OK guys, I have a confession to make: I'm addicted to coffee. (Or, more like that sweet caffeine in coffee.) My closest friends and anyone who follows me on social media can probably attest to this, but admittance is the first step to recovery, right? It works out though, because as a college student I probably need more caffeine than blood running through my veins. Unfortunately, this addiction has made me into a little bit of a coffee snob. So in case you ever find yourself in beautiful West Michigan, here are, in my opinion, the best coffee shops in the Grand Rapids area.

1. Madcap Coffee Company | Grand Rapids

Madcap is located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, a city that has my heart. Besides the stunning shop and large windows revealing pedestrian life outside, Madcap coffee is high in quality and flavor. The company imports from Columbia, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Guatemala, with each blend carrying a unique flavor.

2. Lemonjello's | Holland

Lemonjello's is nestled between Hope College and downtown Holland, a city that also holds my heart. I find it impossible to visit Holland without first stopping at LJ's. They carry Madcap coffee but provide a different, more student oriented atmosphere. My favorite quirk is their "mood" lattes--comfort, nonchalant, indecisive, stress reliever-- all with a different mixture of flavored syrups.

3. Rowster Coffee | Grand Rapids

Rowster, pronounced "roaster" is a small coffee shop on Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids. It's down the street from Wealthy St. Bakery, which is always a bonus. The decor is simple and aesthetically pleasing, including a bar overlooking Wealthy Street.

4. The Sparrows | Grand Rapids

The Sparrows is unique because apart from great coffee, they also have a newsstand. I've seen countless people read the morning paper in this cozy shop or outside on their patio. The baristas are very well educated on their coffee, and go out of there way to make sure you enjoy what you ordered. Oh, and try the Chai Latte--trust me.

5. Lantern Coffee Bar and Lounge | Grand Rapids

If you need to stay focused and study, go to Lantern. The Coffee Bar has a friendly atmosphere with windows overlooking Grand Rapids, but if you head down the stairs to the Lounge, the vibes change completely. There's wall to wall desks, couches, and a beautiful chandelier. On top of that, Lantern hosts an open mic every week.

6. Lyon Street Cafe |Grand Rapids

Lyon Street Cafe is located in the historic Heritage Hill District of Grand Rapids. Although we're reluctant to admit it, sometimes girls like going to coffee shops just because they're..well...cute. If that is ever your reasoning, I'm convinced it's because you've been to Lyon Street Cafe. Oh, and the coffee is good too.

7. PaLatte Coffee & Art | Grand Rapids

OK, I admit it...I like this coffee shop partly because of that pun. PaLatte is beautiful--they carry local art pieces on there walls year round. Every year during Art Prize, they showcase contestants paintings and sell them after the competition. I'm convinced there aren't many better combinations than coffee and art.

8. Nonna Cafe | Ada

This might be considered cheating, since technically Nonna's is more of a cafe than a coffee shop. BUT--there coffee is SO good. And who wouldn't mind some pancakes or quiche to go with a great cup of coffee? An even better bonus is it's in Downtown Ada, Michigan which is beautiful any time of year.

9. JP's Coffee and Espresso | Holland

If you're from Holland, you know JP's and LJ's (#2) hold quite a rivalry. While I would choose Lemonjello's any day, JP's has an amazing (larger) study space and even better coffee.

Until I left for college, I had no idea how many coffee shops were in the Grand Rapids area. We're lucky, friends. If you're even remotely a fan of coffee, do yourself a favor and ditch the Starbucks and Biggby. If you're fixed on spending 4 dollars a cup, it might as well be quality coffee that supports local business. Grab a friend, try something new, and happy caffeinating!