Starbucks To Offer Booze

Some Starbucks cafes will soon offer alcoholic drinks, according to a new announcement from the coffee giant. Wine and beer will be available in select locations, as will a new variety of "premium food" like hot flatbreads and small plates. The company has already been testing the idea at a location in Seattle since 2010 where it offers $5 beers (including the delicious Rogue Dead Guy Ale) and $7-$9 glasses of wine (including an Oregon Pinot Noir and an Argentine Malbec).

Starbucks says the goal is to increase the level of "relaxation" in its shops and offering alcohol after 2 p.m. is a great way to do that. According to the company's senior vice president of U.S. operations:

"As our customers transition from work to home, many are looking for a warm and inviting place to unwind and connect with the people they care about."

The good news for worried parents and soccer moms: all beer and wine bottles will be kept behind the counters and not on the outside display cases. Experts say Starbucks is desperate to differentiate itself from up-and-coming competitors like McDonald's, Dunkin' Donuts, and Panera Bread. They are also planning on launching a new chain of speciality juice shops so we'll have to wait and see if vodka screwdrivers are on the menu at those locations.

We say: This is a fantastic idea. Now we don't have to bring flasks of bourbon in our laptop bags when we go to Starbucks to work on blog posts! :)

Learn some mo': Starbucks to add beer, wine to menu at select coffee shops