Rumors of Costco Food Court's Potential Shift to Coca-Cola Ignite Excitement Among Fans
The battle of the sodas is about to unfold in the food court. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Image Credit: Sheila Fitzgerald / Shutterstock. Design by: Eat This, Not That! It might be finally happening—for the first time since 2013, the Costco food court may offer Coca-Cola instead of Pepsi, and fans on social media are very excited about the potential switch. While the giant warehouse chain hasn't officially confirmed the change (we did reach out, stand by), eagle-eyed Redditors in California noticed the Pepsi machines were disappearing from food courts. "Monterey Park, CA. All Pepsi dispensers are gone," one Redditor posted. "Include Coke Zero and my local Costco will be sick of my face real quick," one excited fan commented. "Please for the love of god let me get a coke zero, I would get one every time I shop," another gushed. Another Redditor posted, "Good news for my fellow Costco-going [diet] coke enjoyers. My well-placed source said 'early 2025'." Costco members seem thrilled at the news, with one saying, "Don't toy with my emotions like this…". The general consensus appears to be that Coke is vastly preferred over Pepsi, and customers don't understand why the switch wasn't made earlier. Many commenters are hopeful that Costco will start selling Dr Pepper. One Reddit user expressed, "I never take advantage of the hot dog and drink combo because I don't want to waste my weekly soda allowance on Pepsi. If they offered Dr Pepper, I would definitely buy that deal much more frequently. I can guarantee there would be a noticeable increase in sales in Texas." Even those who have stopped drinking soda are thrilled for their Coca-Cola-loving friends. "I was SO THRILLED when I heard this news… then I realized I haven't had a Diet Coke in a decade. (I had to quit soda for health reasons.) I used to be such a fan of Coke products! I would sip on Diet Coke all day long. So I’ll celebrate for everyone else!" Influencer Ryan Quinlan (@butthatsmyopinion) announced the news via a December Instagram post, and followers were very excited at the news. "They're bringing Coca-Cola products back to the Costco food court. That means instead of having Pepsi, Mountain Dew, or Starry, you'll have sodas like Coke, Sprite, Fanta, and root beer," he said. "Coke rules. Pepsi drools," one person commented. "Haven't bought a drink from Costco since they went to Pepsi. I stop at McDonald's on the way there and take me Coke in with me. Saves me an extra stop," another user said. For those who prefer Pepsi over Coke—enjoy the option while you can, because it might soon be gone forever (or at least for a long while). And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 100 Unhealthiest Foods on the Planet. Ferozan Mast
McDonald's is set to shut down three CosMc's outlets while simultaneously launching two new ones.
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. McDonald's plans to shutter three locations of its spinoff brand, CosMc's, and open two more restaurants in Texas. The company said smaller locations work better for the test, which led to the decision. McDonald's introduced CosMc's as its strategy to tap into the expanding market for "afternoon beverage pick-me-up occasions." McDonald's will shutter three locations of its drinks-focused spinoff brand, CosMc's. To test the concept, the fast-food giant opened its first CosMc's location more than a year ago in the Chicago suburb of Bolingbrook, followed by six more in Texas. McDonald's has converted larger namesake restaurants into CosMc's, in addition to building smaller prototype locations. The company announced on Thursday that the smaller stores have proven to be more effective for testing purposes. Consequently, McDonald's plans to shut down three of its larger CosMc's locations while launching two additional small restaurants in Texas. While the specific sites for the openings and closures have not been revealed, CosMc's website indicates that a new store is on the way to Allen, Texas. On Thursday, McDonald's revealed additional insights from their pilot program. The most popular food item, available at all hours, is the savory hash browns, closely followed by McPops, which are the chain's small filled doughnuts. The leading beverages include the Island Pick Me Up Punch, Churro Cold Brew Frappe, and Sour Energy Burst. The company has stated that the CosMc's test will persist for the "foreseeable future." McDonald's introduced CosMc's as its strategy to tap into the expanding market for "afternoon beverage pick-me-up occasions." While CosMc's menu features some McDonald's classics, it also offers a host of new items playing off other beverage and snacking trends, like its iced turmeric spiced lattes, tropical spiceade and pretzel bites. Starbucks, Dutch Bros. and bubble tea chain Kung Fu Tea have found success with younger consumers by offering customizable cold drinks. The new brand takes its name from CosMc, a character from McDonaldland that featured in commercials during the late 1980s and early 1990s. CosMc is an extraterrestrial being with a strong desire for McDonald's cuisine. Although the extent of McDonald's growth plans for CosMc's remains uncertain, it currently represents a tiny fraction of the fast-food giant's extensive presence in the United States, which boasts over 13,500 restaurants. Nonetheless, McDonald's aims to gain deeper insights into the preferences of its CosMc's clientele; to this end, the company launched a dedicated loyalty program for CosMc's customers last year.
Chocolate Walk planned for downtown Plainwell
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Photos from last year's Chocolate Stroll in downtown Plainwell can be viewed above and below. The fourth edition of the Chocolate Stroll, which started in 2022, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 8. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Authored by Jason WesseldykSports Editor February is closely associated with Valentine’s Day, which in turn is closely linked to chocolate.This is precisely why the Chocolate Stroll in downtown Plainwell is such a perfect occasion.Set to take place on Saturday, February 8, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Chocolate Stroll promises to be brimming with "Valentine's Day vibes," as stated by Denise Siegel, the community development manager for the City of Plainwell.“The Chocolate Stroll is an ideal event for couples, friends, or families wanting to embrace the festive spirit,” Siegel remarked. “You can discover Plainwell, stroll along the riverwalk in our downtown area, and visit our Indoor Farmers Market.”"Numerous shops in the downtown area will showcase gift ideas inspired by Valentine's Day. Additionally, don't miss out on our restaurants, which will be presenting special offers for the Chocolate Stroll."The Chocolate Stroll is back for its fourth year, designed to highlight the local businesses in downtown Plainwell during a typically quieter season.“According to Siegel, the City of Plainwell is organizing the event to highlight our local businesses and eateries throughout February. By scheduling it around this time, it aligns perfectly with the Valentine's Day theme, which adds to its attractiveness for those taking part.”“It also plays a crucial role in rejuvenating downtown activities following the holiday season. The event is designed to attract visitors back to the heart of the city, sparking renewed activity and interaction. February serves as the perfect opportunity to rekindle consumer habits and foster a delightful atmosphere that subtly promotes spending and bolsters our local businesses.”"The Chocolate Stroll boosts foot traffic and sales for our stores, eateries, and Farmers Market during a time that could typically be less busy."Siegel described the Chocolate Stroll as an event that merges “luxury, camaraderie, and local appeal,” assuring attendees that they can look forward to an enjoyable day packed with activities."According to Siegel, a selection of chocolate delights will be offered at several of our locations, along with unique beverages from nearby bars in our Social District."Bars in the social district include the 10th Street Saloon and 1871 Taproom.“Siegel mentioned that attendees will have the chance to discover local shops, boutiques, and restaurants in a friendly and festive environment. He added that local businesses will provide special promotions to entice visitors to explore and shop.”Additionally, MI Grounds will provide children's activities sponsored by the Ransom District Library.As noted by Siegel, the specific specials that businesses and restaurants will provide are still in the works. However, individuals interested in participating in the Chocolate Stroll can keep an eye on the City of Plainwell’s Facebook page for updates. Additional details will also be accessible on the City’s website—plainwell.org—found under the Special Events section.
Discover the Top 5 Grocery Stores for Quality Meats in Charleston, SC
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Charleston, SC is renowned for its vibrant food culture and access to fresh produce. The city's grocery stores stand out for their selection of high-quality meats, perfect for everything from laid-back cookouts to elegant dinners. Below are five notable grocers in Charleston that provide exceptional meats to elevate your dining experience. 1. Whole Foods Supermarket Whole Foods Market extends beyond just Charleston, but it’s an excellent destination for those in search of a diverse array of responsibly sourced meats. Their offerings feature grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, and wild-caught fish, along with top-quality steaks and sausages. The knowledgeable butchers on-site can assist with custom cuts, ensuring you receive precisely what you require. On Trip Advisor, one person wrote, “My favorite grocery store and this is a very nice store! Location is on the highway minutes from town, so convenient.” Others weighed in, stating that the layout and location of the Charleston Whole Foods Market are favorable. 2. Harris Teeter Supermarkets Harris Teeter has become a beloved fixture in the Southern grocery market. Renowned for its premium selections at reasonable prices, the store's meat department stands out as well. Customers can consistently find USDA Choice beef, all-natural pork, and marinated chicken perfect for grilling. Plus, with weekly promotions on various products, shoppers can enjoy great savings. A shopper reviewed their experience at Harris Teeter on Yelp, writing, “Super nice grocery store. It’s like a Whole Foods but not as expensive. Great selection of local beers.” Several other people raved about the quality of meat as well as their pleasant shopping experiences. There’s no doubt that HT is a go-to spot in Charleston. 3. Publix Supermarket Publix is a reputable brand in the Southern United States, recognized for its commitment to high-quality groceries and popular buy-one-get-one (BOGO) promotions. Their selection includes fresh, premium-cut meats, featuring everything from bone marrow and tenderloin to ribs, chicken, and top-notch seafood. Furthermore, Publix offers a dedicated line called GreenWise, which specializes in organic and antibiotic-free meats. Their skilled butchers are always ready to fulfill special requests from customers. Reviewers on Yelp raved about the “great variety of produce and other food options.” Many people also had great things to say about the staff and their experience shopping at the multiple Publix locations in the Charleston area. 4. Ted's Meat Market View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Photo Credit: Pexels If you’re looking for a store whose main focus is meat, Ted’s Butcherblock is a haven for meat lovers. The store offers specialty cuts, house-cured bacon, and artisan sausages. They ensure every meat selection is exceptional. You can order their meats online, as gifts, or from their cafe. So many options for good meat to enjoy all year round. Ted’s Butcherblock has a 4.5-star rating on both Yelp and Trip Advisor. Many visitors have talked about the high-quality meat provided by the store as well as their “nice” beer selection. You can eat inside or take what you need and go. It’s definitely a staple in Charleston. 5. Burbage Meats Although not a grocery store, Burbage Meats in Charleston, South Carolina, is a highly respected butcher shop celebrated for its exceptional, locally sourced meats. They provide an array of premium options, including grass-fed beef, heritage pork, and free-range chicken. Their commitment to quality has garnered them a loyal clientele. The experienced staff offers valuable insights on various cuts and cooking techniques. The shop combines the classic allure of a traditional butcher with contemporary culinary practices. Burbage Meats also offers a wide range of specialty meats, which one reviewer on Yelp mentioned. “I love coming in here and exploring all the unusual things- the people are super friendly, knowledgeable and helpful too! I came today to pick up Venison stew meat. They also have Elk and Kangaroo!” they wrote. If you're on the hunt for top-notch meats in Charleston, SC, these grocery stores are your go-to destinations. They provide a variety of selections, from grass-fed beef to organic chicken, catering to any culinary need or financial plan. The next time you go grocery shopping, consider stopping by one of these locations to enhance your cooking experience.
AOL review: This intelligent pellet smoker utilizes AI technology to cook meat to perfection without any manual intervention.
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This pellet grill, equipped with AI technology, simplifies the process of smoking meat and various other dishes. (AOL / Nick Woodard) Artificial intelligence, often known as AI, is increasingly being integrated into various household items, enhancing their functionality and user-friendliness. While this technology has long been present in devices such as computers and smartphones, it is now making its way outdoors, particularly into our grilling equipment. The Brisk It Origin 580 Smart Grill is one of the first AI-enabled grills on the market, and this WiFi-connected smoker can cook meat (and other foods) to your exact preferences, without you having to lift a finger. That means no more burnt brisket or overdone steak. It sounds too good to be true, so we tested it to find out if this “smart” grill is worth buying. This advanced pellet grill, equipped with AI technology, is a modern addition to your outdoor cooking setup, assisting you throughout the grilling journey. It's an excellent choice for beginners in the world of smoking, and it comes at a more affordable price compared to other smart grilling options. Pros AI streamlines smoking process Easy to set up Wide selection of in-app recipes Reasonably priced Discover Additional Purchase Alternatives View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This pellet grill, enhanced with AI technology, requires a WiFi connection to function properly. (AOL / Nick Woodard) The Brisk It Origin 580 is a pellet smoker crafted for low and slow cooking over extended durations. With a temperature range spanning from 165 to 500°F, it allows users to precisely set their desired cooking temperature using its digital controls, similar to how you would with an oven, distinguishing it from traditional gas or charcoal grills. This grill features a generous cooking area of 580 square inches, comprising a primary grilling rack of 428 square inches and an additional 152-square-inch secondary rack. The hopper, designed for pellet storage and distribution, can accommodate up to 22 pounds of pellets at once. With its sturdy stainless steel build and powder-coated finish, the grill has a total weight of 135 pounds. The Origin 580 is a modern take on traditional smokers. Equipped with WiFi capabilities, it allows you to adjust and keep an eye on cooking temperatures from afar using the Brisk It app, which also offers an extensive collection of recipes for you to explore. Taking innovation a notch higher, Brisk It boasts that the Origin 580 is the first grill powered by AI, utilizing generative AI and cooking automation to enhance your grilling experience. I wish I were more skilled with tools, but I can confidently say that putting together the Origin 580 is quite simple. It comes disassembled — mine was delivered on a large pallet — but includes everything you need, such as tools and a comprehensive instruction manual that guides you through the entire assembly process. There are a number of parts to consider, from the grill's four legs to its separate handles and trays, but as long as you take your time, putting together your new grill is a hassle-free task. To access the full capabilities of the Origin 580, you will need to download the Brisk It app and connect the smoker to your home’s WiFi. The app itself is incredibly useful, not just for controlling the smoker but for learning how to use it, as there’s an entire section of the app dedicated to tutorials. Even if you tend to be a bit old school when it comes to grilling, the Brisk It app stands out as an important accessory to this high-tech smoker. Prior to placing your initial rack of ribs on the Origin 580, it's essential to season the smoker in order to eliminate any leftover oils or traces from the manufacturing phase. The accompanying app will assist you through this process, and after operating the grill for 30 minutes at a temperature of 400 degrees, you'll be all set to begin your cooking journey. Artificial intelligence has become a popular topic of discussion recently, yet its applications vary significantly across different products. For the Origin 580, the smoker incorporates AI technology in a dual-faceted manner. To start, you can utilize what Brisk It refers to as “Vera AI,” which allows you to request a personalized recipe for any dish you wish to prepare on the grill. It will provide you with detailed, sequential instructions to guide you through the cooking process, and you can modify them as necessary to meet your specific grilling objectives. Additionally, regardless of whether you're using a standard recipe or one tailored to your preferences within the app, the smoker incorporates artificial intelligence to enhance your cooking journey. The Origin 580 can handle pre-cooking preparations, regulate its temperature autonomously, and alert you with notifications about the status of your meal. While you can always step in and make adjustments when needed, it’s impressive to have a smoker that can intelligently interpret cooking instructions and manage the process on its own. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The grill automatically adjusts itself to ensure that food is cooked just right. (AOL / Nick Woodard) (AOL / Nick) Let's cut to the chase: The Brisk It Origin 580 is the genuine article, simplifying the process of smoking meat into a straightforward, effortless experience. When using a new smoker, I prefer to kick things off with a tri-tip. This cut is ideal because it doesn't require an entire day like brisket does, yet it can still be cooked slowly over a few hours. To assist me, I consulted Vera AI for a recipe suggestion; I simply input the desired internal temperature and the time I wanted the meal to be finished. After that, I let the AI-driven smoker handle the cooking. I’ve had a WiFi-enabled Recteq Flagship XL smoker for over a year, and while I love it, I find myself constantly checking the app to make sure my meats aren’t cooking too fast or too slow, making little temperature adjustments to keep things progressing on time. The Origin 580, on the other hand, did all that for me. I instinctually checked the app several times, only to see the Brisk It smoker adjusting the temperature on the fly to keep my tri-tip on track to finish cooking at the time I specified. I set the smoker to do its thing and headed to the gym for a workout. When I got back, the tri-tip had just hit the perfect temperature. After taking the meat off the grill, I let it rest for around 20 minutes before slicing into it, revealing a beautifully cooked medium tri-tip. I usually reserve my smoking sessions for the weekends because I enjoy keeping a close eye on the meat to ensure everything turns out perfectly. Nevertheless, I tried this recipe on a weekday after work, and it turned out wonderfully. The more relaxed cooking method has opened up a world of culinary opportunities for me moving forward. As I allowed Vera AI to craft a recipe for my tri-tip, I discovered that the Brisk It app featured an enticing coffee rub tri-tip recipe as well. This is just one of the many mouthwatering dishes available within the app—ranging from brisket and Korean beef short ribs to smoked queso dip, hatch chili cheeseburgers, and even pizza. Every recipe comes with details such as preparation time, cooking duration, serving size, difficulty level, and suggested pellet flavor. Additionally, it outlines the necessary ingredients and equipment. When you're ready to begin grilling, simply tap the “Send to Grill” button in the app. The Origin 580 will take over, automatically adjusting the smoker to the correct temperature and determining the ideal temperature for your meat. Feel free to stick with your favorite recipes, but if you're looking to explore new culinary creations, the Brisk It app has a wide variety of choices to enhance your cooking skills. I really appreciate many features of my RecTeq smoker, but I must admit that its temperature probes feel a bit flimsy when monitoring my meat. In contrast, the Brisk It Origin 580 comes with two sturdier and more robust probes. While both options perform well in terms of temperature readings, the probes on the Origin 580 give me greater assurance regarding their precision and durability. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The grill's build quality falls short of expectations. (AOL / Nick Woodard) While the size and weight may introduce some bias, the Reqteq Flagship XL stands out as an exceptionally sturdy smoker that exudes quality and resilience. I have no doubt that the Brisk It will deliver plenty of excellent cooking experiences, yet it pales in comparison to a powerhouse like the Reqteq — particularly after I inadvertently broke one of the handles on the Origin 580 while setting it up on my patio. Although the Origin 580 is competitively priced among smart pellet grills, it still comes with a hefty price tag, leading me to anticipate a more robust construction. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The Brisk It Origin 580 features an advanced design and comes at a competitive price. (AOL / Nick Woodard) If you’re new to smoking and want a grill that makes the process nearly foolproof, this AI-powered smoker may be a worthwhile addition to your backyard. Brisk It is already known for its solid smokers, which are easy to set up and let you monitor your grilling from a smartphone, and with its AI technology, the new Origin 580 can essentially be your personal sous chef, taking any residual guesswork out of the grilling experience. Plus, it’s more reasonably priced than many other smart pellet smokers, retailing for around $700. (For comparison, the Recteq Flagship XL is around $1,600.) Although this grill is user-friendly and produces impressive results, I wish it were slightly more robust. Nonetheless, when you factor in its convenience, the Brisk It Origin 580 smoker stands out as a modern enhancement to the grilling experience, providing significant benefits for both beginners and experienced grill enthusiasts. If you're looking for a device that simplifies the smoking process, you might want to consider incorporating this innovative pellet grill into your outdoor cooking space. This advanced pellet grill, equipped with AI technology, is a modern addition to your outdoor cooking setup, assisting you throughout the grilling journey. It's an excellent choice for beginners in the world of smoking, and it comes at a more affordable price compared to other smart grilling options. Pros AI streamlines smoking process Easy to set up Wide selection of in-app recipes Reasonably priced Discover Additional Purchase Alternatives
Could the Best Sandwich in South Dakota Be Hidden in a Hardware Store?
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Source: Canva Often, the most remarkable treasures in life can be discovered in the most unexpected locations. This holds true for uncovering the finest sandwich in the Mount Rushmore State. It's not in Sioux Falls. In fact, it's over an hour's drive away. The best sandwich in the state lies in the far southeast corner of South Dakota. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Source: Canva What sets this sandwich apart as the best in South Dakota? It's all about the bread. It’s so tasty that Oprah Winfrey’s website praised it extensively back in 2014: The best bread in the world is not in Paris. It' not in San Francisco, and it's not being made in some chic little bakery–art gallery in SoHo, either. The best bread in the world is waiting for you right at 812 Cottage Avenue, in downtown Vermillion, South Dakota. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Photo by Andy Gott/TSM Nestled in Vermillion, Mister Smith's has been a beloved local gem for years. Tucked away within the Ace Hardware Store, its discreet location adds to its charm. Residents enjoy keeping this spot a hidden treasure, away from the eyes of visitors. Mister Smith's offers a simple yet distinctive approach to sandwich ordering, featuring a wide array of meats and bread choices. My top pick? The 3D Melt served on a rich, buttery baguette. Plus, this charming little eatery is known for having some of the friendliest staff around! To see the full write-up on Mister Smith's on Oprah's website, click here. And if you're in the neighborhood, check it out for yourself. Positioned at the convergence of South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota Wanna stand in three states at once? You can do just that at the Tri-State Iron Monument just outside the city of Valley Springs, South Dakota. While it may be an unassuming monument, it’s fascinating to realize how much history is embedded in the surrounding area. You only need to know where to search.