Whether it’s the laid-back atmosphere, the hum of espresso machines, or mass amounts of caffeine at your fingertips, there’s just a certain je ne sais quoi about coffee shops. No matter if it's students, business professionals, or family from out of town, the coffee shops see droves of people every day, so it's key to know which are the best and worth your time. I’ll count down from the average Cup of Joe to the real gems of Tallahassee that’ll save you time and money on your next coffee run.

8. Dunkin' Donuts: Fast, sweet, and cheap coffee

I’ve always been more of a Starbucks person myself, but in a pinch, Dunkin' can get the job done. Their coffee’s cheap, especially for an iced coffee, comes pretty sweet to begin with, so no doctoring needed, and is pretty fast, given it is all machine based. One bonus perk of Dunkin' is the yummy doughnuts that stare back at you as you order your coffee. Overall, it’s nothing special, and frankly there are better places, but it’ll do if you’re in a hurry or don’t mind the sacrifice in ambiance for a more fast food vibe.

7. Maple Street Biscuit Company: Great ambiance, amazing food, but only a handful of coffee types

Maple Street is arguably one of the best things to come to Tallahassee and is a suitable replacement for the Atomic Coffee we all knew and loved. They have some of the most delicious food you’ll have and the staff is always so welcoming. But let's face it, it’s not a coffee place. If you go here wanting a Cup of Joe, be prepared to spend way more than you should for only a fraction of the taste as some of the places higher on this list. The sizes are small, well overpriced, and come from a limited selection. This is the place to go for amazing down-home breakfast food, but be wary of their coffee.

6. Einstein’s: Cheap coffee, solid taste, and great bagels

I tried to steer clear of any on-campus places, however, Einstein’s really stands out as the best place to grab a quick, delicious, and more importantly cheap iced coffee. The rest of the selection on coffee is pretty good, but nothing really to stand out, other than the hot chocolate being a lifesaver on early morning chills in the winter. The plain coffee itself is good and is something that is perfect for any time of day. The bagels are delicious and added with either butter or shmear; they make a great cheap breakfast for anyone. Overall Einstein’s is a good choice no matter what the need and can really help lessen the blow on your wallet.

5. Brooklyn Water Bagels: Decent food, often extremely crowded, but good iced coffee

While I have had their food and it is pretty good, what stood out most to me here was the iced coffee ice cubes. I like the idea that, no matter which way I look at it, I’m never being ‘slighted’ due to ice and I don’t have to worry about my coffee being watered down. The food is decent but the one major drawback I have for this place is the crowds. The many times I have been there, the line has been similar to that of a ride at Disney or Universal, and there are never any places to sit. The coffee itself is quite bitter and needs some heavy doctoring to make it sweet due to the large size. However, I will say that if you aren’t opposed to waiting around 20-ish minutes, like strong bitter coffee, and are cool with tons of people, this is the place for you.

4. The Lucky Goat: For the pickier coffee drinker willing to drive some

For those that like the ‘experience’ of a coffee shop, The Lucky Goat is a gem you must try. The coffee is superb, as well as the pastries, the staff gives a friendly vibe, and the lounge area and tasting room are pretty relaxing. I will warn that the coffee from small places like this is stronger than larger companies make; think getting a Quad Latte at Starbucks. Oftentimes smaller places are more generous with their espresso beans, so don’t be surprised if your coffee is much stronger than you’re used to. Over that little road bump comes the main drawback to The Lucky Goat, and that’s its location. Located way down on Capital Circle NE across from the jail, The Lucky Goat takes some commitment to get to, and for those closer to the capital building, it’s a short trek just for coffee. Overall, if you truly value atmosphere and need an extra kick in your coffee, The Lucky Goat is worth the drive to try out.

3. Starbucks: Old Faithful

A tried and true favorite that nearly everyone frequents. This coffee powerhouse has great drinks and okay food, given that their main kick is coffee. They are usually on every corner and are open very early and until very late. The café areas (depending on if the store has been renovated or is new) are cozy and full of outlets and usually pretty clean. The staff is varying on friendliness, but I recommend giving them the benefit of the doubt, given the patrons that frequent the stores are often very rude and demanding (speaking from experience). I wouldn’t recommend getting food here, since it is overpriced and not worth the money. If you get a chance to try out the Clover machine at the location on Tennessee and Copeland, it is worth the small splurge in money. The Clover makes a more full-bodied coffee that is unlike anything else they serve.

2. Black Dog Cafe: Delicious coffee, laid-back vibe, beautiful view

Coming in at number two is Black Dog Café, a small café with two locations: one at Railroad Square and the more popular Lake Ella local. This small gem is truly diamond in the rough with its laid-back vibe, great locations, and to-die-for local coffee. Its worth a visit on the weekend to see the WiFi turned off to promote conversation, however, at this time, I suggest going to the friendlier location of Railroad Square. The coffee is reasonably priced and offers some unique flavors like the Duel Spire Latte or the Black Dog blended drink. Another perk is the late hours, which make it a lifesaver when working late at night on homework or a project and not having to sacrifice flavor due to time. Overall, The Black Dog is well worth multiple visits and has the making of easily moving to anyone’s favorite coffee hang out. If you want the stereotypical coffee place, The Black Dog is for you.

1. Catalina Café: The perfect mix of great coffee and a welcoming vibe

Easily taking the place of number one, Catalina café has no drawbacks after the location on Gaines opened.The staff is friendly, helpful, and laid-back. They offer cozy chairs, cups for water, and fast WiFi, making it hard to leave once you’ve sat down. The Gaines location offers a beautiful mural and a very hipster steampunk vibe to help set the ambiance. While sitting and enjoying one of the amazing cups of coffee, you can feel time melt away. The coffee is made right in front of you, so while it comes a little slow sometimes, you see that they take their time to make sure your cup is perfect for you. With tons of flavors and even offering almond milk for those who are lactose intolerant or watching their figure, Catalina spares no expense for their customers. While the prices are mildly higher for certain drinks, the extra is well worth the kick you’ll get from the coffee and the taste that you’ll have left over from well-made coffee. If you haven’t tried this gem yet, I highly recommend stopping by and seeing for yourself!

Honorable Mentions:

The Powerplant

All Saints Café

Eternal Ground

Redeye Coffee

Chick-Fil-a

Brewd Awakening