Costa has finally jumped on the matcha hype train.
It’s been a long time coming, but after customers have been begging the popular coffee shop chain to start serving what is, undoubtably, the drink of the moment, Costa has finally listened to what the people want and has announced this week that its new winter menu features a range of matcha latte drinks, both hot and cold.
Christmas is over now, and it’s time for Costa’s festive menu to go back into hibernation for another year, which is why this new winter menu is designed to ’embrace fresh rituals’, comforting flavours, and a moment to reset.
Launching today (8 January), the winter menu will introduce both a selection of new and returning favourites.
Costa has finally jumped on the matcha hype train with a trio of new drinks / Credit: Costa
First up, we have the handcrafted matcha trio, of course, including a Hot Matcha Latte and an Iced Matcha Latte, both fully customisable with your choice of milk alternatives and syrups, or for a more refreshing twist, the Strawberry Coconut Iced Matcha Latte blends creamy coconut with sweet strawberry sauce for an uplifting sip.
The Spanish Latte also returns by popular demand, as does a new Spanish Caramelo Latte, which is a velvety caramel twist on the much-loved original.
On the food front, January’s food menu introduces some ‘bold tastes’ and ‘vibrant’ vegan options, including the new plant-based Onion Bhaji Wrap, packed with spice and flavour, or the new Tomato & Basil Soup for a proper cosy companion.
Morning cravings are covered too, with the new Tomato & Mature Cheddar Croissant, or the new All-Day Breakfast Toastie.
Costa has launched its winter menu for the new year / Credit: Costa
On the sweet side, there’s a couple of returning fan-favourites in the mix – with the Banana & Chocolate Muffin, the Orange & Raspberry Victoria Sponge, and the Berry Crumble Slice, each crafted to elevate that afternoon coffee break.
Nishant Bhatia, Global Food and Beverage Innovation Director at Costa Coffee, said the new January winter menu is about ‘finding small moments of comfort and enjoyment’, adding: “Especially our new matcha range”.
“Costa matcha is designed to be a feel-good ritual, whether you’re discovering matcha for the first time or already love its smooth flavour,” they concluded.
Costa’s January menu launches on Thursday 8 January 2026 in all Costa stores across the UK and Ireland.
Aldi is in the process of adding to its eclectic team of taste testers, and this time, chicken nuggets are in the hot seat.
The budget supermarket is no stranger to calling on members of the public to try out new products before they get released in store, whether it be recruiting someone to sample all of its different wines, crisps, beers, or even chocolate Easter eggs, but this is the first time Aldi will be hiring an official Chicken Nugget Taster.
One lucky shopper will get the chance to take on their ‘dream job’, receiving a variety of Aldi nuggets for free in exchange for feedback.
That’s right, nugget connoisseurs will receive a selection of Aldi’s best-selling nuggets to sample for free – including the popular Share the Love ‘Love Nuggets’ with Date Ketchup, which are set to return to stores once again from 10 February as part of the Valentine’s range.
Not only that, but the successful applicant will also receive a selection of the supermarket’s classics and well as different takes on the nugget to try out.
Aldi is hiring an official chicken nugget taster to send free nuggets to / Credit: Aldi Corporate
And what’s in it for Aldi? All the supermarket is asking in return is a set of reviews rating the nuggets on their taste, texture, and the crispiness of their coating, to help guide the Buying Team on what products to stock in the future.
“The nation’s love for chicken nuggets is undeniable and we’re seeing a huge appetite for new and exciting flavours,” explained Julie Ashfield, who is the Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK.
“Our shoppers are our most important critics, so launching the role of an official Nugget Taster is the perfect way to ensure our products deliver the quality, taste, and price they deserve.”
Fancy it then? To be in with a chance of landing this tasty job, all you need to do is send a video application stating your name, age, and social media handles, and then say why you love chicken nuggets so much and why you should become Aldi’s first-ever Nugget Taster.
Entries are now open, and you have until 11:59pm on 4 February to apply by emailing NuggetTaster@aldi.co.uk.
Featured Image – Broken Sphere (via Wikimedia Commons)
Food & Drink
Historic family-run Leeds restaurant that’s been open for half a century is forced to close
Clementine Hall
Beloved Leeds restaurant Salvo's has closed suddenly due to 'unexpected dispute' with landlord.
Salvo's over on Otley Road in Headingley is a real Leeds institution.
Having first opened in 1976, it has been serving generations of families for fifty years with its authentic Italian menu.
The much loved restaurant announced the heartbreaking news to their social media today stating that the unexpected closure is down to an 'unexpected dispute' with their landlord.
The post read: "To our dearest customers, friends, and supporters,
"It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we must share some devastating news. Due to an unexpected dispute with our landlord, we have been forced to close our doors effective immediately.
"This morning, the landlord changed the locks and denied our team access to the premises. This means we are, with immediate effect, unable to honor any existing bookings, provide table service, or welcome you for the dining experience we love to create.
"We want to be unequivocally clear: We have always met our obligations, including rent and all bills. Our dedicated team has worked tirelessly, not just to serve exceptional food, but to build a community within our walls. Through the immense challenges of the hospitality economy, we fought to stay afloat, committed to our staff, our suppliers, and most of all, to you.
"Our hope now is to resolve this matter as quickly as possible. We remain committed to our dream and to serving you again."
The post continued: "From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your incredible support, your laughter that filled our dining room, and your loyalty. It has been our greatest honor to serve you.
"We will update you here as soon as we have more information. Please keep our team in your thoughts."
Emily Sergeant -
12th January 2026 
