In a town as caffeinated as State College, the debate over the best coffee shop is as heated as the drinks themselves.

With a stacked lineup of contenders ranging from hidden gems to popular study spots, each cafe brings something unique to the table, including what’s in your cup. Whether you’re hunting for the best espresso, the most Instagram-worthy latte art, or just a place to refuel between classes, the options seem endless.

Let’s settle which cafe is brewing up the best coffee and vibes in Happy Valley.

James Russel: Elixr Coffee

No signage? No problem! Elixr Coffee Roasters is the quintessential coffee spot in State College, and its product speaks for itself. This coffee shop’s ambiance and atmosphere catapult it to the top of my coffee rankings. It’s worth noting that I am quite a caffeine addict, a frequent patron of Elixr, and can confidently say I have never left the shop disappointed. Although Elixr has multiple locations, it feels nothing like a chain.

The baristas at Elixr are not only friendly and welcoming, but they also make exceptional coffee that keeps customers like myself hooked. My most frequent order at Elixr is a caramel latte with oat milk. I know it’s a classic choice, but that is why Elixir is so excellent. Their classics taste the best in State College.

If you are looking for a coffee shop with a wonderful environment, gracious staff, delicious pastries, and sensational coffee, this is the place to be. It most certainly earns its stellar reputation, in my opinion.

Ally Eaton: Dear Joe: Cafe & Bakery

Although the Dear Joe: Cafe and Bakery in the renovated Nittany Lion Inn is a new addition to the State College coffee scene, it has quickly become one of the best coffee shops. To begin, the ambiance is unmatched. The antique, yet chic, decor was one of the first things I noticed when I entered the shop. For me, this is one of the most important things about a coffee shop. It genuinely has an impact on the overall vibe of the place and affects how long I decide to stay there. If you get bored of sitting and studying within the actual cafe, there are plenty of spots in the lobby that also make for great, quiet study spots. The versatility is a huge bonus for me!

In terms of the coffee itself, I find it to be very reasonably priced and delicious. The biggest feature Dear Joe offers is the ability to put a printed design on the coffee. The first time I went, I got James Franklin’s face! What better way to have your Monday morning coffee? They also have a variety of food options, including lunch offerings, that fuel you at whatever time of day you need.

The only downside is how far the location is from my apartment, but I find it well worth the price. I always stay for an extended time once I am there to get my time’s worth!

Evan Halfen: Sower’s Harvest Cafe

As a huge caffeine guy, I can be pretty picky when finding my go-to spot. Once I came across Sower’s Harvest a few years ago, I knew I found it. From the fresh, house-made food to the decor and vibes to its signature iced lattes, I always found myself going back for more. The cafe has really great customer service and wait times, making it the best spot in town. Between the prices and the quality of the food and drinks, this cafe will always hit the spot.

The coffee itself has to be my favorite cup in town. I always like trying one of the signature lattes and branching out from the typical coffee flavors. The chocolate-covered coffee bean mocha is the perfect drink for caffeine lovers and always has me coming back for me. Sower’s offers unique, fresh, and locally grown coffee, and you truly can’t get anything like it at any other coffee shop nearby.