What Does Your Coffee Shop Say About You?
State College is able to keep its “College Town” reputation in part because we have so many coffee spots. The thing is, your identity as a Penn Stater is heavily dependent on where you grab your cup of joe. Wanna know more? Look no further.
Irving’s: If you get coffee here you probably write for Onward State. It’s pretty much our unofficial newsroom. Aside from us, there is usually a whole bunch of different people having group meetings or interviews. There’s always someone hungover eating a breakfast sandwich at all times of the day, not that I can blame them. (Don’t you hate when they run out of everything bagels?!) The occasional baby will also show up, which is fine as long as it’s not crying. But the basement is great for getting work done, the upstairs is great for Facebook stalking, or at least screaming about the night before.
Saint’s: This is definitely the most pretentious place to sip your latte but it’s a really great place to post up for the day as well. There are a couple professors who are always there instead of their office, which is a fun opportunity to eavesdrop. The crowd is Schreyer/Grad student heavy, but that’s okay because you can definitely avoid the loud, screaming patrons that are always found at Irving’s. Plus they also have really good bagels. If you’re not a regular you may feel out of place. All that means is show up enough so that you become a regular. If you don’t have enough time or American Apparel to do that, then go somewhere else.
Starbucks (Burrowes): I always forget about this Starbucks. They just renovated the inside which looks really nice, and it’s always a lot less crowded than its Garner or HUB counterparts. This location isn’t as dense with undergrads either, which generally just means not so loud. When it’s nice out, definitely sit outside — it’s a great people watching opportunity. It you’re not into that, go there to get work done. They have weird neighbors, but I mean, hey, Chronic Town isn’t totally worthless I guess. Watch out for Noodles and Co. crowd, though.
Starbucks (Garner): If you’re in line waiting for coffee at the Starbucks on Garner, you probably live in Centre Court, Campus Towers or the Legacy. Or maybe you walked over from South Halls because the Starbucks in the HUB is always swamped. Either way, you’re probably carrying your MacBook in your Longchamp bag and texting about what happened the night before at Gman. Just get your Iced Skinny Vanilla Latte (ISVL) and get out.
Websters: Although it’s not on Allen anymore, Webster’s definitely still has a following. It definitely can be kind of clique-y, which is why I usually stay away. But hey, if you wanna get be real granola about it, head on over. They serve to their community and are a classic example of a “College Town” business, so give them support.
Dunkin Donuts: There used to be a Dunkin on both sides of College Ave but I guess all the New Englander’s live on towards the West side. I’m in no position to talk shit on munchkins, but I’m pretty sure being a Pats fan is a pre-requisite upon entry. If you’re deciding to drink their coffee, maybe it’s just a nod towards Bill O’Brien.
Cheese Shoppe: This is one of the most amazing “best kept secrets” in State College. This coffee here is SO. GOOD. Only problem is it’s cash only. It’s somewhere on Calder, just follow the scent.
McLanahans: I don’t know if you’re getting coffee here because it’s cheap or what, but stop it. I feel sick just writing about it. Although I do love McLanahan’s subs. Mmmmm. McLanahan’s subs.
Snappy’s: Don’t get coffee from Snappy’s. C’mon man. Respect yourself.
Did I forgot any coffee spots? Let us know in the comments (we know you would anyway)!
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