The holidays are almost here, and for college students, that means one thing – finals. Whether this is your first go-around with the finals ordeal or you’ve been through this more times than you care to think about, don’t allow yourself to get stuck in your school’s library. Take care of your sanity and get out to one of Bellingham’s many fabulous coffee shops to get your focus on.
Avellino–1329 Railroad Ave.–6-7 M-F; 7-7 Sa, Su
Avellino
is my favorite go-to reading or writing spot. The atmosphere is spot-on for focusing–great music, lots of cozy corners and some local art to keep you just distracted enough when need be.
Their espresso is out of this world. I recommend their Americano, plain and simple. If cream is your thing, go for it, but with their baristas masterfully pouring smooth shots every time, cream is not necessary.
Make sure to have a little room in your stomach when you come to camp out. Whether you like sweet or savory, they have a buttery delight for you. A toasted savory breakfast biscuit, complete with butter or a scone with fresh berries and white chocolate drizzle is a must.
With a wide variety of vegan, soy free and gluten free options, the diet-counscious need not get disheartened–Avellino’s accomodating alternatives are equally as divine as their egg, soy or wheat-filled counterparts.
Catch a break doing some people watching at this prime-time downtown spot in one of their cozy armchairs by the window.
Electric Beet Juice Co.–Inside the Public Market–1530 Cornwall Ave., 8-6 M-F, 9-5 Sa, 11-3 Su
Grab a seat among the books inside the Public Market. This spot is a great alternative for those trying to avoid relying too much on caffeine. The Electric Beet Juice Co. provides several options for energy and brain-power boosters.
At the juice bar, you can try the E3 Live BrainOn shots–made from kelp, these little guys will encourage some mental endurance without the inconvenience of addiction or a crash. Another healthful alternative to caffeine is the Fire Apple Cider Shot. The base ingredients, apple cider vinegar, jalapeno, garlic, turmeric and honey will not only give you a brain boost, but will help you stay healthy through the stress and chilly weather.
If fresh-squeezed juice is more your speed, countless options are available for sipping while you cram. Give the Little Miss Sunshine juice blend a go. The lively flavors of pineapple, ginger, orange, carrot and lemon will get those neurons firing big-time.
If your studying is successful, treat yourself by picking up a movie on your way out. Film is Truth recently moved into the Public Market as well. What better way to destress after a productive study sesh than a new flick?
Book Fare Cafe–1200 11th Street–10-8 M-Th; 10-10 F, Sa; 10-7 Su
Head up to the mezzanine level of Village Books to the Book Fare Cafe for a serene spot to review your notes or make headway on that reflection paper. With relatively late hours, especially over the weekend, this is an ideal spot to get out for some nighttime studying.
In addition to Bellingham-based Flying Bird Botanical Teas, Burlington-roasted Fidalgo Bay Coffee and and all your basic baked goods needs including lip-smacking Alice’s Pies, the cafe provides beer and wine–just the thing to get the creative brain juices flowing. Currently on tap are some of your favorite beverages from local breweries including Wander, Chuckanut, Kulshan and Aslan.
If its too early in the day to start with beer or wine, then consider trying a kombucha from Bellingham’s own Kombuchatown–perfect for settling the pre-exam nervous tummy. Battle the bad stuff in both your mind and body with the active bacteria cultures found in this tangy soda alternative.
Wind down after by browsing through some books, or checking out the knick-knacks in Paper Dreams.
Happy studying!
