You don't have to go far to get that caffeine fix Coffee: nectar of the gods. OK, maybe not. But there is such a wonderful variety of brewed concoctions that comes from that little bean. Fortunately, Gainesville caters to those who crave the sometimes bitter but always fulfilling taste of fresh-brewed coffee.
As an alternative to making a home blend or ordering the watered-down restaurant version, there are several venues that allow those craving the dark brew to sit in a cozy atmosphere and savor each sip.
With a friendly smile, the bartender serves up all forms of coffee - espressos, lattes, mochas and colossal cappuccinos as well as beer and desserts. Their prices are a bit steep, but it seems that almost every coffee specialty shop charges obscene amounts for a cup if it tastes good enough.
Sitting at a small table or in the shadowy couch pit surrounded by shelves of well-worn books, visitors can enjoy just about any style of coffee they want - from a small, steaming cup of espresso to a tall coffee milkshake topped with piles of whipped cream. For those who are finicky about coffee additives, a tray on the bar offers half-and-half, milk, sugar and honey. Whatever isn't there can be found behind the bar.
In the heart of downtown is another shop catering to the late-night activities of jittery caffeine junkies looking for a fix: Maude's Classic Cafe at 101 SE 2nd Place. The cafe, decorated with swirls of sparkling white Christmas lights, is more relaxing than Common Grounds. On a nice night the atmosphere is perfect as jazz drifts out into the courtyard.
Those looking for a peaceful setting for coffee talks can lounge in the courtyard or the bakery-style cafe. The courtyard is crowded with white patio furniture which the waitstaff weaves through to deliver menus and orders. Inside there is a counter surrounded by coffee paraphernalia, small tables and hanging plants.
Whether seated inside or in the courtyard, patrons of Maude's must entertain themselves because the coffee shop concentrates more on consumable items than amusement. There is plenty of time between ordering and receiving the steaming cup of joy to catch up, but isn't that the point of sitting down for coffee with friends?
Firpo's Diner at 2226 NW 6th St. is the place to go for quaint atmosphere and cheap coffee. This little hole in the wall is a bit too lively for a study session, but it's great for people-watching as you sip your cup of joe.
When there is little time to savor coffee in a peaceful environment, the campus Java Hut provides coffee shop-quality drinks in convenient paper cups, java jacket and all. School becomes so much more bearable after a visit to the friendly campus coffee brewmaster.
No matter where the coffee is served, the gentle aroma wafting from the cup or emanating from the entire shop is a pleasure surpassed by no other beverage. Jonesing java junkies can enjoy a variety of styles and local caffeine havens for mental relaxation and sensory bliss.
Jenny Whittemore
Common Grounds Coffeehouse at 919 W. University Ave. has a name worthy of its atmosphere. People of all ages and walks of life wander into rooms filled with yellow, green and red lights to enjoy the many forms of entertainment and edibles.
For those late-night students who don't need to be surrounded by the comforts of a coffee shop, there are other, more economical options. Denny's, on the corner of 13th Street and West University Avenue, offers free refills on a decent cup of coffee. The price is great compared to the non-refillable cups found at coffee shops, and even if it's not strong enough there's always more on the way.