Amherst, Hadley, and the surrounding area sometimes feel like a combination of isolated college communities and farms, but little gems within the areas provide a much-needed glow. For me, this gem has been the delicious local cafes each offering a unique ambiance and delicious food. Exploring them and trying new menu items has become a lovely weekend ritual, as I have never met a breakfast I did not like. This is not a complete list, but rather one that encompasses the cafes that I have found myself to be a regular at and look forward to every time.
Shelburne Falls coffee roasters
Shelburne Falls Coffee Roasters is famous for its student discount; I have forever loved this little place. While it is a slightly off-putting building, once you step inside, the aroma of coffee and maple syrup really draws you in. In the warmer months, a few flies may turn you off, but that is simply a side effect of the syrup’s sweetness. Any coffee from here is simply to die for. Especially a nice maple brown sugar latte when available. The staff always provides great recommendations when I am stuck, which makes it so much better. If you are on a budget, a bagel must be your choice. All their bagels and most sandwiches are drizzled with syrup, which sounds odd but provides a nice salty-sweet flavor I always crave. The garlic chive cream cheese will also change your life. I have never left here unsatisfied, and it typically is not too busy. Always a free sample of a treat at the counter as well. Not the most scenic, but for a quick bite, it does the job.
The Works cafe
I think pretty much everyone I know has been to The Works Cafe. It is a great place to study and is conveniently located downtown. They have great hours for a breakfast/lunch place, which is also a huge plus. Decently priced, especially with discounted day-old goods. Pretty much a homemade Panera, as I like to call it; you can do a similar meal to a you-pick-two. Their mac and cheese are amazing, and I love to pair it with their barbeque chicken sandwich. Smoothies are amazing, along with their coffee – an iced mocha latte is my favorite. I also love their muffins, they are my go-to snack when I come here to study. There are many outlets around to plug in your computer. On my way home, I even stopped by for a loaf of nice bread. You can’t go wrong with anything here, and if you need a bagel, the bacon scallion cream cheese is unreal.
Coronation cafe
Coronation Cafe has been my favorite by far. Their hours are limited, but their food and the atmosphere make up for it. The cafe itself is so cute and welcoming. The food is on another level, though. They make some of the best lattes I have ever had, and that is not even a mild exaggeration. I love an iced caramel late from here. Their chicken bacon ranch sandwich is my favorite, literally one of the most delicious things I have ever put in my mouth. A little on the pricier side, but you can choose to do a half portion of many of their plates ad save a few dollars. I also recommend heating up a muffin, the coffee cake being my favorite. One of my friends goes feral for their french toast (with all the toppings). The staff is so kind as well, which makes the environment so much better, and it never gets too busy.
Johnny’s roadside diner
Johnny’s Roadside Diner is my favorite palace to go to with my parents. Mostly because they have the most hilarious names for their menu options. The most memorable being “I’m broke” and “dads paying.” The staff is so friendly here and the food is amazing, it is your typical diner-style, homey food. A little pricey, but still under $15 per person for a nice meal and drink. It is definitely a sit-down place and always filled with students. My mom asks me to go here when my parents come to visit. The metal building and traditional diner decor are the perfect aesthetic for a nice breakfast or brunch. Even close enough to walk if you live in Southwest. I always take my leftovers home to my roommate because there always are some, and she enjoys them even heated up.
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