There comes a time in every college student’s life when you realize that no matter how productive you think you are in your bed, you need to get your ass to the library. Peace and quiet has its perks, but I know that since the last finals week I still experience a little bit of PTSD every time I set foot in the library. If you’re ever looking for a change of pace or an inspiring work place with a noise level a bit louder than a library but quieter than the hustle and bustle in Commons or Rand, look no further than these coffee shops.
Photo by Natalie Brown
Provence Breads & Café
Located in Hillsboro Village, Provence is a quick trip from the Commons and pretty close to Branscomb and Main Campus (probably a cheap Uber if you’re feeling extra lazy). Provence offers a wide variety of gourmet coffee drinks, baked goods, seasonal soups, sandwiches and even crepes and frittatas if you come for breakfast. You can easily get your caffeine fix without having to dilute the coffee with absurd amounts of half and half like you do in the dining halls. Check this article out to dispel some common coffee myths. It’s also on the Commodore Card, so no wallet is required. Besides the good food, the atmosphere is ideal for writing essays, doing reading or group work. There are many tables and usually not too many patrons depending on the time of day. The best part is the music they play, not loud enough to be distracting, but the perfect soothing coffee shop playlist featuring artists like The Postal Service.
Address: 1705 21st Avenue South Nashville, TN 37212
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-8pm, Saturday 8am-8pm, Sunday 8am-6pm
Photo by Marisa Goldstein
Fido
Another Hillsboro gem, Fido is probably one of the trendiest restaurants you can do homework in. Celebs like Miley and Taylor Swift have been spotted here (disclaimer: they were not doing homework). The menu is broad enough to satisfy any study craving you get – from eggs to bagels to pancakes to salads, tacos, burgers and more. For 10 healthy study snacks, click here. The coffee is also superb, with seasonal signature drinks served in huge, homey mugs. Also, the baked goods are divine. While it’s usually pretty busy, there is enough seating for you to find a quiet section to settle down and get some work done. The long, roomy tables make it easy to spread out all of your notes and textbooks. But beware of the faulty WiFi and make sure to bring work that doesn’t require internet connection!
Address: 1812 21st Avenue South Nashville, TN 37212
Hours: 7 days a week 7am-11pm
Photo by Shelly Feldman
Atmalogy
Atmalogy comes close to Fido in terms of trendiness, with a chill and vintage vibe that makes it the ideal cozy place to settle down and do work. The menu has a wide, funky range of brunch-type of foods, from a Greek yogurt bowl to the beautiful avocado toast pictured here. There are also hot-pressed wraps, sandwiches, salads and items to accommodate vegans and those with gluten allergies. With house-made Chai Lattes, fresh juices and smoothies, teas and coffee and even organic bottles of wine that my poli-sci professor swears are the hallmark of the Democrats, it is safe to say that you’ll be adequately hydrated. For new food and coffee pairings, look no further.
Address: 2320 West End Avenue Nashville, TN 37203
Hours: Monday-Thursday 8am-8pm, Friday-Saturday 8am-6pm, Sunday 9am-6pm
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