Francesco’s, 208 SW 2nd Street
Everyone in town knows Francesco’s serves up amazing, home-made gelato—but it’s also a great coffee place in its own right. Electrical outlets abound for the laptop-bringer, and a less-trafficked upstairs balcony provides a refuge from the gelato-happy crowds. Most drinks come with a chocolate-covered coffee bean or two for good measure. For a real treat, try their affogato, an espresso poured over gelato.
Interzone, 1563 Northwest Monroe Avenue
For late-night studying near campus head to Interzone—this local café is open until midnght. Some of the larger tables will easily accommodate study groups. Enjoy organic (and often vegan) breakfast and lunch foods, and some seriously delicious coffees. Interzone is relatively small, and the atmosphere is quiet, cozy, and very friendly. You’ll find wifi and outlets, not to mention some stunning mural art.
New Morning Bakery, 219 SW 2nd Street
If you have a lot of studying to do, head to New Morning Bakery—get comfy with their wide tables, excellent wifi, ample seating, and delicious coffee (refills are only 50 cents). Outlets are available near some tables closest to the street, and all of the staff here is super friendly. While lunch crowds here can get a bit noisy, you won’t have to deal with blaring music. And you can easily recharge with their delectable display of fresh, baked-in-house treats, from lasagna and salads to cakes and cinnamon rolls.
The Monroe Street Beanery, 2541 NW Monroe Avenue
For close-to-campus coffee options, don’t miss the Beanery on Monroe Street. Grab lunch, a newspaper, and a coffee—their unique espresso is hand-pulled! While this café is popular, it’s also quite cozy, and you’ll usually find an open table. You won’t find many outlets for your laptop, but otherwise it’s a nice quiet place to get your work done, and their wifi is super-reliable.
The 2nd Street Beanery, 500 SW 2nd Street
The 2nd Street Beanery is perhaps the most social coffee place in town. The large tables foster discussions even among strangers, and bands play live on Saturday nights. Cozy chairs, wifi, and a wide selection of caffeinated drinks make it a welcoming place to study or spend time on your laptop—provided there aren’t too many other people plugged into the available working outlets. As for the drinks, nothing beats a Beanery borgia with its whipped cream and signature curl of orange peel.
By Jen Matteis and Genevieve Weber
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