket when heading out on a trip. Whether you're a coffee lover, tea enthusiast, or prefer hot chocolate, finding the right travel mug can make all the difference in keeping your drink warm and secure during long journeys. Travel mugs are tested for their ability to retain heat, spill resistance, and overall durability. They must withstand the rigors of daily use, from public transport to being tossed around in a bag. The ideal travel mug should not only keep your beverage at the right temperature but also be practical, stylish, and easy to carry. Key Factors to Consider When selecting a travel mug, several factors come into play. Some people may prioritize size and capacity, especially if they want to carry soup or other liquids. Others might focus on style, looking for a mug that adds a pop of color to their accessories. For commuters, budget-friendly options are often preferred, whi...

Global Coffee Giant Escalates Ambitions to Topple Starbucks in the U.S.

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The Rise of Luckin Coffee in the U.S. Market Luckin Coffee has taken a bold step into the American coffee market, aiming to challenge the long-standing dominance of Starbucks. Known for its aggressive expansion strategy in China, the company is now applying similar tactics to the United States. Since opening its first U.S. location in May, Luckin has already expanded to five stores in New York City, signaling a clear intent to grow rapidly. The stores operate without cashiers, relying entirely on mobile app orders for customer convenience. This model allows customers to place their orders and collect them quickly, streamlining the process. While base prices are comparable to those at Starbucks, Luckin’s main competitive edge lies in its use of discounts and coupons through its app. These promotions often offer up to 50% off the original price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, this pricing strategy has raised concerns among industry experts. Acc...

Want a Luxurious $9,000 BMW Engine Espresso Machine? Of Course!

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A Unique Fusion of Motorcycling and Coffee Culture For enthusiasts who have a deep passion for both motorcycles and the art of brewing coffee, a groundbreaking collaboration between BMW Motorrad and ECM Manufacture has created something truly special. Ahead of the upcoming BMW Motorrad Days 2025, the two brands have unveiled a high-end, super-limited-edition espresso machine that blends the iconic design of the R 18 with the precision engineering of a premium espresso machine. This unique creation is not just a novelty—it’s a statement. The ECM x BMW Motorrad Big Coffee Boxer is a one-of-a-kind piece that captures the essence of both worlds. For those who love their BMW R 18 and also appreciate the rich experience of a perfectly brewed espresso, this machine could be the ultimate dream come true. A Limited Run of 80 Units While the initial version of the machine made its worldwide debut at the 2025 BMW Motorrad Days, it won’t remain exclusive to the event for long. ECM Manufacture ...