Let’s face it—when the week feels long or the days feel short and you’re running on five hours of sleep, the one thing most Collegiettes crave is a piping hot cup of rich, flavorful coffee. The aroma, the deliciousness, the jolt of caffeine, it’s something we all need and enjoy! The thing about coffee is that it’s hard not to get into a cup-of-joe routine. You may love the coffee shop you normally visit, but what about all the others around town; have you ever given them a try? Well, I’m here to give you a run down on the hottest java spots in Boone and maybe your typical coffee haunt will soon become just one of the many places you stop by for a cup of the freshest brew.
WIRED SCHOLAR CAFE:
Location: Downstairs Belk Library
It’s another one of those days where studying is akin to breathing. If you’re doing one, you’re doing the other. What’s the one thing that’ll get you through that big exam? A cup of joe, or maybe two…or twelve! The Wired Scholar, Belk Library’s very own coffee shop, is the perfect place for the intellectual in us all. Open late at night and early in the morning, the Wired Scholar is there for you when that cup of coffee is life or death…ok, maybe just pass or fail.
Try: Crème Brule and Americano
CONRADS COFFEE COMPANY
Location: Cafeteria, 105 Extension, and Shadowline Dr.
For the environmentalist in you, Conrad’s Coffee Company is the perfect java stop for those who go organic. Selling all Fair Trade Coffee to ensure that farmer’s get their fair share, Conrad’s shops “only import and roast the top one percent of the world’s best coffee.” Conrad’s offers an assortment of coffee flavors and a lot of delicious breads and treats to go with your drink. With 3 locations in the town of Boone, Conrad’s is delicious and easy to get to.
Try: Mocha or Vanilla Pound Cake Latte
CROSSROADS COFFEE SHOP
Location: Plemmons Student Union
When you’re up early on campus for a last minute study session or you have half an hour to spare between classes, Crossroads is the perfect place to prop your feet up and caffeinate. With plush couches, a cozy atmosphere, and tables wide enough for a semester’s worth of books, Crossroads is the ideal setting for academics; not to mention, the fact that an AppCard is accepted here (which is always important for those with a meal plan!). Whether you’re meeting up with your friends or cuddling up with good book, Crossroads is the most comfy and convenient place for an on-campus coffee beverage.
Try: Turtle, Chai and Drip Coffee
STICK BOY BREAD CO.
Location: Diagonal from Cannon Dorm, across Hardin St./321
A cup of coffee is good, a flavored latte is even better, but nothing is as delicious as a caffeinated drink with something baked alongside of it…and that’s where Stick Boy comes in! Located a little bit down the road from East and Cannon dorms, Stick Boy is the perfect spot for a coffee and snack break. Pair your beverage with a warm and gooey oatmeal chocolate chip cookie or a cinnamon bun with cream cheese icing, and your stomach will thank you for it. Not to mention their amazing specialty lattes, even their iced coffee is something worth talking about!
Try: Almond Joy Latte or Sweetened Iced Coffee
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ESPRESSO NEWS MOSAIC BOOKS:
Location: Howard Street, (past Raley Hall, next to Footsloggers)
Espresso News has been and always will be a favorite coffee shop for Mountaineers. With homemade baked goods, soup, and scones, E-News is just right for a rainy afternoon. It has a “Boonetown” atmosphere with mismatched furniture and local charm. Their location makes them one of the most visited coffee shops in Boone, right past Raley Hall and on the way to Walker. With a book selection, a new bar menu in the evening, and computers in the back when you’re not lugging around your laptop, Espresso News has it all. Their in house roasted beans provide customers with luscious coffee flavor and an ideal burst of caffeine!
Try: Drip Coffee or Peppermint White Mocha
STARBUCKS
Location: Marriott Hotel on 105 Extension (right past Wendy’s)
It’s familiar, it’s delicious, it’s just like the big city in a cup – who doesn’t love a delicious Starbucks beverage? When local brews just aren’t cutting it, the new Starbucks in the Marriott Hotel is the perfect caffeine pit-stop. Despite the lack of usual décor, the Marriot’s cozy round booths and abundant seating make it the ultimate spot for studying, meetings, or just a late night jolt. They don’t have frappuccinos yet, but don’t worry; I’ve been told they’ll be getting them in soon! (And those of you who frequent Harris Teeter may have noticed that they will be adding a Starbucks there sometime in the near future)
Try: Peppermint Mocha or Cinnamon Dolce Latte
ALCHEMY COFFEE
Location: Inside BeadBox on King Street
Alchemy is one of those quaintly hidden coffee spots, but once you find it, you’ll want to keep going back! Located inside BeadBox on King Street, Alchemy is the perfect stop for those who don’t exactly want to leave campus for a cup of java. Their “coffee lounge,” as they call it, offers free WiFi, lots of comfy and cozy seating, and features art created by locals. Also, if you’re planning on making a trip to Alchemy, don’t forget to check their Facebook page. They’re always posting free coupons that range from size upgrades to shots of espresso for no charge!
Try: Anything with Bald Guy Brew
Now go get your coffee fix, and don’t forget to try someplace new!