With midterms coming up, it’s not a rarety to see Berkeley students setting up tents and camping out for coveted seats in the libraries. But we at the Clog understand that library studying isn’t for everyone, so we’ve compiled a list of our favorite cafe’s — one for each day of the week — for all your studying and caffeine needs.
1. People’s Cafe and Tea – Erum Khan
This little joint on Shattuck and University is convenient if you’re walking over from the VLSB side of campus and don’t feel like trekking to south side for a mocha. The eclectic decor of mosaics, wall murals, books and postcards is a nice getaway from typical coffee chains, as well as dark libraries if you’re looking to work. Not too crowded and with a good amount of seating, you should easily be able to find a nook to camp out in. Most people seem to plug into their free wifi and work while they sip/snack, so it’s not too noisy if you’re looking to do the same. The Mexican hot chocolate — a drink they’re lauded for — really does hit the spot if you’re looking for something a little different and at $2.25 it’s not too painful on the wallet.
2. The Beanery – Efe Atli
While the Elmwood cafe has Parisian posters from le belle epoch that satisfy the hipster in us all and the music is worthy of a Woody Allen film, the food and coffee are average. Prices are not high, but they’re not really low either. The credit card machine does not work, which is unfortunate because not all of us are named Pablo Escobar and carry around wads of cash. However, for those of us looking for a cozy study lair, The Beanery does shine. There are — gasp — multiple power outlets and extenders. Unless you get a new laptop every time Apple decides to make your adored MacBook obsolete, we’d expect that you’ve been in that position. While The Beanery is largely average, it is worth a visit. Besides, we never miss a chance to visit Elmwood — the prettier Telegraph.
3. UCafe – Mai Truong
Near the “Asian ghetto,” UCafe is set up for self-service: grab the tongs, fill your tray and pay, which takes less than five minutes even during the lunch rush. If you have more time, a banh mi is worth the wait. Only two kinds of banh mi are available now: cold cuts ($3.25) and grilled pork ($2.75). However, there are numerous choices of bread loaves, brioche, savory buns, sweet buns, mooncakes, shortcakes, cookies, macaroons and pretty cakes, most of which are under $3. The regular-sized coffee, bubble teas and smoothies are under $4. The best thing? No credit card limit. There is enough seating for three by the window, but UCafe is designed like a bakery, not a study spot. It’s clean and convenient. The taste is not top-notch but consistent, especially with the Spanish bun, a perfect $1.95 filler for those 10 minutes between classes.
4. A’Cuppa Tea – Eunice Choi
With lots of tables and chairs spread throughout two stories — including squishy sofa seats — this is a quiet, easy place to study. There’s an incredibly wide array of drink options, from smoothies to different sorts of green tea. There’s also a good selection of snacks like “Granola Oat Jacks” and “Carrot Ginger Muffins.” The staff is wonderful, carefully taking into account drink suggestions and just being relaxed and helpful overall. Not too far down College Ave., it has a laid-back atmosphere that encourages quiet and respect for others, yet still allows low-voice conversation to happen along with successful studying. It is clean, well-lit, and cozy!
5. Sack’s Coffee House – Jasmine Mausner
This treasure of a study spot is located on College Ave. near Derby St. As its name explains, the entire cafe is covered with potato sacks … not exactly sure why, but it adds to the small cafe charm that Sack’s presents. Their walls are adorned with paintings and photographs from local artists and their speciality drinks will keep you awake all day as you knock out that paper or midterm studying. Get there early, find a comfortably nook and get your study on.
Image source: Erum Khan, The Daily Californian