Calling all coffee enthusiasts!
As the fall semester kicks into full gear, the need for some good java is at an all-time high. Walking to a 9 a.m. lab doesn’t feel complete without a warm cappuccino in hand. Our caffeine addictions are intensifying, and not to mention the three glorified words of fall are officially among us: Pumpkin. Spice. Season.
Some may call us “basic” as we stand up in a crowded cafe to reach the perfect angle to capture our “brew-tiful” latte art, but I think of it as more of an artistic interest – like a wine connoisseur…but with coffee.
And, lucky for us, Happy Valley has some of the hippest, coziest, trendiest coffee shops in the game. Nothing against Starbucks, but if you’re a true java-junkie, then you have to try out these hidden gems:
1. Barranquero Cafe
Located in the Calder Way alley (beside Bagel Crust), this place specializes in authentic Colombian coffees and finger foods. They feature a variety of Colombian blends prepared in a variety of different brew methods. They also make amazing aromatic teas and the homemade Colombian empanadas are to die for. Not to mention, it has the cutest atmosphere ever. Retro furniture, wall art, and upstairs seating make this place the perfect hidden study spot. Instagram-ability rating is a solid 10/10.
2. Saint’s Cafe
If you’re craving a sweet pick-me-up, you’re gonna love this cafe “a-latte.”
Tucked away on Beaver Ave., Saint’s Cafe is one of State College’s most legendary hipster hot spots. The specialty drinks are exceptionally crafted, and the interior is trendy AF. I recommend the Hot Mocha paired with a slice of their homemade carrot cake.
3. Sower’s Harvest Cafe
This hidden gem isn’t quite as renowned as the others, but it’s my personal favorite. This cafe not only has the best menu hands-down, but they’re also owned and operated by a friendly and caring staff. Come here for a Peanut Butter Toffee Latte (even the name of that makes me drool), paired with a homemade sticky bun and you’re good to go. But if you’re a health nut, no worries – they have the most beautiful yogurt parfaits, omelets, and colorful salads. I can’t even espresso my love for this place.
4. Rothrock Coffee
Coffee snobs, this is the spot for you. Rothrock Coffee proudly sources, roasts, cups, tests, brews and creates all of their own coffee – and I can assure you the quality proves it well. With a huge coffee-grinding machine located right behind the counter, you know you’re getting the freshest beans in State College. Located in a plaza on S. Atherton, this place is a little harder to get to without a car. But, trust me – the artisan espresso and Grade-A avocado toast is worth the drive.
5. Webster’s Bookstore and Cafe
Three words: Ultimate. Hipster. Haven.
This bookstore/cafe on Beaver Ave. is the definition of “underground.” Tucked away under a flight of steps, Webster’s focuses on European-style coffee beverages and also operates as a general used-book and vintage-vinyl shop and event space focused around art, theatre, poetry, literature and live music. They make most of the cafe food items in-house; they specialize in vegan, gluten-free options, and the coffee is all organic and fair trade! And the small, family-oriented staff is even sweeter than a caramel cappuccino.
This can give you new incentive to “Treat yo’ self” after that big exam, or indulge as you spend hours studying for it. Now that you know the five cafe hot spots of State College, you’ll be sure to find the best macchiato in town. Who needs a bar crawl?
Happy sipping, collegiettes!