By Sthefanie Padilla | Photo by Holly Leitner
In a world where caffeine reigns supreme as the go-to pick-me-up, it is easy to overlook the myriad of delightful alternatives that can provide a boost without the jitters. Whether you are looking to reduce your caffeine intake, or you’re simply seeking new and exciting flavors, the Lake Geneva area offers a refreshing array of options to tantalize your taste buds.
When it comes to non-caffeinated beverage alternatives, the possibilities are as diverse as they are delicious. Herbal teas, organic juices and kombucha not only provide flavorful refreshments but also offer various health benefits. Some studies show that chamomile tea soothes the mind and aids sleep, while peppermint tea can aid digestion while providing a refreshing zing. Organic juices contain vitamins and nutrients to support overall health and vitality. Kombucha is rich in probiotics, promoting gut health and aiding digestion.
If you are in the mood for something more exotic, consider exploring matcha or bubble tea. Matcha, a finely ground powder made from green tea leaves, is packed with antioxidants and provides a sustained energy boost without the crash often associated with caffeine. Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, originated in Taiwan and gained popularity worldwide for its fun, chewy tapioca pearls combined with flavorful teas and fruit-infused drinks.
Looking for local spots to try these non-caffeinated delectables? Here are a few in the Lake Geneva area.
Green Bean Coffee at the Green Grocer and Deli
24 W. Geneva St., Williams Bay
The coffee shop at Williams Bay’s popular Green Grocer and Deli offers an array of non-caffeinated options including herbal teas like chamomile and rooibos. They also offer delicious smoothies, like the Wild Berry Smoothie made with mixed berries, yogurt and mega-antioxidant juice, and the Banana Bay smoothie with banana, yogurt and mega-antioxidant juice. For a vegan option, customers can substitute coconut milk for the yogurt.
O2 Lounge
647 W. Main St., Lake Geneva (Moving to 234 Broad St., Lake Geneva around May 1, 2024)
O2 Lounge specializes in bubble tea, offering flavors like Peach Fruit Tea, Taro Milk Tea, Strawberry Fruit Tea and Strawberry Milk Tea. Additionally, they provide fresh organic juices and ginger and turmeric immunity shots, believed by many to boost the immune system and support overall wellness. For those seeking other refreshing options, O2 Lounge also serves Aguas frescas and smoothies, providing a diverse array of flavorful beverages to satisfy every palate.
Niche
715 Hunt Club Court, Unit C, Lake Geneva (Lake Como)
This combination café and wine bar provides plenty of non-caffeinated options for the discerning sipper. According to their website, the café offers several different herbal tea options, including refreshing hibiscus. They also offer Italian sodas and a wide variety of Kombucha options, including Peach Blush, Berry and Lumeria. As their website proudly announces: “Niche ensures every sip is a journey worth savoring.”
Healing Grounds Cafe and Juicery
7510 288th Ave., Salem
Healing Grounds Cafe and Juicery specializes in cold-pressed juices bursting with flavor and nutrients. Try the “I am Energized” juice featuring apple, lemon and kale or the “I am Glowing” juice with pineapple, pear and ginger. Healing Grounds has recently launched a three-day juice cleanse kit that incorporates small meals, cold-pressed juice and supportive drinks to enhance detoxification and nourish the body. Additionally, they offer a “One Day Juice Reset” program where you can boost your metabolism naturally. This program includes five juices, one milk and a free “sunny day” shot or elixir, helping you curb cravings and improve digestion.
