Anyone can expect to see several coffee shops on the average college campus, but Ohio University is different. While some students are loyal to Starbucks served at Front Room or Donkey Coffee down on Washington Street, it’s easy to tell that Court Street Coffee is a favorite in Athens. In fact, it’s rare to walk somewhere without spotting the trademark red (or clear) Crimson Cup in the hands of a passerby on any given day. So, what makes this place as popular as it is? Well, you’d be surprised.
According to their website, Court Street Coffee was originally a clothing store, called Baron Men’s Shop. Debby Fulks, the owner and operator of Court Street Coffee, first opened the store in October of 2009; to say it has since become a favorite of OU students and Athens residents alike would be an understatement. What’s not to love about the tranquil atmosphere, menu of endless creations and beautiful local art featured there? Well, maybe the number of caffeine-cravers at the start of the day.
“It gets really, really busy and hectic in the morning,” says barista Grant Smith.
Otherwise, he thinks the best part about working there has to be his co-workers because all of them are close, and they even hang out together.
If you’re looking for something to nibble on, look no further than their variety of bagels, scones, and other baked goods.
The scones and cookies come locally from Stone Hearth Bakery; Smith points out that the most popular scones are probably the blackberry, raspberry and pumpkin ones (Side note, he’s not kidding about how divine the raspberry scone is—I approve!).
Every week, the workers brainstorm a new drink special to feature on their menu, and this week is the Apple Pie Latte. However, Smith says that their most popular drink is by far the Court Street Mocha, which is made with white chocolate and caramel. Like several of their other drinks, it can be served hot, over ice or frozen.
As for every day, Court Street Coffee uses posters to advertise certain drinks not on the menu. A Frozen Samoa, Mayan Mocha, and Frozen Banana Mocha pictured along the counter above are all fair game.
Not into the fancy drinks? I like the $1 refills on brewed coffee that are offered only here and nowhere else in Athens. Just hand your barista your travel mug or pretty much any other cup and they will fill it with hot coffee for a buck. No other coffee shop around here can match that deal! If you’re a “brew-it-yourself” kind of girl (or guy), I highly suggest their packaged Cookie Doodle flavored coffee as well.
Next time you’re about to stop somewhere for a quick cup of java or are looking for a cozy study spot, give this little Athens treasure a try!
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