Everyone has their go-to study space, whether it’s the third floor cubicles at Olin Library, Whispers, or the newest hot spot, Bauer Hall. While these are all great during the week, it’s hard to motivate yourself to head to main campus on the weekends. Heading off campus to do work is the perfect opportunity to explore a new area or even sample some new food. Check out these ideal study spots where you will not only get in the zone, but will do so with a killer cup of coffee and/or a great meal.
1. Kaldi’s Coffee (Demun and Carondelet): These two locations are very different, but are both great for studying. If you’re 100% going to need outlets, the Clayton Kaldi’s, located in Carondelet Plaza, is for you. It’s much larger and the walls are practically covered in outlets, whereas the Demun Ave. location has more of an edgy vibe with less seats and fewer places to plug in. Kaldi’s has recently changed both menus to be very similar, however, the Demun location is all vegetarian. I highly recommend the toasted black bean burrito, which I daydream about at least twice a day.
Yelp.com
2. Coffee Cartel (Maryland Plaza): I’m gonna start off with a bang and tell you that Coffee Cartel is open 24/7. That’s right, 24/7. Located just a short drive from campus in the Central West End, you can enjoy delicious coffee and pastries at this local spot while also getting your work done. It’s typically pretty quiet, and there is lots of seating. Did I mention they also have ice cream? Jackpot.
Coffeeandwifi.com
3. Starbucks (N. Central Avenue): Rumor has it this Starbucks used to be a McDonalds, so yeah, it’s huge. You will never fail to find a seat in this joint, I promise you. The outlet supply is plentiful and there are two long tables that are perfect for working with friends. N. Central Ave. is also lined with food options, so you can pick up Chipotle or Picklemans when you get hungry. They surprisingly don’t care if you bring outside food in. Parallel parking along the street and in the lot just down the road is all free on weekends. Just a warning: it’s freezing in there. Be sure to bring a sweatshirt!
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4. Kayak’s Coffee (N. Skinker Blvd): Ok, I know this one is obvious but it’s too good to pass up. It’s walkable from campus and has great food, coffee, and lots of space to study. It’s almost always crowded, but you can usually snag a spot at one of the counters facing the windows. Kayak’s is also perfect for those lengthy breaks between classes when you don’t want to go home or have another meal at the DUC.
Foodudcated.com
5. Meshuggah Cafe (Delmar Loop): This is another great option for people who want somewhere that is walking distance from campus. With great coffee and a full menu that changes from AM to PM (I’m talking omelettes and pulled pork sandwiches), you could spend the day here nomming and enjoying the mellow atmosphere. This is the ideal environment for some intense reading, or reading for pleasure if you’re taking the day off!
Archcityhomes.com
6. St. Louis Bread Company (Clayton Road): If you haven’t checked out the new St. Louis Bread Co. by the intersection of Clayton and Big Bend, you must do so immediately. It’s definitely the nicest one I’ve ever been in, featuring TV screens by the take-out section to let you know your order is ready. With a plethora of seating options (lots of booths) and a new-and-improved menu, you can brunch, lunch, and work until your hands fall off.
40southnews.com