Classic Coffee, Starbucks and Klatch Coffee provide students with abundant coffee and study hangouts. Photo credit: Kimberly Smith
A daily morning coffee fix is a must for many students at Azusa Pacific. But with several local coffee shops offering a variety of flavored coffee, tea, and non-caffeinated beverages, which one should students pick?
The Clause reporter J. Yvette Tostado investigated by going to Starbucks, Classic Coffee and Coffee Klatch to rate their drinks, atmosphere and proximity to campus.
Starbucks: For the hurried student
1119 E. Alosta Ave, Azusa
Starbucks, a popular U.S. coffee chain, is located right next to APU’s East Campus, making it very convenient for any student walking or driving. Because its location is near the school and other businesses, the shop was a bit crowded and busy on a Thursday morning. The high noise level did not create the best environment for students looking for a quiet study spot.
The beverages were consistently top quality and the pastries well portioned, making it easy for customers to watch their caloric intake. The interior seemed a bit small, so finding a seat on a busy day was a little difficult.
Cost: Around $5 for a grande Caramel Frappuccino
Conclusion: Starbucks is great for hurried students who need to pick up coffee before running to class.
Classic Coffee: For the bookworm
148 N. Glendora Ave, Glendora
Classic Coffee is about a four-minute drive from campus. The shop was quiet for the most part, and there was plenty of seating available, both indoors and outdoors. It also offered classic board games like Yahtzee for students in the mood for competition.
Classic Coffee has a variety of coffee mixes, teas and other non-caffeinated drinks, along with pastries and gelato. The barista was well-trained and helpful, offering advice on drinks and recommendations based on the customer’s coffee preferences. The frozen hot chocolate is one of the popular drinks and a must-order; with a blended consistency and a taste exactly like hot chocolate, it’s sure to please. The shop has an open view of the street, providing a good atmosphere for both studying and relaxing.
Cost: Around $3.25 for a frozen hot chocolate
Conclusion: Classic Coffee provides the perfect atmosphere for a long, quiet day of studying.
Coffee Klatch: For the chatterbox
806 W. Arrow Highway, San Dimas
Coffee Klatch is a bit of a drive; it takes about 10 to 12 minutes. The location is slightly hidden because it is located in a shopping center, but the shop itself has a lot of open space, so it does not feel too crowded. However, it doesn’t offer ample seating space, so it may not be ideal for large groups of people.
Coffee Klatch offers a variety of coffee flavors, teas and so forth, and pricing on its products is about the same as Starbucks. Coffee Klatch offers pastries as well as deli sandwiches. The Clause reporter recommends the Patio Special: a unique, thick drink consisting of espresso, ice cream and a secret ingredient. The Monte Carlo sandwich, also a must-have, is made of toasted bread, turkey, ham and cheese topped with powdered sugar, and honey on the side.
Although the wait time was relatively short, the shop was busy and loud, creating more of a “coffee and conversation” type of place.
Cost: $4.95 for a Patio Special
Conclusion: Coffee Klatch is ideal for students meeting for a group project or catching up over coffee.