By: Tiffany Cullen
A must for every first-year college student is coffee, and knowing where the coffee shops are and what they offer. Starbucks is great when you’re feeling very trendy and chic, but for those times when you just want to support the local business community, there are several good places to choose from. Out of the local shops, only three hold the top spots as being great for their coffee, atmosphere and price.
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Number three on the list is Metro Coffee House located at 402 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. The coffee is decent and it’s one of the few places that serve bubble tea. For those not yet introduced to bubble tea, the drink itself consists of your choice of tea and flavor with gelatin tapioca balls at the bottom. It’s either love or hate on first sip. The interior of Metro is very relaxed. It serves as a great place to meet friends to hang out and play one of their many board games. They have a variety of muffins, cookies and sandwiches on the menu. Vegans and vegetarians will not feel left out with their available menu selections. Choose a corner with a comfortable couch, or if you are into a serious study mode, pick one of the out-of-the-way tables. The awesome thing about Metro is they take SCAD cards and have wireless internet access.
Number two on the list is the Sentient Bean located at 13 E. Park Ave. The coffee is great and there are several alternatives for the health conscious. “The Bean,” as it’s commonly referred to by regulars, is the hot spot at the end of Forsyth Park. If you are a vegan or vegetarian, you will find many great choices on their sandwich, salad and baked goods menus. They also have paninis, quiche and frittatas. Whether you are by yourself or with a group of ten, there is always an area to accommodate everyone. On beautiful days, grab a seat out front or on the back patio. The atmosphere of “the Bean” is very laid back. This indie-style coffeehouse holds underground alternative music shows and hosts an annual Psychotronic Film Festival. Curl up with a magazine or newspaper on one of the relaxing couches. Or you can pick a table and surf the net with their free wireless internet service. Unfortunately, they do not take SCAD Cards or credit cards, but they do have a cash machine on site if needed.
The number one pick and most favored coffee house for college students is the Gallery Espresso located at 234 Bull St. The cozy, artsy environment of Gallery welcomes people of all ages. The quirky staff members are always ready to help and make suggestions for first timers not sure of what to order. This sophisticated coffee house hosts local artists with annual art show openings. An eclectic variety of music helps create an inspired atmosphere great for doing homework or just socializing with friends and locals. Try one of their fantastic desserts or order the signature cheese board as you sit in one of their mix-matched antique chairs or sofas. Gallery is also known for having the best hot chocolate in town. Get one for yourself to find out.
Savannah Coffee House Café at 7 E. Congress St. and Express Café & Bakery at 39 Barnard St. get honorable mentions for good coffee drinks and a wide selection of bakery items.
One of these coffee houses is sure to become your favorite place to get caffeinated, hang out with friends or find that much needed solace to finish homework.
