Part of what makes SLO the perfect little town it is are the numerous coffee shops that fill the area. These local and incredibly unique coffee shops add character and charisma to the town, as well as make for great study spots for when the library gets too crowded. Check out a few of our favorites!
Scout Coffee Co.
Scout is by far one of best. Its open, airy space creates a stress-free environment that makes it the perfect place to study or grab a cup of coffee with a friend. Aside from its delicious coffee and tea beverages, Scout has incredible mason-jar milkshakes that are to die for. Located downtown on Garden Street, Scout is easy get to whether you have a car or not. Although this pleasure is nice, it also means that Scout can get very busy, especially on weekends. There isn’t a lot of seating inside, so make sure to get there pretty early if you want to guarantee yourself a table.
Kreuzberg Coffee Co.
Located right on Higuera Street, Kreuzberg is one of the biggest coffee shops around SLO. It has both indoor and outdoor seating and sells everything from coffee and tea to beer and sandwiches. It has a funky and hipster personality filled with mismatched chairs and artwork, making it one of SLO’s classic restaurants. Although it can get a bit loud at night, Kreuzberg is a great place to study and hang out at during the day.
Linnaea’s Café
A hidden little gem on Garden Street, Linnaea’s can sometimes be hard to notice. Its front room is small and simple, making it seem like a plain coffee shop. However in the back, there’s a door that leads to a beautiful outdoor courtyard filled with plants and greenery. Whether you’re studying for midterms or just want a quiet place to escape to, Linnaea’s has the tranquility you need.
Nautical Bean Coffee House
Although it lies a little farther away from campus on Madonna Road, Nautical Bean has a warm and home-like feel to it that makes it well worth the distance. It’s full of character with various pieces of vintage-looking artwork scattering the walls and even a collection of old skateboards hanging up. Nautical Bean has an elaborate menu with various coffees and foods to choose from (try the mint chip mocha!) as well as plenty of tables and couches for studying.
Blackhorse Espresso and Bakery
With four different locations in SLO, Blackhorse has proved to be a favorite. It’s known for its delicious Blackhorse foam that comes on its coffee beverages and there are always a variety of pastries to indulge in. With plenty of seating inside it and a generally quiet atmosphere, it makes for a popular study spot for students.
Steynberg Gallery
Functioning as both a coffee house and art gallery at the corner of Monterey and California, Steynberg is open, spacious, and minimalistic in appearance. There are simple art pieces hanging on each wall and a few tables scattered throughout the shop, creating a relaxing atmosphere perfect for studying. There is also a small stage on one side of the room that is used occasionally for live music, poetry readings, and art lessons. You can check their website for upcoming events to attend! Live music and a latte, what more can you ask for?