Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Fulfilling coffee fix easy to do in Athens

By on August 9, 2007

Holly Blanchard reads in Hot Corner Coffee
located at the corner of Washington and Hull streets
Holly Blanchard reads in Hot Corner Coffee's "Quiet Room."" The shop

Athens offers coffee shops in bulk, but that doesn’t always mean a caramel latte at Jittery Joe’s will make you as happy as the one at Starbucks; keeping a list of what ‘caffeine fix’ to get at each of these shops is key.

Starbucks, the powerhouse of coffee, is the first place that comes to mind when a java craving calls, and although they make a wonderful cinnamon-soy-chai latte, their overall caf� selection is less than extraordinary.

Not to mention, if your day calls for a venti, it could cost you almost as much as a meal.

There are other options, though, appeasing taste buds as well as pocketbooks.

Espresso Royale has a wide selection of coffee flavors for the boldest and meekest coffee-lovers.

Their lattes are only $2 on Wednesdays, any size. For a little extra, patrons may add flavors and create any unique concoction they desire. Try a honey latte for an extra boost in the morning.

If you aren’t a coffee lover, Espresso Royale also offers a number of loose-leaf teas from rooibos to oolong.

Many Jittery Joe’s shops can be found around town, including in the Student Learning Center on campus.

Although their mixed treats could be better, the medium roast coffee has a nice, bold flavor, only complimented by hazelnut syrup.

Hot Corner, open 24 hours and located downtown, offers a wide variety of drinks – both classic and unique in flavor.

“My favorite coffee is Hot Corner’s house medium roast. It is actually flavorful, and never has a burnt taste, unlike some of the bigger corporations around town,” said Jessie Bandy, a junior from Austin, Texas.

Their ‘White China Freeze’ combines the perfect amount of white chocolate and chai to make any hot day refreshing; they will also make it as a hot drink if your heart so desires.

Walker’s Coffee Shop and Pub has a great caramel apple cider, and a large selection of coffee flavors, none leaving anything to complain about.

Look for discount cards at each coffee shop; there may be a free drink in store.