Ranking Coffee Spots on Campus

If you are not sure what coffee to try first at University of the Cumberlands, take a look at how I would rank each spot. 

First, and most importantly, the coffee quality. The coffee at the Mid is usually very sweet and milky; it is best for those who are wanting to try coffee for the first time or do not like a strong coffee taste. I would give it three out of five stars. The coffee in the library is generally made a little stronger, with a better coffee flavor, though the ingredients are the same as in the Mid. I would give it four out of five stars. The coffee from the Caf comes out of a cappuccino machine, which means it has a consistent taste, as there is no difference based on who makes it. I would give it four stars. The other coffee in the Caf is from large stainless-steel dispensers. It tastes pretty cheap, so I would say it’s only a two out of five, though I guess you could bump it up to three stars on your own by adding just the right amount of sweetener and milk.

As for the variety of options at each location, the library and the Mid both generally offer a dozen or so different flavors of syrup to add to your coffee, plus four types of milk. I would give their variety of options four stars each. The Caf has two flavor options and no customization options for milk alternatives, etc. I would give it two stars for variety.

Next, the speed, or the time to make the drink plus any lines to wait in. Depending on the time of day, there may be a line for coffee in the Mid or the library, especially right after a class ends. It also takes two or three minutes to get a drink after it is ordered, since the barista has to make it fresh by hand. For that reason, I would give both three stars for speed. There is usually little to no line to get drinks in the Caf, and it does not take long to pour the coffee for yourself. For speed, I would give it four stars. 

Atmosphere can heavily impact the coffee experience. The Mid offers comfortable couches and tables. It is often busy, so it is good for chatting with friends or having background noise while working. I would give it four stars. The library offers a quieter space, while still having booths and tables for those who wish to get some work done while they caffeinate. I would also give it four stars. The cafeteria is perfect for those who want to get some food with their coffee. Large tables can accommodate big groups, or restaurant style booths for smaller groups. The Caf also has outdoor seating options for when the weather is nice. I would give it three stars.

For students on a meal plan, the cost of all coffee is one meal swipe, but for commuters the price differs. Coffee at the Mid and the library costs around $5 for a 16 oz cup, which I would give three stars. It costs around $6 to get into the Caf, so for coffee alone it is about the same. But if you take advantage of the meal options at the Caf as well, it is a lot more affordable. I would give it four stars for affordability. 

That’s a basic overview of our options, and it’s only my opinion. When you get the chance, make sure to try all the different coffee spots at Cumberlands, so you can decide for yourself which is the best!