5 Best Coffee Shops Near USC

Coffee. It is one of the only things that gets college students going. Sure, a K-cup will suffice, but what about those days when you are craving something more? Keep reading to find the perfect coffee shop around USC for you! 

1. Cool Beans

Just steps away from the Historic Horseshoe, Cool Beans is the choice coffee shop for most students. They have a variety of creative drinks, including their delicious iced coffee, all of which are affordable for the college budget. The café offers good service and a great atmosphere, including staying open until midnight for anyone trying to cram. It is decorated with quirky sets of tables and chairs. It even has a bookshelf filled with board games available for customer use. The atmosphere, along with the aroma and taste of coffee, makes for a wonderful experience. 

2. College Grounds Café 

College Grounds is located in the same building as Cool Beans on the bottom level. It has all of the classic coffee drinks one would expect from a café at great prices. The layout of College Grounds allows for social gatherings to take place, so go grab coffee with a friend!

3. Blue Flour

While a bakery, Blue Flour offers some of the best coffee in Columbia. Located on Main Street, the shop has wonderfully flavored coffee drinks with many fresh-baked goods to compliment. The decor is upscale, clean and modern, making it just as aesthetically pleasing as it is tasty. Always quiet, Blue Flour is the ideal place to study with a friend or on your own. 

4. Drip

Drip has two locations: Main Street and Five Points. Both locations offer the same, delicious coffee. It is so rich in flavor, there is no need to add any extras to your drink (although, it certainly doesn’t hurt). Both locations have a slightly rock n’ roll theme, the location of Main being plastered with old photos and posters, and the location in Five Points having a room filled with old vinyl for sale. It gives off a great atmosphere for drinking some of the best coffee. While you’re there, also splurge on the Nutella French Toast, it is heavenly. 

5. The Gourmet Shop

While not strictly a café, The Gourmet Shop offers delicious coffee to match with their famous brunch. In particular, their iced coffee is quite popular among patrons (perhaps because they offer cheap refills). It is another great location to have coffee with friends and be social. The atmosphere is energetic and fun. The Gourmet Shop is also a part grocery store, so you can grab some of your own gourmet grounds to brew at home! 

Coffee is truly the energy source of all life that walks on a college campus, and USC is no exception. Hopefully, this list of coffee shops has helped you find your new go-to place for all things caffeinated. 

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