I wouldn’t consider myself anywhere near a foodie, but after living in Boston for a month, I’ve found a few places on and near campus that my coffee-hating self enjoys when I’m looking for something to drink. Some days I’m craving caffeine, and others I’m not, so I have compiled a list of a few of my most visited spots.
- Tatte
-
If you’re in Boston and haven’t visited Tatte yet, you’re missing out. While there are multiple locations close to campus, my most visited is Beacon Street. Their online order and pick up is very convenient, and there are so many options available. In addition to their extensive coffee menu (which is amazing, according to my coffee-loving roommate), they also have many non-coffee options. My personal favorite is their iced chai latte, and I can say, hands down, that it is probably the best chai I’ve had. Also of note are the multiple tea options, both hot and iced, and house-made Rhubarb Basil Mint Soda and Sparkling Rhubarb Matcha Lemonade. Their prices are reasonable, and their service is quick and easy. Overall, I would give Tatte a 10/10, and I will definitely be visiting often.
- Playa Bowls
-
When it comes to smoothies, I’m a big fan. During quarantine, I would make a smoothie (or smoothie bowl) nearly every day. Coming from Minnesota, I had never had Playa Bowls before, but I can assure you that they live up to the hype. Whether you’re a fan of fruity or indulgent, there are so many options to choose from (making it very difficult to choose since I’m indecisive). Especially since we’re not allowed to have appliances in the dorms, specifically a blender, Playa Bowls smoothies have been a go-to for me, despite the long walk. After you decide what you want to order from their massive menu, the service is quick, and the staff is very nice and helpful. Plus, the app allows you to earn rewards for discounts off future orders, and I have collected quite a few points so far. I would give Playa Bowls a 9/10, simply because the location is so far away. Please BU, can we have a Playa Bowls on campus?
- Basho
-
A few years ago, I discovered bubble tea, and it quickly became a favorite of mine. After finding Basho on campus, I was very excited. While they don’t have as many flavor options as I would like, the selection is ample, and the flavors are great. If you’re a fan of bubble tea, I can guarantee you will find a new favorite to order at Basho. While they aren’t drinks, their sushi wraps are really delicious as well. Now with the Grubhub app, it is very easy to order, and I find my dining points depleting quickly with the convenience of the location and the app. I would tie Basho with Playa Bowls, also giving it a 9/10.
- Starbucks
-
I feel like putting Starbucks on this list is somewhat cheating, but it’s here because it’s a staple. While Starbucks is best known for its coffee, it continues to expand its non-coffee range, and I have been able to find many more options as of recent. While I’m still disappointed they haven’t brought back the Orange Valencia Refresher, I have to admit that I’m a fan of the new Star Drink and the Iced Guava Passion Fruit drink, which are respectively caffeinated and non-caffeinated. As always, their chai tea lattes are a staple, and recently I tried it with the Dark Cocoa Almondmilk Foam, which was amazing, and I will be ordering again. Since there are so many locations on campus, it is very easy to end up at Starbucks when I’m looking for something to drink. My rating is an 8/10 since they have so many options, but in my opinion, the drinks are overly sugary most of the time.
- Pavement
-
The first “coffee shop” I saw when I arrived on campus was Pavement. Given that my roommate loves coffee, I have visited multiple times. However, their selection for non-coffee people is more lacking than other places I’ve visited. My go-to order when I try somewhere new is a chai tea latte, and I was unfortunately disappointed with Pavement’s version. If I’m in a pinch and need some caffeine, I will stop at Pavement, but for me, as a coffee hater, it’s not my first choice. However, their bagel sandwiches are great, and I’ve heard the coffee is fantastic, so if you’re looking for that, then I would suggest Pavement. But, for my non-coffee friends out there, it’s not at the top of my list; therefore, my rating is a 7/10.
Since I’ve only been here a month, my list is limited. However, I’m impressed with the variety I can find around the city, and I can’t wait to continue to explore and find more options around Boston for more fellow anti-coffee people. Whether it’s caffeinated or not, Boston offers a ton of options, even if you don’t like coffee.
Want to keep up with HCBU? Make sure to like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, check out our Pinterest board, and read our latest Tweets!