For both coffee addicts (most of us) and coffee dabblers alike, getting the perfect cup of coffee during the day can be a serious struggle. To remedy that, we at Spoon have compiled a list of the best coffee spots on campus to keep you going all day.
Southside
1. Equator Coffee and Teas (ASUC Student Union)
Photo by Luna Zhang
With the long-awaited Student Union now open, you’re going to want to spend as much of your day in there as possible — that is, if you can find a seat. What better way to accompany your mid-day study break than with Equator’s new Nitro Coffee? If you’re not quite sure what Nitro coffee is yet, read up on it here.
Nitro coffee offers the cool, refreshing taste of iced coffee without the bitterness and the added bonus of more caffeine than the average iced coffee. It’s slightly creamier and bubbly, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself loving it black.
Takes Dining Points? Sadly, no.
2. Babette (South Hall)
Photo by Luna Zhang
This new coffee bar just opened up in South Hall this semester, giving Cal students another reason to visit UC Berkeley’s first building. This miniature version of Babette’s on Bancroft serves coffee, lattes and a small selection of pastries making this place ideal for a quick drop-in on the way to class.
Takes Dining Points? No.
Northside
3. Qualcomm Cafe (Sutardja Dai Hall)
Photo by Luna Zhang
Qualcomm is a good option if you’re looking to pair a meal with your coffee. This location serves Peet’s Coffee (and all of their delicious coffee drinks) as well as custom wraps throughout the day. Perks include plenty of seating in a quiet atmosphere, making it a great place for an all-day study session.
Takes Dining Points? Yes, thankfully.
4. Yali’s (Stanley Hall)
Photo by Luna Zhang
The line stretching out into Stanley Hall on a daily basis is a testament to their perfectly smooth lattes. Not to mention, the baristas at Yali’s are incredibly talented with their latte art. An adorable heart in your latte is the perfect treat after a tough exam.
Hungry? Options for lunch include salads, sandwiches and quiches, but get there early in the day as they tend to run out of focaccia bread around 5 pm.
Takes Dining Points? We wish.
5. The Coffee Lab (Hildebrand Hall-Chemistry Complex)
Photo by Luna Zhang
The coffee lab is a hidden UCB gem underneath the chemistry complex that serves the usual coffee fare but with increased caffeine. The location is perfect for getting your morning coffee before that dreaded 8 am lecture in Pimentel. The menu is limited to select coffee drinks and sandwiches, but every item hits the spot.
Takes Dining Points: No.
Now that you know where to get your coffee fix, you can head into midterm season ready-to-go, regardless of the all-nighter you’ve just pulled.