Women looking for a post-work watering hole can sometimes feel stuck between expensive restaurants and noisy bars full of sports fans and rowdy drinkers. Where to go for casual drinks without the faff of reservations or unwanted attention? Starbucks Evenings, a classy new drinks and snacks option, could be the answer.

Melbourne has long been known for its obsession with coffee and the skill that comes with making the perfect cup. But appreciation for a different kind of brew is emerging – tea. And it's being driven by specialist tea retailer T2, which is on a mission to educate its customers.

Two-thirds of tea-drinkers think that the hot beverage is a good alternative to alcohol when spending a night at home. Entrepreneur Alex Holland has now launched the UK's first specialist tea pub, aiming make the brew part of people’s nights out. But will it prove to be more than a fad?

Drinking coffee is practically a sport in the US. Everyone has their favourite team – whether it's Starbucks or an independent coffee shop – and a preferred technique, from a 'Kyoto Dripper' or a 'Neapolitan Flip'. And artisanal operations are tapping into the interest by offering coffee classes.