Review: Best places to get coffee on campus 

As you head to your daily classes, inhaling the crisp autumn air, the thought of a steaming cup of coffee might cross your mind. With time, money, and your academic needs in mind, finding the right spot for a caffeine fix is essential. Outside of ISUB locations like Einstein Bagels and Soda Spout, several places on campus cater to your caffeine cravings. Whether you’re fighting late-night cramming exhaustion, yawning in your 8 a.m. lecture, or simply looking to enjoy a latte on a fall day, here are a few places to check out. 

Thomas Hammer Coffee 

Upon entering the campus bookstore, you’ll be greeted by the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee courtesy of Thomas Hammer. Known for its creative menu, Thomas Hammer offers a variety of unique drinks for adventurous customers. The most popular item, the “caramanilla,” blends espresso with milk, caramel and vanilla bean. For those feeling bold, there are options featuring jalapeno, lavender and orange. 

Beyond coffee, the shop offers teas, energy drinks, smoothies and a selection of breakfast items, baked goods and sandwiches. While the variety is impressive, some may find the coffee’s bitter aftertaste off-putting. The price may also be a drawback for students, with drinks ranging from $4 to $7, roughly $2 more than other campus options. For those particular about flavor, it may be worth the splurge, but for others, it might leave something to be desired. Thomas Hammer earns a 6/10 rating for its offerings. 

One World Café (Jansen Engineering Building) 

Tucked inside the Jansen Engineering Building, a satellite of the popular One World Café offers a convenient stop for students with busy schedules. Though it’s centrally located, the café’s limited hours of10 a.m. to 2 p.m. are a drawback for some. Despite this, the space’s vibrant yellow walls, calming music and abundance of natural light make it a pleasant environment for studying or taking a break. 

According to staff, the café’s atmosphere shifts from “productive and bustling” to “relaxed” throughout the day, providing a flexible study space. The drinks, like their caramel vanilla latte, strike a perfect balance of sweet and bitter. With reasonable prices, the campus One World Café is a reliable option, earning a solid 7/10. 

Monica’s Coffee Bar 

For an all-around standout spot, Monica’s Coffee Bar, located next to Saint Augustine’s Catholic Center, is a must-visit. With a 20% student discount and hours from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monica’s caters well to the student lifestyle. The large tables and quiet atmosphere, free from external noise, make it an ideal place to study or chat with friends. 

The mocha, a popular choice according to staff, exemplifies the shop’s balance of rich coffee flavor and sweetness. Alongside coffee, Monica’s offers Lotus drinks, snacks, matcha and tea. While the café’s religious connection is evident in its décor, the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere ensure all patrons feel comfortable. For affordability, quality and ambiance, Monica’s Coffee Bar earns 8.5/10. 

Next time you’re in need of a coffee break, try these spots and decide which one best fits your taste and budget. 

Macy Gilbert can be reached at [email protected]