In order to get any work done, I need to get away from the distractions of my dorm room and go somewhere calming with a steady flow of caffeine. With midterms fast approaching, you can find me studying by a window and sipping a dirty chai latte at a local coffee shop.
Two of my favorite coffee shops in downtown Oakland are Tierra Mia Coffee located at 2001 Broadway, and Farley’s East at 33 Grand Ave. Tierra Mia is on the corner, with large windows along the walls, flooding the cafe with natural light. The cafe serves Latin-inspired drinks, my favorite being the Horchata Latte.
Farley’s East has both indoor and outdoor seating, and I will always snag a seat at the counter in the front – if one is available. I make sure to always get a vegan donut while there, which is an exciting find for someone unable to eat dairy.
If you’re looking for something closer to the Mills Campus, I like to take the NL or 57 bus line to Hive, the place to bee at 2139 MacArthur Blvd. Hive has a fun, beehive theme that feels warm and cozy, with unique drinks like lavender lemonade. The bus stops directly across the street, so this cafe is very accessible.
If you’re more of a tea drinker, Sophie’s Cuppa Tea, located in Montclair at 2078 Antioch Ct, has a very relaxing, soothing atmosphere that facilitates studying. I always order the Green Javelin tea because it makes me feel awake and rejuvenated, but there is a wide variety of caffeinated and non-caffeinated teas to choose from.
All of these cafes are located in Oakland, accessible by public transit, and are the perfect places to prepare for midterms while treating yourself to a delicious drink or snack.
