If you’re like me and most of the population, you probably start your mornings off with a cup of coffee. Luckily, Syracuse is home to many great coffee shops that each have something unique and fun about them!
Salt City Coffee
Salt City Coffee is one of the more well-known coffee shops on campus, located around the corner off of Marshall Street. The coffee shop is a popular spot for studying with its cozy vibes inside and lots of seating. Thrift store 3fifteen is also connected to the shop, so during one of your homework breaks, you can just walk over and browse through clothes and other items!
My go-to coffee here is one of their specialty drinks, the lavender berry latte with oat milk. They also have seasonal drinks to shake up your order. If you’re a fall drink lover, don’t walk, run to give their pumpkin spice latte a try!
Recess Coffee
The Recess Coffee location closest to campus is in a historic-looking house, only five minutes from the University. My favorite things about Recess is their outdoor seating that allows you to take in some sun and fresh air. They even have outlets outside, so you don’t need to worry about ruining the vibe when your laptop or phone battery is running low! The patio has a view of Westcott Street, a busy and artistic street with shops and restaurants. If the weather isn’t ideal for sitting outside, no big deal! There are many places to sit inside the cafe as well.
If you need a break from straight-up coffee, try their dirty chai. It mixes a chai tea latte with espresso shots, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Collegetown Bagels
Collegetown Bagels, newly opened this month, offers coffee, bagels, bowls, smoothies and sandwiches. On the corner of Marshall Street and University Avenue, this shop is a convenient stop for coffee on your way to class, and you can add one of their famous bagels to your order.
It has already attracted flocks of people and has a small business feel that fits perfectly into the college town scene. There’s indoor and outdoor seating available, but just know that it’s been a very popular spot since it opened, so a table may be hard to snag.
Peaks Coffee Company
You can see right into Peaks Coffee Co. from the street thanks to its all-glass walls. Taking breaks to people-watch through the walls really helps keep my energy up! The shop has a green vibe, and there are seats outside so you can enjoy the weather on nice days.
On Peaks’ “Back to School” specialty menu is the coconut head, a toasty vanilla latte mixed with coconut syrup and matcha. Coconut lover or not, the coffee surprised me and has my stamp of approval!
People’s Place
We love a student-run anything, and a student-run cafe is no different! Staffed exclusively by Syracuse University students, People’s Place is a hidden gem located on the bottom floor of Hendricks Chapel. The bright shop is tucked away in a corner, making you feel welcome as soon as you walk in. The students give the coffee shop a fun personality!
A fan favorite drink is the Austin Powers, a signature drink of coffee, hot chocolate and chocolate milk. Hot or cold, it stays frequently ordered all year long!
Written By Emily Rutkowski G’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.