Hidden Grounds has become a staple near Rutgers, serving creative drinks and hearty bites in a lively yet approachable setting. Students stop in for seasonal specials or classic lattes, often paired with popular items like salmon bagels or pita sandwiches. The café is compact but designed for both short breaks and long study sessions.
Summit Coffee has long been part of the Davidson College experience. Students frequent the café for its quality roasted beans and easygoing atmosphere, often stopping by before or after the local farmer’s market. Open-mic nights and music events add to its appeal as a cultural gathering space.
Cherry Coffee Roasters is known for its strong brews, airy space, and friendly crowd. It’s popular among students and remote workers looking for a relaxed vibe. Breakfast sandwiches are made fresh and pair perfectly with a pour-over or cappuccino. The patio outside adds another reason to stop and stay awhile.
Lion feels urban and laid-back, with a polished new seating area and welcoming staff. Their coffee is smooth, consistently strong, and often paired with a slice of banana bread that’s faintly sweet. They also package their beans for purchase so you can take the taste of Honolulu home. Great for both a quick caffeine fix and a chill hour of indulgence.
Drip is the kind of shop that balances substance and style with ease. The pistachio latte and Irish cream iced coffee are favorites, and their breakfast sandwiches are on point. With butcher block tables and a cute neighborhood location, it’s a great weekend hang or weekday pit stop for anyone craving something more than just average coffee.
Harper’s Cafe brings relaxed charm with its laid-back seating, board games, and friendly crowd. Their specialty syrups come on the side so you can customize your drink. Popular items include lavender lattes and avocado toast with microgreens. Sundays often feature open-mic poetry or small acoustic jams, reinforcing Harper’s reputation as a creative, queer-friendly gathering spot.
Right near the station, this café is perfect for people seeking something reliably comforting with minimal exposure. They’ve been there for decades, making stellar breakfast sandwiches and espresso drinks. The bustling but steady environment makes blending in effortless—no small talk required if you’re not in the mood.
Offering samosas, tagine, and soothing mint tea—great for hiding behind a hot drink with a low-key ambience. The vibe is mellow and sophisticated, and if your ex shows up, chances are they’ll grab a corner table far from yours
Urban Grind is the kind of place where you can post up with your laptop, order a chai latte with oat milk, and stay for Thursday night poetry. Seriously. The vibe is grounded and welcoming, and the food (like their pastries and pressed sandwiches) is worth more than a side glance. There's no rush here, and the no-phone rule adds a layer of mindfulness that’s rare in city cafés.