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As you settle into college living, the need for a great coffee shop becomes essential. Whether you want to grab a treat between classes or need an obscene amount of caffeine to get through the day, having a favorite coffee shop on hand can be helpful. Fortunately, Ann Arbor has no shortage of options. Here’s a guide to my favorite coffee shops in town, each with its own unique charm and specialty.

Coziest Study Location: M-36 Coffee Roasters Cafe

Located at the corner of South University and East University Avenue, M-36 Coffee Roasters is a go-to spot for students seeking a cozy, productive environment to study. While the shop seems small at first glance, their spacious basement offers plenty of seating for dedicated college students. The basement’s cozy and inviting atmosphere is perfect, especially on those chilly Michigan days. Unlike many coffee shops that ruin the vibe with poor music choices, M-36 always has a great playlist in the background, perfect for background noise while studying. Most importantly, they have a wide selection of treats to load up on throughout your study session. Their coffee menu is impressively diverse, with reliable lattes ranging from your classic vanilla to more unique options like charcoal lattes. Alternatively, they have teas, chais, and a selection of sodas, smoothies, and juices. M-36 also proves to be a reliable place to study with their food options. While you’re studying, access to a quick snack is integral to your success. M-36 has the great options for sandwiches, toasts, and easy-to-grab snacks, allowing a full belly and focused mind. No matter what you’re looking for, M-36 has you covered.

Ideal for Supporting Local Businesses: Argus Farm Stop

Argus Farm Stop, with locations on Packard and Liberty, offers a meaningful and impactful way to enjoy a great cup of coffee while supporting the Ann Arbor community. The cafe serves as the main source of revenue for their grocery stores, which sell products directly from local farmers and small business owners. By selling coffee to college students in residential areas, Argus is able to give 80% of their profits back to local farmers, helping to combat the challenges for farmers and small businesses owners to earn a livable wage. If the ethical benefits of supporting Argus aren’t enough, their coffee options are truly exceptional. They serve some of the best chai in Ann Arbor, and a warm latte from one of their cozy mugs is sure to brighten your day. Most notably, the welcoming atmosphere and sense of community that you feel walking through the door is unchallenged. Whether you’re relaxing in the greenhouse at the Liberty location or sitting at the communal table at Packard, it is clear that love and care goes into every aspect of their business.

Favorite U-M Coffee Shop: UMMA Cafe

The University of Michigan has 22 cafes, grills, and markets across campus, giving students the option to use their dining dollars or blue bucks instead of their hard-earned cash. Attached to the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) is one of the best cafes the university has to offer, the UMMA Cafe. While there are multiple campus cafes, UMMA is my favorite for the quality of their drinks, consistently serving excellent coffees. UMMA is famous for one of their exclusive offerings, the brown sugar latte, which has quickly become a favorite for many. Alternatively, you could grab a cardamom rose latte which provides an earthy, flavorful option. The cafe’s location is also incredibly convenient, nestled next to the Hatcher Graduate Library, Shapiro Undergraduate Library, and Mason Hall. Regardless of where you find yourself on Central Campus, UMMA Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a top-notch drink on campus.

Excellent Option for Non-Coffee Lovers: Lab Cafe

If coffee isn’t your forte, I highly recommend Lab Cafe on Liberty Street. Lab has a wide variety of options on their menu, with a full section dedicated to loose leaf teas, Italian and French cream sodas, and several iced tea options. You can enjoy classic favorites like hot cocoa, matcha, or chai tea. The earthy vibes of the cafe are reflected in its atmosphere, with plenty of plants and artwork that create a cozy environment. Lab is often open later than other coffee shops in the area, with their latest open hour being at 10 p.m. With its close proximity to State Street and late hours, Lab Cafe is definitely worth adding to your radar.

Top Choice Overall: Vertex Coffee Roasters

Vertex Coffee Roasters, located at the far end of South University Avenue, is a charming corner shop that is complete with outdoor seating and a small community library. While you wait for your drink, you can browse their book selection or grab a board game to play with your friends. Though indoor seating can be limited, the experience and quality of their coffee makes up for it. Vertex is known for its high quality coffee, with well-trained baristas that will always deliver with a beautiful coffee. The baristas make each cup as visually appealing as it is delicious, with latte art that tops any other cafe. While their menu is limited, the smaller menu selection ensures that each drink is perfected, consistent, and made with care. From their classic lattes to pour overs and cortados, you can’t go wrong with any of their options. Next time you’re walking past South University Avenue or finding a place to try with your friends, I recommend taking the time to grab a warm cup of coffee at Vertex. You won’t be disappointed.