This 'buzzy' California coffee chain is making its Arizona debut in Phoenix. What to expect
Popular San Diego-based coffee chain Better Buzz is opening its first location outside California on Glendale Avenue near Seventh Street in Phoenix on Friday, Feb. 16.
Arizona was an easy choice for the brand's expansion, said Amanda Cameron, vice president of marketing. She said since Arizona is so close to California, she felt that there is already "buzz" for the brand in the Valley, thanks to people who either moved to Phoenix from San Diego or have visited San Diego on vacation. And based on online traffic, Arizona is the brand's number one destination for shipments outside California.
Here's everything to know about Phoenix's newest coffee shop.
What's the vibe at Better Buzz?
"It's not a place to really come study, unless you put on your earbuds. It's more a place to, we say, get inspired, hang out and conquer your day," Cameron said.
Better Buzz has a lively environment with loud pop music and a bright, welcoming design. That's part of what's made it a fan favorite with a "cult-like following" at its locations throughout California.
The yellow and blue interior of the new Phoenix location is decked with bee-inspired decor; even the tiles on the wall and floor are honeycomb shaped. Outside, neon lights at the drive-thru spell out the slogan, "Life's better buzzed in Phoenix."
What's on the menu at Better Buzz
Better Buzz is known for the "Best Drink Ever" ($5.49), which is a classic Americano with Better Buzz's signature creamy vanilla powder. Other bestsellers include cinnamon cream cold brew ($6.49) and a chai tea latte ($5.49).
A new line of energy drinks also will be available at the Phoenix location. They are available in three flavors: original, berry pomegranate and fruit blast, and can be purchased either in a can or as an iced drink prepared by the baristas, topped with a colorful drink umbrella.
"We always like to launch our new locations with a drink that you can only get at that location, just to make it special and unique," Cameron said.
Is there food at Better Buzz?
Better Buzz's food menu includes a Better Breakfast sandwich made with cage-free egg, havarti, bacon, arugula and garlic aioli on a toasted pretzel bun ($9.69); an OG acai bowl ($10.99); and three-seed avocado toast made with sesame, chia and hemp seeds, crushed red pepper, onion, lemon, microgreens and butter on thick multigrain bread ($8.99).
Gluten-free bread is also available for the sandwiches.
How to visit Better Buzz Coffee
The official grand opening celebration for Better Buzz Coffee in Phoenix will take place Friday, Feb. 16, at 4:30 a.m. The first 200 people in line will receive a free hat, and anyone who signs up for the reward program or posts about the grand opening on social media that day will be entered to win free coffee for a year.
Additional Better Buzz locations are set to open later in the year in Queen Creek, Tempe, Scottsdale and Surprise.
Hours: 4:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Details: 717 E. Glendale Ave., Phoenix. 623-267-1797, betterbuzzcoffee.com.
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Reach the reporter at endia.fontanez@gannett.com. Follow @EndiaFontanez on X, formerly known as Twitter.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Better Buzz Coffee opening first Phoenix location with exclusive drink
