Luckily for us, we have a few hidden gems on campus to fulfill your urge for the real coffee house feeling you are longing for.
Etc. Coffeehouse
Address: S Goodwin Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
Hours: Monday through Friday: 9 A.M. – 10 P.M.
Etc. is a coffee shop run by Wesley Church. Volunteers work, and make delicious coffee and tea. The coffee is fair trade and can be made in several styles and flavors. An interesting thing about this coffee shop is that there is no set price of their items. Everything is donation based. The same four dollars it would cost you for a coffee at Starbucks, can be used here at Etc. and it goes directly to the Wesley Evening Food pantry. But you can chose how much you chose to pay, and any donation is accepted and appreciated. Not only are you ordering a delicious cup of coffee, but you are also giving back by donating to a worthy cause. They also have a pool table, and a fireplace. During finals week Etc. will put out hot chocolate and snacks for students in their typical study frenzy. If you are looking to give back, and also enjoy a delicious cup of fair trade coffee, than Etc. Coffeehouse is the place for you.
Intermezzo
Address: Krannert Center, 500 S Goodwin Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
Hours:
- Weekdays: 7:30 A.M. – 3:30 P.M. & before and after most performances
- Weekends: 90 minutes before most performances – end of performance
Intermezzo café does serve up delicious drinks; however, this isn’t all they sell. From soups and salads, to sandwiches and burgers Intermezzo is a casual yet lively café that can fill your desire for a macchiato and a parfait. The modern and relaxing atmosphere will set the tone for an awesome study session, or just fun for a lunch alone between classes. Intermezzo has a modern feel to it, with sturdy tables that will focus you and get you prepared. No slacking off will happen here, unless you keep ordering yummy goodies rather than studying.
Caffee Paradiso
Address: 801 S Lincoln Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
Hours: 7 A.M. – 6 P.M. everyday (winter)
Caffee Paradiso is the only coffee shop of its kind here in Chambana’s campus. A unique vibe can be witnessed at Caffee Paradiso in the best way possible. It is a welcoming and comfortable place to stay, and for hours on end when you may need a constant flow of coffee while studying. There is a large variety of seating as well, very eclectic furniture, and lots of electrical outlets. They serve food and desert for a little extra something to go along with your drink. And the service is awesome. Overall if you seek a chill and relaxed vibe, come to Caffee Paradiso, and you will be set.
Espresso Royale
Address: 1117 W Oregon St Urbana, IL 61801
Hours: 7 A.M. – midnight everyday
This specific Espresso is different than the others, it is in its own building and, therefore, gives the coffee shop feel you would want, unlike the one hidden in the UGL, which is basically a hallway for students from the UGL who need to use the bathroom. The atmosphere in this specific Espresso Royale is super colorful and fun. There are lots of small tables and other seating, and a seating area outside for when the weather allows. Also, Espresso in general makes delicious fair trade coffee in all styles. They never run out of ingredients, and always make their coffee delish. For a perfectly brewed cup, head over to this Espresso.
Café Kopi
Address: 109 North Walnut Champaign, IL 61820
Hours: 7 A.M. – midnight everyday
If you are willing to drive off campus, Café Kopi is the place to go. Their warmth and charm is consistent and they always have a large selection of loose teas, fresh pastries, and light lunches, and drinks of all kinds. You can sit and study using their free wifi away from the bustle of campus life, in their atmosphere fit for studying or unwinding with friends. They display local artists work on their walls, and play cool music. This place is awesome for those with cars at school who want to get away for a while.