Tis’ the season for Christmas music, twinkly lights, and a peppermint mocha.

However, delicious, steamy peppermint mocha season signals late-night cram sessions for final exams. What better than staking out a study spot to cushion the stress and tears of the end of the semester?

Downtown Phoenix offers an array of options for study hubs, and the Coronado has recently risen to the top of that list.

After visiting the eco-conscious, liberal, coffee bar that is the Coronado, I was hooked. Located on Seventh street and Monroe, the Coronado appears to blend in well with the gentrified neighborhood.

However, once stepping foot within the place, it takes on a whole other vibe. It smells of fresh-brewed coffee and looks like the inside of Woody Allen’s mind.

The staffing is beyond friendly, the decor is impeccable, and the playlist is like one “Cigarettes After Sex” song after another.   

I was expecting some sort of pitfall after a great first impression. Was the food bland, and the only way they could compensate was by installing a quirky fireplace?

Definitely not.

The menu is simple, but delicious. They provide all-day breakfast (yes please) and a varied lunch and dinner menu. Their most popular food item has to be their deep-fried cauliflower tacos; however, their less famous dishes are wonderful as well. My personal favorite has to be the breakfast sandwich, a flaky biscuit with tofu, tomato, and the house sauce.

The food might be off-putting to some because it is free of meat, and anything can be made vegan. My omnivore parents could not even taste a difference; they now suggest brunch at the Coronado once a week.  

What makes the Coronado ideal for a new study date location?

It’s now open until midnight.

The owners recently decided to extend the hours from ten o’clock until twelve o’clock. If an essay is due at 11:59 to turnitin.com, it can now be done with a hot cup of joe in one hand and a fresh vegan pastry in the other.

What makes the Coronado so unique is not one outstanding quality, but an accumulation of great food, great music and a great atmosphere.