If there is one thing I love most in the world it is a smooth, creamy, and delicious latte. For all you coffee drinkers like me, you understand the feeling of excitement and comfort when you have a perfect cup of coffee or find the perfect coffee house to do some work or relax and enjoy the environment. So, for anyone out there who needs a hot cup o' joe and an amazing place to enjoy it, I have created a list of my favorite coffee places in the St. Louis area.
1. Kayak's
Because this shop is just on the edge of Washington University's campus, the perfect place to grab a coffee and a sandwich while you settle in and get in some study time. With plenty of seating and tables, a warm fireplace, and an overall study-friendly atmosphere, this Kayak's gives students an amazing vibe to be productive. My recommendation: The vanilla latte (house-made syrup!) and a mocha muffin.
2. Cafe Ventana
In a similar style to Kayak's, Cafe Ventana is just on the edge of Saint Louis University, making it a great place for studying and work. I love the building because, as the name suggests, its huge windows bring in plenty of natural light. I love to sit in the big chairs by the fireplace and visit with friends or do some homework. My recommendation: "Coffee and Cigarettes" latte and a warm piece of apple cake.
3. RISE
Located in The Grove, I love the personality of both the building and the neighborhood in which RISE resides. The hidden gem of this place is upstairs which is full of eccentric and unique furniture that perfectly complements the exposed brick and original, old wood flooring. Not only is this building both lovely and hipster, but they make some of the best lattes I have ever had, probably because of the delectable house made syrups. My recommendation: the vanilla and any of the Whisk bakery treats.
4. Crave
Okay, what is cooler than an old church turned coffee shop? Crave is one of my favorite places to got between classes as it is located right next to Saint Louis University's Medical Campus. I enjoy the calmness that I feel in this building that allows me to study, but I also love that it is a great place to meet friends and catch up. My recommendation: Almond Joy latte and a Sambal turkey sandwich.
5. MoKaBe's
MoKaBe's has one of the most unique and creative latte menus I have seen. They have a long list of specialty lattes of different flavor combinations that have been developed by the baristas. The vibe of this place is very hipster and fun, making it a great place to go on the evenings and weekends to enjoy a latte and the company of friends. I love the location because it is right across the street from Tower Grove Park, and they are open late for my night study sessions. My recommendation: Princess Picky Vikki Latte and a vegan brownie
6. The Mudhouse
I discovered the Mud House almost 3 years ago, and since that day, this place has always been my go-to coffee house. I love everything about this cafe; from the funky wall art to the vintage typewriters and the hipster baristas to the amazing food, this place is so much more than just a good cup of coffee. The best part about the Mud house is that it is the perfect place for just about anybody. I can go alone to study, with my best friend for a day out, or with my parents for brunch. If the weather is nice, there is a gorgeous patio area outside that is the perfect amount of cozy and calm to compliment your drink. My recommendation: The lavender vanilla latte and the house-made granola, yogurt, and fruit.
Bonus: Mauhaus Cat Cafe
Okay guys, cats and lattes, what more does anyone need?? Scheduled to open in Summer of 2016 in Maplewood is Mauhaus, a cafe where you can drink your coffee in the company of some friendly felines. Mauhaus is partnering with Tenth Life Cat Rescue to create not only a great place for coffee, but also, an opportunity to help cats adjust to people and hopefully find a forever home.Wishing the best of luck and success to Mauhaus. So go follow them on Facebook, and get ready for this summer because it sounds like this place is going to be the cat's meow!
