Even with how lovely our campus is for studying, we all need a coffee shop at some point. Between studying for exams, clinical rotations, and spending long hours on campus each day, finding a good coffee shop can make those busy days a little easier.
As a self-proclaimed coffee snob, I checked out some of the coffee shops near campus and wanted to make this helpful guide for you all! I rated each of them on the things that matter most to grad students: study-ability, quality of the coffee, and convenience. Whether you need a quiet place to knock out a few hours of studying or just want a solid cup of coffee before class or clinicals, this guide should help you find your new go-to spot.
Lion & Lamb Coffee Roasters
2801 N Brea Blvd, Building C, Fullerton CA 92815
study-ability: 4.5/5
quality of coffee: 4/5
convenience: 4.5/5
Starting off strong, Lion & Lamb Coffee Roasters is a newer coffee shop in the Fullerton area that serves up some really delicious specialty drinks. I always like to get something off their seasonal menu because they come up with really cool concoctions! The ambience of this place is very peaceful, with many small side tables and one large dining style table that’s great for studying with a group. There is outlet accessible at some of the side tables. The additional parking structure right outside is also a plus. I would say the only downside to this place is that it can get pretty full, and that it closes pretty early at 3 PM most days. However, it’s a great spot for an early study session before exams, a quick pick me up around lunchtime, or to spend the day at on a weekend.
Bag of Cakes
1964 N Placentia Ave, Fullerton, CA 92831
study-ability: 2/5
quality of coffee: 4.5/5
convenience: 4/5
Bag of Cakes is a fan favorite Matcha for MBKU students according to a library whiteboard survey, lol! All of their Matcha flavors are delicious, and the coffee is also very solid with a ton of different options to choose from. This is a great place to stop by when you’re also feeling a little snack-y, because they have many sweet and savory pastry options to choose from! While this coffee shop is delicious and very close to our campus, I would say it’s not the best place to study because they have a lack of tables. Although, definitely give it a try when you need a little extra caffeine.
Habibi’s
2720 Nutwood Ave, Ste B, Fullerton, CA 92831
study-ability: 3.5/5
quality of coffee: 5/5
convenience: 4/5
Habibi’s Cafe is a great coffee shop option only about five minutes away from campus! This coffee shop specializes in making specialty drinks that incorporate Middle Eastern flavors. I would definitely recommend their Fig Vanilla Matcha or their Toasted Butter Date Latte! Like some of the other places with great drinks, this shop only has about four or five tables, but if you’re able to grab one, they do have very comfy seats! Plus, there is some additional seating outside. Also, if you get hungry while studying, their food is very tasty and unique. There is a good amount of parking outside, so don’t hesitate to stop by.
Chase Coffee Roasters
2736 Nutwood Ave, Suite D, Fullerton, Ca 92831
study-ability: 4.5/5
quality of coffee: 4/5
convenience: 4/5
Literally one building down from Habibi’s is Chase Coffee Roasters. This coffee shop has a special place in my heart because its mission is to create job opportunities and promote inclusion for those with disabilities. Their staff is an absolute pleasure to interact with, plus they make an absolutely outstanding Spanish Latte! This shop has ample seating, great sunlight, and a peaceful ambience great for studying! This place shares a parking lot with Habibi’s, and I’ve never had an issue finding a parking spot there.
Sip & Savor
106 W Wilshire Ave, Fullerton, CA 92832
study-ability: 4/5
quality of coffee: 3.75/5
convenience: 3/5
Sip & Savor is located in Downtown Fullerton and is always a good choice when you want to get a little further from campus. Both their Matcha and coffee are very solid and customizable. This place can get pretty busy, but overall, there is a good amount of seating. There are also some outlets available against the wall. When it comes to downtown Fullerton, parking can be quite a challenge. That’s what I would say is the biggest downside about the shop but always try to park in the lot directly behind it! I’ve had luck there. Additionally, they close at 7 PM most nights, so it gives you a few more extra hours of study time when you need it.
Made Coffee
107 W Amerige Ave, Fullerton, CA, 92832
study-ability: 3/5
quality of coffee: 5/5
convenience: 2.5/5
Also located in downtown Fullerton is Made Coffee. If you are a cold foam fan, I would definitely recommend this place! Plus, they have some incredible specialty drinks. They’re opened till 6 PM each night so it gives you, so you can either pick a drink up before school or after school depending on what kind of day it is. However, the inside seating area is quite small in the parking around. The shop is mostly street parking. However, if you’re able to come in and grab a spot, you won’t regret it!
Vivot Craft Café
115 E Commonwealth Ave Unit A, Fullerton, CA 92832
study-ability: 3.75/5
quality of coffee: 4.5/5
convenience: 3/5
Vivot Craft Cafe, also located in Downtown Fullerton, is a great place for non-coffee drinkers. They specialize in iced teas and tea lattes. My friends are a big fan of their strawberry Matcha, but I personally think their mango Matcha is to die for. Again., parking can be quite a challenge in downtown Fullerton, but there is a lot directly behind this café! Plus, there is a good number of tables scattered across the shop! Also, if you need to stay up late to study, this place closes at 11 PM or midnight some nights!
I hope you find this helpful! Happy studying and caffeinating.