Our bond runs so deep that over time I can feel that little mug shaped hole in my heart expanding slowly. Thanks to you, I survive college one day at a time. And itâs not just me. Whether we am up studying all night, or we really donât want to be awake in that one English class, or we are awaken by that 6:40 AM alarm for our favorite Friday meetings, we yearn for you and your elusive powers. My dear friend, how do you do it?
 As a tribute to coffee, I searched. I search high and low, far and wide, and as far as I felt from venturing from my dorm without a car of my own. The aim was to discover where coffee hides itâs best.  Having scratched only the surface of this elusive Austin coffee culture, I bring to my fellow coffee lovers a list of my favorite experiences during this short-lived journey towards coffee nirvana. No Starbucks on this this. Just great local places to get your daily perk.
  The Hideout Coffeehouse
Eclectic, yet cozy, Hideout Coffeehouse was one of my first experiences venturing out on my own in downtown Austin. They boast a fun menu, equipped with interesting names to keep you entertained when trying to decide what to order. I promise you, this is not the place to stick with âthe usualâ. Bring a friend, and get a dessert while youâre at it. Itâs all good at the Hideout.
Favorite item: Gorilla Mocha
Pros: They host awesome improve comedy shows during the weekends.
Cons: This is not an optimal place to study.
                 A little far from campus, it may require a bus or bike ride to reach this gem. Flightpath is truly the best of both worlds. A front room and patio invites those who just want to wind down and catch up with friends over a tasty drink. Just past the counter, you will find yourself in the most productive room I have ever had the pleasure of studying in. Check out the flyers, they promote a lot of local events! Their brewed coffee is not something I would rave over (Texas Coffee Traders), but their other drinks make up for it.
                 Favorite item: Iced New Orleans
Pros: Lots of snacks available to purchase.
Cons: Depending on the time of day there may not be too many open tables, but donât be shy to ask to share.
If this Texas weather were in my favor, I would most likely end up here. The atmosphere is fun and is perfect for getting a group of friends together or grabbing something to go. Beware is food truck that has the awesome opportunity of being located in the Spider House Village. This unfortunately makes it hard for them to get the recognition they deserve. The baristas are spot on, great people. If you are not convinced already, everything is very affordable. AND everything tastes great! I have never had a bad cup here.
Pros: Takes cards with no additional fee.
La Tazza Fresca offers a great atmosphere AND if you come at the right time, cute baristas. Equipped with options, the menu includes everything you might want in a cafe: hot and iced teas, Italian sodas, beer, wine, a good brewed coffee, and delicious food and desserts. Â The interior boasts table of varying shapes to accommodate groups of different sizes. In the evenings, this joint becomes a prime studying spot.
Favorite item: Flavored Latte
Pros: Wine and board games.
Cons: Gets crowded and cramped during the evenings.
If you have not been to Epoch, I highly recommend you go soon. Located in North Austin, Epoch brings in a large crowd from all walks of life (get your people watching on) during all hours of the day. Thatâs right, 24 hours. They have a lot of nice patio space, considering the interior is usually filled up from people studying/working for who knows how long. The menu is pretty standard, but I would have to say itâs all about the overall experience. Epoch is great place to grab your buddy and sit on their patio and maybe get some work done.
Favorite item: Iced Mexican Mocha
Pros: Neighbors a cool vintage clothing store.
Cons: Smoking is allowed on the patio.
