If you've got an afternoon full of TikTok scrolling while studying, you'll need a spot that has a place to charge up, a strong connection, and even stronger coffee. Boston is a college town, through and through, but not every coffee shop will be student-friendly. Fear not: we know the best places in Back Bay, Boston to grab a stellar latte and a comfy seat near an outlet.
We’ve rounded up our favorite Back Bay cafés that offer not just coffee, but also sustenance (don’t skip the Voyager sandwich at Pavement!), Instagram-friendly surroundings (are you even studying if you didn’t post about it?), and speedy internet connections. Check them out the next time you need a change of scenery.
Phinista Cafe
96 Peterborough St, Boston, MA 02215
$$$
This French-Vietnamese spot is the best place to study while satisfying your sweet tooth. It offers free Wi-Fi and outlets you don’t need to compete over. Plus, it has a stellar menu that includes a divine matcha bun pastry and a chocolate crepe with strawberries that pairs perfectly with Phin-brewed coffee.
Newsfeed Café
700 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116
$$
Located in the heart of the Boston Public Library, you’ll have access to free Wi-Fi, as well as outlets and snacks to munch on from the Grab 'n' Go counter, including sandwiches, salads, coffee, and tea. Make sure you get there early though—this popular spot fills up fast!
Trident Booksellers
338 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02115
$$$
Trident Booksellers is a unique place where you can sip coffee or a cocktail. (Yep, there’s booze too.) It’s also a wonderful spot to join the Boston community during their weekly events, including open mic nights, trivia, and more. Be sure to order the Potato Chuckwagon when you go — it’s arguably the tastiest dish on their all-day breakfast menu.
Capital One Café
799 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116
$$
Even if you don’t bank with Capital One, you should definitely check out the Capital One Café on Boylston Street in Boston. It has a wide selection of Peet's Coffee and tea, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of outlets. If you do happen to have a Capital One card, you’ll get a discount on the café’s treats.
Pavement Coffeehouse
1334 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02215
$$
If you're a Boston native or a bagel sandwich connoisseur, then you’re probably already familiar with Pavement Coffeehouse. With many different locations around the city, it’s a great go-to when you want to catch up on some reading, work, or simply, sip on a latte. Pavement also has free Wi-Fi as well as a handful of outlets so you can keep your computer charged, while simultaneously charging up with the delicious coffee. Pro tip: Order ahead on the Pavement app so you don’t have to wait long for your soon-to-be-favorite “Presto! Pesto!” sandwich to come out.
Tatte Bakery & Cafe
399 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116
$$$
Tatte Bakery is one of the most elegant coffee shop chains in the Boston area. With photo-worthy decor and mouth-watering food (like the lamb hash!), you’ll never want to leave, and because Tatte offers free Wi-Fi, you won’t have to! Plan on bringing your textbooks, your computer, your phone—and maybe even your camera—so you can capture the beauty that is this bakery.
Jonquils Cafe and Bakery
125 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02116
$$
This stylish café, which offers desserts that are made in-house daily, fits in perfectly with its location on Newbury Street. The only caution is that the pastries are (almost) too pretty to eat. (You’ll understand when you order the Exotique Spheres!) Come for the Snow Flower bev and strong Wi-Fi. Stay for the inviting vibe and warm hospitality.
Flour Bakery & Cafe
131 Clarendon St., Boston, MA 02116
$$$
This local chain is a great place to study and is the ideal spot to go if you have an allergy. With many gluten-free and nut-free options—like the raspberry meringue cloud and the grilled cauliflower sandwich—you’ll have plenty to choose from. But be sure to get there early to save your spot near an outlet since this is a student fave!
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the information listed here may be subject to change. Contact each restaurant directly for more information.