Originally conceived at the request of Google, the building The Emily Hotel inhabits has been a cornerstone of the area since its construction. Over the years, the surrounding West Loop and Fulton Market districts have experienced remarkable growth, establishing a vibrant culinary hub within the area. Adding to that impressive roster is none other than The Emily Hotel, which features two on-site restaurants, a rooftop cocktail lounge, and a coffee bar. 

The hotel's on-site coffee bar has solidified their reputation as a trusted authority in providing exceptional coffee experiences to their guests. This commitment to coffee excellence made the search for an in-room coffee solution even more particular, ultimately leading to their discovery of Steeped Coffee.

APPROACHABLE LUXURY

Transitioning into a new hotel within a rapidly emerging culinary hotspot presents its own set of challenges. The Emily Hotel inherited an existing clientele, and the word on the street was that the previous incarnation didn't offer in-room coffee. As General Manager Zoltan Payerli of The Emily Hotel aptly points out, “...what I’ve learned [from] most of my background in luxury hotels is [that] a lot of luxury is about having the option; it doesn’t necessarily mean the guest needs to use it, they like to know that it’s there and can have it.” With a brand that's already synonymous with exceptional culinary experiences and comfort for travelers, the in-room coffee experience had to be a quality contender to meet the expectations of The Emily Hotel's guests. Payerli also underscores the strategic importance of this move, stating, “...I do know that if I want to increase my rates…I need to add value to the rooms and so that’s why I wanted to bring a coffee option into the rooms…” 

A COFFEE EXPERIENCE WORTHY OF THE EMILY

The Emily Hotel caters primarily to a distinctive blend of professional individual travelers and corporate groups, drawn to the bustling hub of the West Loop and Fulton Market area. With Google and other prominent offices in close proximity, the hotel's clientele is accustomed to a high-paced lifestyle, often involving quick travel and intense work commitments. As a result, they typically stay for an average of two nights, making it crucial for The Emily Hotel to create an immediate and lasting impression of luxury – a home away from home, but better.

For these seasoned travelers, convenience and simplicity are paramount. They require an in-room coffee solution that aligns with their fast-paced lifestyle. As Payerli describes, "...they’re seasoned travelers, they probably travel 200+ nights of the year. They just want something they can just roll with…they don’t want to sip coffee while they’re getting ready, they’ve [already] been up since 5 a.m." This vividly captures the essence of the hotel's guests and the importance of providing a seamless and energizing start to their day with a quality in-room coffee experience. 

The call for simplicity is what initially drew The Emily Hotel to consider Steeped for their in-room coffee option, “It's literally like a tea bag…I liked that aspect versus putting a $200 machine in the room with multiple buttons that people are trying to figure out, and then they break it, and then they have to calibrate it… it's just a little much." 

"I liked [Steeped]...versus putting a $200 machine in the room with multiple buttons that people are trying to figure out, and then they break it..."

In addition to convenience, Steeped delivered on the promise of incomparable taste, a crucial component of The Emily Hotel's luxury brand. The rich and flavorful brew created with Steeped’s premium beans resonated with the palates of their guests, reinforcing the hotel's reputation for culinary excellence.

Moreover, sustainability is a fundamental aspect of The Emily Hotel's identity, and Payerli understands that every little effort made on their part contributes to a healthier planet. When asked if sustainability was a factor in choosing an in-room coffee provider and what exactly set Steeped apart from the rest, Payeli remarked, “When we found out there wasn’t any plastic pods or anything like that, and they’re biodegradable bags, that was a big deal, you know?” These sentiments reflect the increasing importance that guests place on sustainability in their choices, echoing The Emily Hotel's commitment. As Payeli wisely noted, "Every little bit counts, I think." This recognition of the importance of small actions in the broader context of sustainability echoes the ethos that both The Emily Hotel and Steeped Coffee share.

The inherent convenience of Steeped Brew Bags,  combined with their overall quality and sustainability, made this decision a no-brainer for The Emily Hotel. Steeped was unquestionably the right choice to add in-room value for their guests. 

OVERNIGHT SUCCESS WITH STEEPED

Steeped Coffee's introduction into The Emily Hotel's in-room offerings was a strategic move that perfectly aligned with the hotel's core brand values. When recalling the early days of implementing Steeped in their rooms, Payerli states, “I want to have a conversation with a guest about something that I have, not something I don't have. And I will tell you, the moment we put Steeped in our rooms, all those calls went away. It was like overnight, it was great.”

Since implementing Steeped Coffee as their in-room coffee solution, the Emily Hotel has achieved remarkable success. Roughly 50% of their guests are using Steeped in their rooms, demonstrating the popularity and successful integration of this premium coffee option into their guest experience. The ease of use, exceptional quality, and sustainability align perfectly with the hotel's commitment to luxury and environmental responsibility.

By choosing Steeped, the Emily Hotel has not only met the expectations of their guests but also reinforced their position as a sustainable-focused and guest-centric establishment in the competitive Chicago hotel market. Steeped Coffee has become a key ingredient in creating a memorable and enjoyable stay for the hotel's guests, further solidifying the Emily Hotel's reputation for excellence.

Interested in learning how you can elevate your in-room coffee experience with Steeped? Fill out the form below to learn more.

The question is simple: How can hotels innovate to meet the demands of the eco-conscious traveler?

1. Reducing Energy Consumption

Start with the basics. Efficient energy usage not only reduces the hotel's carbon footprint but can also lead to significant savings. Consider investing in energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and smart thermostats. Solar panels and green roofing can also be worthwhile long-term investments.

2. Waste Management and Reduction

The waste generated by hotels can be substantial. Embracing a robust recycling and composting program is essential. Additionally, partnering with organizations that can repurpose unused toiletries and food can ensure waste is minimized. 

3. Water Conservation

From low-flow faucets and showers to innovative laundry solutions, there's much a hotel can do to reduce its water consumption. Furthermore, educating guests on the importance of water conservation and providing options for them to participate (e.g., choosing not to have towels replaced daily) can make a significant impact.

4. Sourcing Locally

Whether it's the ingredients in your hotel restaurant's dishes or the decor in your rooms, sourcing locally can reduce transportation emissions and support local communities. This also provides an authentic experience for guests who appreciate regional specialties.

5. Steeped Coffee: A Brewed Revolution in Sustainability

Now, let's talk about the morning ritual that so many of our guests cherish: coffee. Traditional single-serve coffee solutions, while convenient, generate tons of waste with their plastic pods and containers. But there's a sustainable alternative that doesn't compromise on quality or convenience: Steeped Coffee.

Steeped Coffee offers gourmet coffee in fully compostable packaging. These single-serve coffee bags require no machines; guests simply brew the coffee directly in their cup, akin to tea. This innovative solution means there are no plastic pods to dispose of, and the packaging goes back to the earth, leaving no trace. It's a seamless way for hotels to reduce waste, while still providing an exceptional in-room coffee experience. For the eco-conscious traveler, a sustainable coffee option like Steeped speaks volumes about the hotel's commitment to the environment.

In conclusion, the era of green travel is not just a trend—it's the future. Guests are actively seeking out accommodations that prioritize sustainability. By implementing the above practices, hotels can position themselves at the forefront of this movement, ensuring they remain top-of-mind for the modern, eco-conscious traveler.

Fill out the form below to learn how Steeped Coffee can help you meet and exceed your sustainability goals.

GUESTS EXPECT MORE: ELEVATING IN-ROOM COFFEE

Recognizing the profound impact of the morning coffee ritual on guest experiences, The Ameswell Hotel was resolute in providing a coffee experience that transcended the ordinary. As Demy points out, "people don’t go to hotels expecting great coffee," underscoring a gap in the guest experience that required attention. In choosing an in-room coffee provider, The Ameswell set out to elevate sub-par in-room coffee to rival that of even in-home coffee experiences. Steeped’s innovative brewing method, which brews specialty coffee as simply as tea, proved to be far superior to pod-based alternatives, and immediately captured the guests’ attention in regards to quality, convenience, and sustainability. Instead of fiddling with an outdated coffee machine, guests just need to add hot water, and an exceptional cup of single-serve specialty coffee is effortlessly within reach.

A CRUCIAL CHALLENGE: FINDING LOCAL AND SUSTAINABLE PARTNERS

Steeped quickly exceeded The Ameswell’s requirements for quality and surpassed their expectations for overall convenience, but the final test of compatibility focused on alignment with The Ameswell's foundational values of supplying guests with locally-based and environmentally sustainable in-room options. As a Santa Cruz-based roaster, Steeped not only fulfilled this requirement but also brought an additional dimension to The Ameswell’s offerings through its diverse array of regional roaster partners. Ultimately, Steeped's unwavering commitment to delivering premium and eco-conscious coffee experiences was the precise answer to the hotel's quest to provide an authentic local experience. 

Their top pillar, and the hardest box to check, involved a meticulous process of selecting partners that aligned with their sustainability values. As Demy highlights, partners “...have to be eco-friendly. Their [packaging] either has to be biodegradable or reusable." This ethos, again, seamlessly aligned with Steeped’s dedication to sustainability. Steeped's innovative packaging is fully compostable, resulting in a closed-loop system that greatly minimizes the environmental impact of making a daily cup of coffee. Every aspect of a Steeped™ Brew Bag, from single portions to minimize waste to the renewable plant-based packaging, leaves a positive footprint, reinforcing the pursuit of environmental responsibility.

INSPIRING CHANGE: BREWING FOR A GREENER FUTURE

The partnership between The Ameswell Hotel and Steeped epitomizes their commitment to quality, convenience, local authenticity, and sustainability. Steeped's fully compostable packaging helps  The Ameswell Hotel on their mission to eliminate plastics and achieve carbon neutrality by 2024, showcasing the potency of purposeful collaborations in reshaping the hospitality landscape. 

In unison, The Ameswell Hotel and Steeped Coffee demonstrate that convenience and sustainability can coexist, inspiring an industry-wide embrace of mindful practices that enrich the guest experience, while minimizing environmental impact.

Interest in learning how Steeped can help you meet your sustainability goals? Contact us today and a dedicated account speciality will reach out.

Let's talk about the color green. Sure, green might trigger thoughts of money, envy, and luck, but at Steeped, we're all about embracing a different shade of green – the one that stands for sustainability and a happy Mother Nature. If you've ever been to our website, ordered Steeped Packs, seen our social posts, or even been near someone sipping on Steeped, you've probably caught our not-so-subtle hints about how green our coffee game is. Well, guess what? The time has come for us to lay out our not-so-secret plan to shake up the single-serve coffee industry entirely.

From our ethical sourcing practices to the meticulous creation of our fully compostable single-serve packaging, we're leaving no coffee bean unturned in our quest to transform this industry and, with it, your expectations of what your daily ritual can do for you and future generations.

Behind the Beans

It all starts with the beans. Our commitment to ethical sourcing ensures that every coffee bean in your cup has been grown with respect for both the environment and the farmers who nurture them. It's coffee that tastes and feels good. One of our partners is a family-owned farm in Guatemala's coveted Huehuetenango region, one of the world's most sought-after coffee-growing areas. This family-owned farm takes great care of every coffee cherry, from the moment it ripens on the branch to the hand-picking process. In true Steeped spirit, this farm actively participates in programs that empower local communities, promote environmental conservation, and enhance the region's overall well-being. Your beans are loved even before they reach your mug!

(Learn more about Flor del Café farm here)

Single-Serve, Zero Waste

One of the best aspects of single-serve coffee is its ability to brew just the right amount, minimizing any waste that comes along with your morning ritual. Since each bag is pre-portioned for an 8-ounce cup, you can kiss those bleary-eyed, pre-coffee measurements goodbye. But there's more to it than just the coffee quantity! All Steeped Bags are crafted using our Full Immersion brewing method, which means your Steeped Bag works magic on your coffee's flavor when paired with a mere 8 ounces of water.

While other methods might shoot water through coffee contained in pods, treating it like a tool, Steeped Bags do things differently. They meticulously extract every last bit of flavor from the coffee grounds, viewing water as an essential ingredient in your coffee, not just a means to an end.

Packaging for the Planet

Now, for the pièce de résistance – our fully compostable packaging. While single-serve coffee often gets a bad rap for its environmental impact, our packaging is crafted from plant-based renewable materials, all certified as commercially compostable. No staples, glue, or harmful chemicals lurk within our packaging. From the outer box to the inner bag, it's all part of Steeped’s eco-friendly package. Your cup of coffee just became the biggest win-win: your coffee stays fresh and delicious, while Mother Nature smiles a little brighter.

Your Coffee, Your Impact

It's not just about us; it's about you, too. Every cup of Steeped you enjoy is a vote for sustainability. It's a choice that says, "I'm part of the solution." With each sip, you're helping us pave the way for a future where coffee and sustainability go hand in hand, where green is not just a color but a way of life.

So, if you're ready to join the brew-volution, one that's all about making a tangible impact, one cup at a time, then Steeped is your new partner in crime. Grab your favorite mug and let's raise it high – to a greener, more delicious future! 

Learn More

Interested in learning about how Steeped can help you meet your sustainability goals? Fill out the form below and we'll be in touch!

Welcome to Steeped University, a special place where we unveil our (not-so) top-secret Steeped tips and tricks, while redefining ultra-premium coffee, one sip at a time. Prepare yourself for a mind-bending journey into the world of Steeped, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and that mundane cup of pod coffee becomes a moment of pure Steeped bliss. Get ready to unlock the mysteries behind our unparalleled brews.

Let's dive right into the heart of the matter: Steeped’s Brewing Method. At its core, it's brilliantly simple—just add water. But what unfolds within the walls of your mug is a complex dance between science and innovation, thanks to Steeped’s full-immersion brewing technique. This approach allows the coffee to reach its full potential while immersed in the water, resulting in maximum flavor extraction that will awaken your taste buds like never before.

At Steeped, we believe that the quality of the cup is paramount, and that's why our full-immersion brewing method takes center stage. From the careful selection of our beans to the artistry of our brewing method, each step is a celebration of flavor. Unlike wasteful pods, Steeped’s full-immersion filter allows for maximum extraction, ensuring that each sip reveals the depth and complexity that our meticulously curated beans offer. It's a coffee experience unlike any other.

POUR

Begin your journey by placing your favorite Steeped roast into a fresh mug and pouring a small amount of hot water over the top, allowing the water to gently saturate the bag. This intentional coating process wakes the beans and prepares them for an exceptional brew, ensuring that every sip of coffee is infused with flavor.

💡Hot tip: The temperature of your water matters! Seeking coffee nirvana? Aim for approximately 205 degrees Fahrenheit, about 30 seconds off the boil. This water temperature is the sweet spot that achieves the perfect balance, extracting the rich flavors of the coffee while keeping any unwanted bitterness at bay.

DUNK

Once the bag is fully immersed, it's time to test your dunking skills! Grab your brew by the string and gently start a soft bouncing motion, making sure not to splash yourself with the hot water. Dunk your Steeped bag for 15 to 30 seconds, allowing it to develop a beautiful crema on the surface of your mug! This step enhances the concentration of flavors as the subtle motion of the water through and around the bag leaves you with a brew that truly sings.

💡Pro tip: The longer you dunk, the stronger and bolder your coffee becomes, with flavors that pack a punch. So, if you're craving a stronger kick, don't be shy - extend that dunking time!

STEEP

Now, here comes the hardest part - the waiting game! It's time to flex those patience muscles and let Steeped’s full-immersion filter work its magic as your brew takes a 5+ minute steep. Trust us, it's worth the wait! This crucial step allows the flavors to mingle and dance, creating a cup of coffee that's bursting with flavor. This is the moment when the flavors jump into action, working together to create a cup of coffee with unparalleled flavor. Savor the aromas and get ready to take your Steeped moment!

💡Fun Fact: No need to stress about leaving your Steeped bag in for longer than 5 minutes! Unlike tea, these magical bags don't turn bitter as time passes! They actually get better, like a fine wine aging gracefully. So go ahead, embrace the freedom of time and allow those flavors to reach their peak perfection.

And just like that, your ultimate cup of coffee is now ready to wow you! At Steeped, our commitment to excellence resonates through every bean and in every carefully crafted cup. Embrace the Steeped journey and let each sip transport you to a world of pure caffeinated bliss. 

Interested in learning more about how Steeped's Full Immersion Brewing Method can elevate your in-room coffee game? Fill out the form below.

In the hospitality industry, there's an undeniable trend toward delivering authentic experiences that not only cater to guests' comfort but also resonate with their values. Today, we're shining the spotlight on a unique partnership that promises to elevate the in-room coffee experience while making a tangible difference in the world.

Introducing BLK & Bold's specialty coffees, brewed to perfection through Steeped's innovative method, set to redefine what hotel guests expect from their morning brew.

BLK & Bold: A Legacy in Every Cup

Steeped Coffee is thrilled to collaborate with BLK & Bold, a specialty roasting venture conceived by lifelong friends, Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson. Their story isn't just about coffee. It's about community, mentorship, and positive change.

Hailing from Gary, Indiana—a hardworking city near Chicago—Pernell and Rod's bond was forged in childhood sports, after-school programs, and shared moments at the local Boys & Girls Club. Guided by influential role models, both dreamed of one day providing similar support and inspiration to others.

Years later, despite achieving individual career successes—Rod in fundraising and Pernell in sales—the duo felt a shared restlessness, a yearning to contribute more. And from this collective vision, BLK & Bold was born: a coffee roasting company that intertwined superior taste with a heartfelt mission.

From its humble beginnings in Pernell's garage, BLK & Bold has grown exponentially, transitioning to a sprawling 20,000-square-foot facility in Des Moines, Iowa. As the country's largest Black-owned, nationally-distributed coffee brand, BLK & Bold brews more than just coffee—it brews change, channeling 5% of profits to uplift underserved youth, echoing the founders' childhood experiences.

BLK & Bold x Steeped Coffee: A Match Brewed in Hospitality Heaven

Aligning with Steeped Coffee, a fellow B-Corp with similar values of purpose over profits, amplifies the impact both companies can make. The synergy promises not only to enchant hotel guests with a gourmet coffee experience but also to leave a lasting positive impression through their commitment to social and environmental betterment.

BLK & Bold's Co-Founder and CEO, Pernell Cezar, encapsulates the partnership's spirit: “With Steeped, we can extend BLK & Bold's rich flavors to more individuals nationwide, augmenting support to our nonprofit allies and simultaneously diminishing our ecological footprint.”

For hoteliers and hospitality professionals, offering BLK & Bold's Steeped Packs is more than just an amenity—it's an embodiment of a modern, conscious, and premium guest experience.

Discover the transformative potential of BLK & Bold Single-Serve Steeped Packs for your establishment.

Here, we spotlight amenities that are consistently top-rated by guests and delve into how they can genuinely elevate the hotel experience:

• High-Speed Wi-Fi: In our interconnected world, consistent and fast Wi-Fi is not just an amenity—it's an expectation. Whether for business, streaming entertainment, or keeping in touch, seamless connectivity is key. 

• Free Parking: Nothing beats the convenience of hassle-free parking, especially in busy urban centers. Offering complimentary parking can be a significant stress-reliever for guests, adding to a positive experience.

• Complimentary Breakfast: A delicious, hearty breakfast can set the tone for the entire day. Providing guests with a complimentary breakfast, whether it's a continental spread or more elaborate buffet, is always a winning move.

• Personalized Service: The magic often lies in the details. Whether it's knowing a guest's preferred room temperature or offering bespoke recommendations, personalized touches can transform a stay from just fine to unforgettable.

• Wellness Amenities: A commitment to health and wellness is a trend that's here to stay. Offering amenities such as modern fitness centers, in-room yoga mats, or even guided meditation sessions can keep guests feeling their best, even on-the-go.

• In-Room Coffee: In-room coffee is one of the most sought in-room amenities, yet, oftentimes, traditional coffee machines fail to provide the freshness and quality guests desire. This is where Steeped Coffee shines. This innovative coffee solution provides individually wrapped, single-serve coffee brew bags. Guests can enjoy a cup by simply brewing gourmet coffee directly in their mug with a familiar brewing method, akin to brewing tea. No machines required, just a simple brew for an exceptional cup coffee.

• Local Experiences: Beyond just coffee, think of how your hotel can immerse guests in the local culture. Curated city guides, local snacks in the minibar, or partnerships with neighborhood tour providers can offer guests an authentic taste of their travel destination. Steeped not only offers its own specialty coffee, but partners with local roasters who use our proprietary brew method so hotels can offer guests a unique local coffee experience right in their room.

• Eco-friendly Initiatives: Today's traveler is eco-conscious, seeking out sustainable practices in their journeys. From refillable toiletry stations to green room services, sustainability can truly set your hotel apart. Here, Steeped Coffee again steps up, offering a triple win for hotels: delicious coffee, a local experience, and eco-friendly initiative. Steeped’s brew bags are fully compostable, aligning with guests' desires for sustainable offerings and helping hotels reduce their environmental footprint.

In conclusion, it's not always about grand overtures or luxury extravagances. Often, it's the small, thoughtful amenities that leave a lasting mark on guests. By emphasizing these key aspects, hotels can ensure that their guests not only return but also become enthusiastic ambassadors for the brand. In the world of hospitality, the extraordinary is often hidden in the ordinary.

Learn more about how Steeped Coffee can help you elevate your in-room experience.

The hospitality industry is all about creating unforgettable experiences, and as a premium hotel, every detail matters. One of those details is the coffee experience you provide in-room for your guests. With the Steeped Brewing Method, you can elevate your offerings, align with your commitment to sustainability, and provide ultimate convenience to your guests.

A Superior Coffee Experience

Steeped Coffee isn't just about serving coffee; it's about offering an experience. The method is designed to extract the rich flavors of specialty coffee, ensuring a full-bodied, deeply satisfying cup every time.

Delightful Convenience for Guests

Eliminate the need for clunky coffee machines or complicated brewing methods. With Steeped Coffee, guests can brew premium coffee with nothing more than hot water. It's a personal brewing masterclass with the simplicity of steeping tea.

Sustainability at the Forefront

In an era where sustainability is of paramount importance, Steeped Coffee excels with its compostable packaging. It’s a detail that won't go unnoticed by your environmentally aware guests, further enhancing your reputation as a conscious brand.

Perfecting Your In-Room Amenities

In the competitive landscape of the hospitality industry, it's the little things that set you apart. Steeped Coffee could be the detail that elevates your in-room amenities, offering a unique coffee brewing method, superior taste, simple convenience, and sustainable approach.

Learn More

If you're ready to explore how Steeped Coffee could enhance your guests' experience and reflect positively on your brand, our team of Partner Specialists is here to assist.

Fill out the contact form below to schedule a call with our specialists and learn more about offering the best in-room coffee experience with Steeped Coffee. Stand out in the hospitality industry by offering more than just a stay; offer an unforgettable coffee experience.