It’s that time of year again. As the weather cools, the promise of winter break approaches. However, with that assurance comes the looming cloud of finals. What better way to triumph through many late nights of finals week than to venture out into the ambiance of a local coffee shop or restaurant. With convenience, great food, drinks and atmosphere, late-night studying has never been so entertaining.
Students seeking a change from the ho-hum drab of the library should check out local coffee shops. Those who live close to campus can head to the Living Room Café or Café Europe, both within a five-minute drive from San Diego State, and are open until the early hours of the morning. Like most coffee shops, these two establishments have free Wi-Fi, inexpensive and delicious menu items and an all-around friendly environment.
“I like the big mugs of hot chocolate when studying for midterms or finals. The atmosphere is so laid-back. It’s just a great place to go when you want to study or hang out with friends,” journalism sophomore Melissa Buendia said about the Living Room Café.
Students seeking a 24-hour coffee shop should visit Filter Coffee House in Hillcrest. It offers free Wi-Fi, various delectable coffees and desserts, an inviting atmosphere and an interesting array of people with whom to converse. This indie hot spot is the whole package.
Another after-hours study spot worth checking out is Lestat’s Coffee House in Normal Heights. Lestat’s also has a second location in University Heights, known as Lestat’s on Park. This coffee shop is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It offers fair-priced menu items, casual ambiance, live music and free Wi-Fi. The eclectic shop on Adam’s Avenue is also a concert venue with mismatched furniture and indie wall décor. Those wanting to create an adventure from their study time needn’t look any further.
“I really enjoy the overall feel of Lestat’s. It’s the perfect place to go for late-night studying before finals week, especially because there are always plenty of places to sit,” psychology sophomore Taylor Knecht said.
If Lestat’s happens to be too busy as finals approach, Rebecca’s Coffee House in South Park is a convenient option. Open late during the week, and 24 hours from Thursday to Sunday, this place is a quirky alternative to casual coffee stops. With free Wi-Fi, inexpensive prices for awesome food, welcoming service and a relaxing atmosphere, there is no comparison.
“If you happen to be in the area on a Thursday night, check out the open mic night. It is one of the best in San Diego, even rivaling Lestat’s,” frequent performer Luke Henning said.
Just be sure to have cash on hand because Rebecca’s does not accept credit cards.
Students who are not fans of coffee shops, but still want to experience a different atmosphere and a tasty snack while studying late can try Brian’s 24 or Rose’s Donuts. Both establishments are open 24 hours and are highly acclaimed.
Brian’s 24 in the Gaslamp Quarter has free Wi-Fi, a vast array of menu items to choose from, excellent customer service and renowned chicken and waffles. This is definitely a cozy place to study — a home away from home. Brian’s 24 rivals the home-cooked style of IHOP or Denny’s with its classic food options and friendly surroundings.
Rose’s Donuts in Linda Vista is also open all day and night, and is considered by some to be one of the best doughnut shops in San Diego. Those looking for a small, quaint, independently owned shop with free Wi-Fi and delectable, light and fluffy doughnuts should give this place a shot. It is a spot for students looking for a quiet place to study while snacking on a mouthwatering treat.
With so many diverse and lively establishments available to studious night owls, students only need to decide where to spread out their textbooks while determining what kind of coffee would go best with a blueberry muffin.
