The Starbucks cafe in Cabell Library is a great place to get coffee if you’re on the go, but eventually, those dining dollars are going to run out leaving you with a coffee addiction that you need to scratch. Even though this seems like a setback, it’s actually the perfect excuse to check out some local cafes around campus. Here are four comfortable and welcoming coffee shops that you need to explore.
- Lamplighter Coffee Roasters
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This is my go-to spot when I’m on campus because all of my classes are located on Main Street. I tend to take advantage of that and frequent this coffee shop. Their lattes are good, but I haven’t had a good experience with their food. The muffins are usually dry and their bagels need some work. Other than those downsides, the atmosphere is really cozy, and the number of patrons studiously typing on their computers are sure to get you in a productive mood. Their prices for a 12-ounce latte is about the same everywhere else with little deviation.
- Harrison Street Cafe
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The atmosphere is warm and homey. Since the cafe is small, it’s hard to find tables because it’s always packed. My latte wasn’t a standout, definitely a good place to go to if the Cabell Library Starbucks gets too busy for you. They have a lot of vegan and vegetarian options for our dietary restricted friends, but the only downside is, they close at 3 p.m. This makes it hard for me if I want to do a 7 p.m. coffee run to help me finish that last-minute paper. Located on North Harrison Street, the cafe is a short walk from the Academic Learning Commons.
- The Lab: Alchemy Coffee
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This is my favorite coffee shop on the list. I’m a little biased because they make the best mocha latte, my go-to drink, so this cafe had to go on the list. The atmosphere is a little cold, but I chalk that up to the cafe being a little bigger than the other coffee shops on the list. What’s nice is that it’s right next to the VCU arts building on Broad Street, and it’s across the street from Rumors Thrift shop if you want to do some damage to your wallet. While I’ve noticed the latte prices here are a little higher than some other coffee shops, I think paying more is worth it to get a good cup of coffee.
- Sugar & Twine
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This is an honorable mention because they’re located in Carytown but the coffee and atmosphere at this cafe are worth the short bus ride. The cafe is a short walk from my job so you know I take advantage of that whenever I’m in Carytown. Their coffee and food is really good, with homemade sandwiches and baked goods you’ll find something to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whenever you purchase a sandwich they include a cookie on the house. Even though they’re always busy and crowded, because the cafe is so small, waiting in line is always worth it. If you ever want to try them out or take a stroll around Carytown rather than relying on an Uber or your upperclassmen friend to take you, there is a bus that’s free for students. There’s a stop right outside of the Gladding Residence Center that makes it easy for students to travel to Carytown.
Let me know your thoughts on each cafe and which one is your favorite!