The struggle: finding a personal haven to study, socialize, and simply live life. The solution: The Coffee Shop, on the corner of Ray and Higley. Stepping in through glass double doors, you are greeted by a cluster of tables and chairs, a constant chatter, and the light hum of music. This creates a unique atmosphere to express oneself; yet it’s the food and beverages that truly keep the customers scattered throughout the spacious room. A variety of cravings can be easily satisfied at The Coffee Shop, offering an array of sandwiches, omelettes, breakfast burritos, pastries, and yes, to everyone’s surprise, coffee.

Their most popular dishes consist of the TCS Waffle ($5.95) and the California Club ($8.75). The California Club is a sandwich ideal for a sunny afternoon; layered with turkey, avocado, bacon, pepper jack cheese, and mayo, bread options stretch from sour dough to croissants. The TCS Waffle is a simple, traditional waffle that brings you back to your mornings as a child, summoning the delight of a fresh, homemade waffle. Vegan and vegetarian foods are also offered to serve a diverse group of hungry teenagers and adults. The Spanish Latte ($3.20 – $4.10)  is the perfect coffee to get you through the day–made with sweetened milk and a few shots of espresso, this drink will help to keep your spirits high and your taste buds content.

Though The Coffee Shop does provide many delectable options, cupcakes are their true specialty. In June of 2010, Jessica Cuff and Jenna Flowers, both bakers and part-owners,  were the winners of Cupcake Wars on Food Network. They ended up bringing home $10 thousand and were given the privilege of serving their cupcakes at the 100th Anniversary of Ace of Cupcakes, a cupcake shop located in Baltimore, Maryland.

The ability to entertain a large amount of people with seating both inside and out is The Coffee Shop’s largest asset–whether you like to lean back against a tree covered in amber leaves or curl up on a worn couch, practically every option is made available. Inside the shop, rustic pictures adorn the walls as light seeps through the wall-encompassing windows. Yet their patio creates a different, peaceful vibe: rose bushes, and trees populate the ground as birds perch among the branches.

The Coffee Shop is the result of the seamless entwinement of an inspiring atmosphere and delicious food.