Find out the specialties of each UC cafe and which ones are the best for studying or socializing!
Nanobyte Cafe: 6/10
This cafe in the Science 1 Research building is a little bit more hidden. Honestly, the ambiance here is great. Modern, sleek architecture, comfortable chairs, huge glass windows, and good food. Unfortunately, their specialty boba is not worth the hype (sorry guys) and it is a pretty far walk from all your classes. If you live in Northwest or Towers, this is definitely a good place to study if you don’t want to walk to the center of campus. Although it’s not a place for socializing, it’s nice to get some work done here.
Crossroads Cafe: 10/10
This cafe is a personal favorite. Its location, the Wilbur Cross Building, makes it accessible to the cozy south reading room that is perfect for studying, but make sure to stop here before for a quick bite. Their specialty is yogurt parfaits, which you can customize yourself. A little sheet is available where the line forms to order, and you choose your favorite toppings. Although the actual seating can fill up quickly, there are plenty of other spots to sit in the building. I love this plant-based cafe option!
Bookworms Cafe: 6/10
This cafe is nice for its prime location, which is easy to get to if you’re starving after any class — plus it’s open much longer than the other cafes. Unfortunately, they usually only offer cold sandwiches, and the ambiance isn’t very cozy (grey tables and bright yellow overhead lighting). Although it’s definitely needed for after that last late class when you’re in a rush to head back to the dorm, it’s not a first pick if you have some extra time to spare and studying that needs to get done.
Mango Cafe: 8/10
The Rec Center has the most delicious bowls and “gooey” sandwiches at this cafe. You can’t use a flex pass here, but you can take advantage of those points after you hit a nice workout. A smoothie or salad after a yoga class is the best way to go. Although it’s not the best place to study, the couches are quite comfy and the lighting is nice, so it’s a great way to recharge after exercising. I personally recommend the “Rancheros” bowl and the “California” gooey to eat!
Market Cafe: 7/10
For a social butterfly, this cafe is probably one of the best. Located in the center of campus at the Student Union, it’s perfect for a big group of friends. If you’re by yourself, It might be hard to find a spot to sit and it can feel a little overwhelming. The sandwiches and soups are warm, and you can grab a coffee to go as well! (I heard the chai is delicious.) It’s a pretty popular spot, but definitely worth going to, especially if you’re trying to use up those last flex passes and points before the semester ends.
The Beanery Cafe: 10/10
A top aesthetic location for dining, studying, and just catching up with friends is most certainly The Beanery. Its cozy red chairs, warm lighting, and big windows at the front make it the perfect vibe for any UConn student. The light chatter in the background and the sounds of espresso machines are top-tier when it comes to getting in the “studying zone.” It’s pretty close to Oak Hall and other surrounding class buildings, so it won’t be a far walk to grab something to eat or get a cup of coffee.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed these ratings of the following cafes, and maybe this helped to find a new spot on campus that you can enjoy. Make sure to check them all out and see which one suits your vibe best!