Let’s face it: We all need a treat in the middle of the day. Whether it’s to ease your intense stomach rumbles of an afternoon lecture or to energize yourself for that one seminar class graded on participation, no one can be a successful academic weapon without a tasty snack or drink between classes. As a certified snacker, here are six great spots in the NYU area to grab a tasty pick-me-up.

Hidden Grounds Chai & Coffee House’s New Orleans Brew | $6

36 Third Ave.

Having a go-to caffeinated drink is quintessential for college students. Hidden Grounds has a wide array of coffee and chai options, but my favorite for a fall evening is the New Orleans Brew. The bittersweet, nutty aroma of chicory cuts through the coffee to make for a deliciously earthy drink for the incoming season. Its location on Third Avenue, a few blocks away from Third Avenue North, makes it the optimal coffee stop near residence halls in the East Village and Cooper Square.

Hashi Market’s Matcha Soft Serve | $7.80

93 University Place

If you find yourself pulling an all-nighter, look no further than Hashi Market — the Japanese grocery store that opened near Weinstein Hall in July. The market’s matcha bar stays open until late at night, offering a wide range of matcha-based drinks and desserts like the rich, decadent matcha soft serve. The strong, bitter kick from the flavor of the matcha is sure to keep your tastebuds awake. Even if you don’t have a midterm to cram for, as the fall continues to remain unseasonably warm, this dessert is the ideal frozen treat to get you through the day or night.

Mille-Feuille Bakery Cafe’s Parisian Baguette | $3.50

552 LaGuardia Place

I enjoy the small things in life — like walking and eating a baguette, a snack you can enjoy for an extended period of time. If you have an hour or so to spare between classes, tear off pieces of this artisan baguette while annotating your readings to feel both fancy and productive. This tried-and-true baked good does a classic baguette justice with its chewy crust and spongy interior. It’s delicious alone, but even better dipped in butter. 

NoHo Juice Bar & Deli’s Green Juice | $6.50

208 Mercer St.

Sometimes, I realize that I haven’t eaten any fiber all day, and develop an intense motivation to nourish my body with the necessary nutrients. At the same time, hefty salads from the Marketplace at Kimmel are sometimes too much of a commitment for a quick 10-minute break between classes — so in my brief spouts of healthy eating, I turn to green juice. NoHo Juice Bar & Deli’s blend of celery, apples, collard greens, kale, cucumbers, lemons and ginger is as appetizing as it is healthful. If that isn’t quite your speed, this juice bar has plenty of other items on its menu, and also allows you to make a custom blend with any four vegetables or fruits. 

He He Cha’s Mango Slush | $7.75

42 University Place

Stop by this bubble tea shop for fun drinks at affordable prices. The Mango Slush is light and fluffy with a tangy-sweet mango flavor — a comforting remedy for any negative experience, no matter if you’ve gotten a low grade or didn’t receive a text back from your situationship. Another great option is the $7.75 Crème Brûlée Milk Tea, which contains bright notes of custard and vanilla, not to mention bits of caramelized sugar. Conveniently located between Washington Square Park and Union Square, He He Cha offers plenty of drinks to treat yourself with as you head home after a long day of class. 

The Market at Sidestein’s snack section 

5 University Place

Now, hear me out: Even if you don’t live in Weinstein, the Market at Sidestein is a versatile gem. With a large selection of chips, flavors of ice cream, protein bars, granola, candy and more, this market is one of NYU’s most convenient places to spend your Dining Dollars — and by doing so, save money. More than any other spot on this list, Sidestein is where I most often frequent for a quick snack or drink. After all, getting a bag of sea salt and vinegar chips with a can of Strawberry Lemon Poppi doesn’t sacrifice my personal wallet, nor my punctuality.

Contact Sreya Nair at [email protected].