By Eva Wilton
Executive Editor
It’s that time of the year when finals and paper deadlines are approaching. Do you need that extra dose of caffeine? Here are three coffeehouses you might consider.
$$ = cappuccino under $ 3
$$$ = cappuccino over $ 3
Onyx Tonic
126 College St. Burlington, VT 05401
Monday – Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. & Sunday – Closed
$$$
If you are a caffeine expert and need a quiet place to study try this exceptional small coffee shop that is a block from Church St. Two years ago, owners Jason Gonzalez and Tiffany Farrant-Gonzalez opened this artisanal spot. They source their beans from some of the highest quality coffee producers such as City of Saints coffee, Madcap Coffee Company, and many more. Do not expect to get any caramel macchiatos, this place sticks to the basics. The simple menu serves a weekly rotating list of espressos, cortados, and filtered coffees. The walls are adorned with pop-art by Allyson Gutchell, a local Vermont artist who is on a rotating art display. They sell a small variety of baked goods from Monarch and the Milkweed and Miss Weinerz. When I arrived I felt at ease by the friendly atmosphere from the cashier and modern minimalist interior design. I asked for a recommendation from the cashier. He suggested a 6 oz. cortado which was espresso with steamed milk. Within one sip it brought me back to drinking a cappuccino on the side of an Italian speedway. This concentrated cup holds layers of rich tones with no bitter aftertaste. I would say that this is the go-to spot if you are in search for an expetional coffee.
Uncommon Ground
42 Church St. Burlington, VT 05401
Monday – Thursday: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
$$
If you are looking for a locally owned and operated business that serves strong coffee and a lively environment, then head to Uncommon Ground on lively Church Street. Opened over 20 years ago, they hold a reputation for their in-house coffee roasting. As you enter the door, the aroma of beans overtakes your senses. It is a booming business that plays high energy tracks and holds a constant crowd buzzing in and out. The beloved Burlington institution serves an extensive menu. They are famously known for their seasonal maple latte, the coffee shop also serves a selection of daily brewed coffee, large list of espresso drinks, and a variety of teas. There is a self-service bar to the left of the cashier which features dairy creamers and many non-dairy alternatives. This is great because you can prepare the coffee to your liking. They do not let just anyone prepare their coffee, they have highly skilled baristas undergo a long training process. I recommend finding a spot to sit in the back and ordering a Vienna roast (which comes with free refills) with a gluten-free tea cake. In the warmer months, I order the iced coffee with a dash of soy. I will forever adore this place.
Muddy Waters
184 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401
Monday: 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.Tuesday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 7:30 a.m. – 11 p.m. Sunday: 8:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
$$
If you are looking to go to escape to a dark underground and relax, go to Muddy Waters. Mostly known for their outlandish environment the minute you step you are in an outdoor oasis among the dark trees in a forest. It is unlike a typical coffeehouse because you are surrounded by large leather chairs and plants in every corner. You may feel inspired by the environment and if so, feel free to write a message on a piece of paper and roll it up so that way it can be left within the crevices of the the brick walls. The coffee is brewed from Sharpira’s, Dean’s Beans, and Vermont Artisan Coffee. When I ordered a cappuccino, I was impressed by the foam that was creamy and light at the same time. Also they serve a selection of baked goods such as cookies on the counter which are easy to grab. I recommend the cappuccino which is prepared with right amount of foam and and the carrot cake they serve is spiced to perfection.