Olympia and Granby Mills Apartments have always been a favorite when it comes to student housing in Columbia, and now a top-notch coffee shop is the latest amenity offered at the complex.    

Mills Café opened Oct. 27 and is located in the lobby of Olympia- where the one, three, and four-bedroom units are found. It matches the historical charm of The Mills with its 20-foot bar made of reclaimed wood.      

While it matches the old, Mills Café certainly doesn't leave out the new. There is free Wi-Fi and every two feet of the bar features USB smart outlets, making it the perfect study spot close to home. The lobby where the Café is located has also been upgraded with huge 80-inch flat screen televisions and other aesthetics.      

Mills Café drink menu includes coffee options such as lattes and frappuccinos. In addition, the café also offers food selections. Customers can look forward to a breakfast menu, a light lunch menu and a late night menu for those exam-cramming occasions.           

Mills Café is part of the 12-month process of overhauling amenities at The Mills. The fitness center has been redone and is now offering exercise classes such as CrossFit, yoga and boot camp. The famous Olympia-Granby pool has increased its deck size by about 3,000 square feet. The Mills have also created a brand new parking lot that offers about 250 more spaces in response to resident parking concerns.     

What’s still coming? 612 Whaley Street is in its final stage of construction. The luxury apartments will consist predominately of one and two-bedroom units with stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops. On the ground floor of the building, there will be about 6,500 square feet of retail space, which will offer residents of The Mills and the general public even more dining options. There are currently model units available to walk through if you want to see just how gorgeous the complex will be.      

It’s refreshing to see apartments such as The Mills actively trying to maintain a good relationship with USC’s student body, and I believe they are excelling. If you are looking for a new place to study and a good cup of coffee, I definitely recommend Mills Café.