Webthe meaning of wake up and smell the coffee/roses is to realize the truth about one's situation : To become aware of what is really happening. Whether you prefer strong. Webthe phrase “wake up and smell the coffee” grabs your attention with its vivid call to action. It’s more than just a reminder to enjoy a hot cup in the morning. Webyou can’t wake up and smell the coffee at starbucks. That’s the lament of howard schultz, the founder and chairman of the ubiquitous java chain, in an internal. Released on 22 october. Webwake up and smell the coffee. Add to word list. Used to tell someone that they are wrong about a particular situation and must realize what is really happening. Webwake up and smell the coffee. If you say that someone should wake up and smell the coffee, you mean they must start to be more realistic and aware of what is happening.