Get your caffeine fix at these local cafes

Nishad More

Customers using laptops at Stumptown Coffee Roasters on 8th street.

Tejas A. Sawant, Contributing Writer

As the frenzy of finals week approaches, students are eagerly seeking out study spots aside from Bobst. With their access to caffeine, wifi and fresh air, coffee shops are an ideal study location. Next time you need to find a spot near campus to crack open the books, consider one of these cafes.

1. Stumptown Coffee Roasters (30 W. Eighth St.)

This Portland chain has made its way to our campus, and is known for its decor and cosy ambiance. The spacious cafe is a great study spot and features a brew bar — an area where you can try out different coffees and brewing methods. 

2. Saturdays Surf NYC (31 Crosby St.)

This SoHo location contains a coffee shop in the back of a surf store and boutique. Although there is no indoor seating, a back patio full of plants and wooden benches is an enjoyable study spot for when the weather starts warming up. The laid-back vibe of the store and the unusual calm that it offers in the midst of a bustling neighborhood makes it a calming spot to do work.

3. Caffè Reggio (119 MacDougal St.)

This historic cafe is the first one to serve the cappuccino in the United States. To this day, it is decorated with Renaissance-style paintings and old furniture. Apart from the fantastic coffee, you can also feast on Italian delicacies like tiramisu and cannoli for a study-break sugar rush. Outdoor seating provides a way to enjoy the upcoming spring weather. But remember, Caffè Reggio is cash only. 

4. Kopi Kopi NYC (68 W. Third St.)

Kopi Kopi offers a menu as exotic as its name, which is Indonesian for coffee. This fairly new and quiet spot offers a great opportunity to get work done while getting a taste of Indonesian culture. While it does offer the usual cappuccino and espresso, it is worth trying the exotic options such as Brüléed Cappuccino and Hot Ginger Brew made with palm sugar. The place is also easy on the wallet — all NYU students receive a 10 percent discount.

5. Grounded Organic Coffee & Tea House (28 Jane St.)

The charm of Grounded lies in its simple aesthetic. The shop is clutter free, making it easy to concentrate. Treats like the Nutella Latte are sure to complement this laid-back environment. This place is known to offer great snack options for vegetarians as well as being committed to using fresh, organic products and supporting local farms.

A version of this article appeared in the Monday, April 13 print edition. Email Tejas A. Sawant at [email protected].