As college students, we are categorized educationally by interest, socially by choice and theoretically by class status, but we all have one thing in common: early mornings.
Let’s face it. It’s rare to find a “morning person” on a college campus. Whether you’re battling a grueling hangover from the night before or attempting to drag yourself out of bed just in time for your 8 a.m. class- a caffeine fix can save your life. But when the line for Einstein’s extends out to Vaughn courtyard and $5 Starbucks coffees have exhausted your mom’s debit card, where do we turn for a steamy mug of liquid energy?
1. Buddy Brew Coffee. Located on 2020 W. Kennedy Boulevard, this local coffee shop featuring a unique blend of beans will make your heart sprint. What appears to be a tiny corner store from the exterior will open your eyes to a wide variety of flavors. The comfortable rustic environment will make you feel as if you’re lounging in your living room upon walking through the door. Bring your pup along if you please, outside seating provides a pleasant experience for everyone. Experimental brewing methods showcased behind the bar accompanied by an array of coffee paraphernalia will heighten your coffee standards.
Roasted to order, Buddy Brew coffee is the hub for global blends from Bali, Columbia, Costa Rica, Sumatra, Kenya, Mexico and Tanzania. Serving up to four brews daily, you’ll be sure to find a selection with all the right notes. If you’re a smart phone user, be sure to sign up for the Foursquare application. Your first coffee at Buddy Brew is on the house when you check in!
2. Indigo Trading Co. Marks the corner of Twiggs and Franklin street in downtown Tampa. Voted the Best Coffee in Tampa Bay for the past two years, this joint will never disappoint. Within walking distance from school and the ever so popular Howard Johnson dorms, Indigo is your best bet if you are in a time crunch. Open at 6 a.m. daily at the early bird or over-nighter’s convenience, this place fulfills every coffee guru’s dreams. The modern interior and nutty aroma of fresh brewed beans put a positive spin on your morning.
Artisan roasted beans hand-picked from Costa Rica, Kenya and Guatemala make up their signature blend Indigo Indulgence. If coffee isn’t the first on your to-do list, try the chai latte, a chai treat immersed in steamed milk and whipped cream at your request. If you need a quick pick-me-up, you can grab a bagel, croissant or yogurt to go. This coffee house also caters to the night crowd with live music on Friday nights if you’re seeking something new and low-key.
3. Tre Amici @ The Bunker. If you have never visited The Bunker, you are seriously depriving yourself of an uplifting establishment. Located right outside of Ybor City on 1907 N. 19th street, this unique niche harbors a delightful food menu, espresso and wine bar and the perfect working environment. The industrial style invites you to relax and open your mind to a world of innovation while sipping on something new.
The Bunker offers a plentiful selection of espresso drinks, smoothies and specialty drinks. Try the Crème Brulee Latte if you’re yearning for something sweet, notes of toasted caramel and vanilla are guaranteed to dance in your mouth. A cup of café con leche or Americano will take you on a more traditional route. Free Wi-Fi makes the Bunker an ideal hangout spot to kick back and conquer a 12-page report or hold a meeting for a group project. You can find love at date night on Saturdays at 9 p.m. However, if you prefer a challenge with your coffee, stop in on the second and fourth Fridays of the month for trivia night at 7:30-9:30 pm.
Melissa Santell can be reached at msantell@spartans.ut.edu.