Coffee Shops

The atmosphere in a coffee shop has been a long standing social phenomenon. Coffee shops were originally extremely elite. They were places where (mostly men) would go to drink coffee, talk politics, and smoke cigars. Authors used to go to coffee shops in order to meet editors and publishers and talk about the deeper meanings and philosophies of their works. The earliest coffee shops also acted as post offices.

Now, the purpose of the coffee shop has shifted greatly. Each one strives to create a unique atmosphere where both men and women and the hippest of hipsters can drink, dine, listen to music and use wi-fi.

Athens has many coffee shops, each with its own personality and it's a big debate as to which one is the best and for what reason.
The Front Room is located in the student center, is convenient, and one can use his/her "bobcat cash" in order to purchase drink or food instead of cash.
Perks is located on the corner of two main roads in town, kitty corner to two bookstores, serves fair-trade coffee and amazing smoothies with real fruit and yogurt in the spring. Also attached to the coffee shop is a cigar shop, but there is no stage for musicians to perform.
Brenan's serves a large variety of specialty drinks as well as AMAZING sandwiches, but seems to be a prime spot for older adults and frat brats.

Donkey, by far, is my favorite. Free refills, local, well-known employees, and a great location to fill your acoustic music fix. Their muffins are superb.

Photo: I decided to take a study break to consume a cup of dark roast and a delicious muffin from Donkey coffee. The environment to study is ideal. It's comfy and cozy and well lit with quirky little lamps with feet.