David Go
Ithaca, New York, is a vibrant college town, home to both Cornell University and Ithaca College. For students, finding the perfect café isn’t just about a caffeine fix; it’s about discovering a sanctuary for studying, a hub for collaboration, or a cozy corner to unwind. From serene spots adorned with plants to bustling bagel shops, Ithaca offers an array of unique coffee experiences tailored to academic life. This guide dives into the top cafés that provide the ideal blend of atmosphere, amenities, and delectable offerings to fuel your student journey in Ithaca.
Botanist Coffeehouse
Botanist Coffeehouse offers a refreshing escape with its unique leafy aesthetic, providing a serene backdrop for studying or unwinding. Beyond exceptional classic espresso drinks, Botanist delights with an array of fresh baked goods and the unexpected charm of flowers and plants for sale, adding to its distinctive atmosphere. Students will appreciate the comfortable setting, ideal for focused work sessions, complemented by free parking and essential amenities like Wi-Fi and accessible facilities. It’s a perfect spot to refuel and find inspiration, whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee to go or settling in for an extended study session. Check their Google Maps page for photos and more details. [0]
Service options
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
Highlights
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ✔ Kids’ menu
Amenities
- ✔ Restroom
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ❌ live music
- ❌ cocktails
- ❌ good for watching sports
Parking
- ✔ Free parking lot
Payments
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ✔ NFC
Press Cafe
Press Cafe stands out as an inviting and affordable haven for students in Ithaca, known for its cozy ambiance and commitment to catering to diverse dietary needs. This coffee shop offers a delightful selection of espresso, various teas, and light bites, with notable vegan and vegetarian options that make it a favorite for health-conscious students. Its inexpensive price level is a significant draw, allowing students to enjoy quality coffee and food without breaking the bank. With available Wi-Fi, outdoor seating for warmer days, and proximity to downtown landmarks, Press Cafe is perfectly situated for study breaks or focused work sessions. Check their Google Maps page for photos and more details. [1]
Service options
- ✔ Delivery
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
Highlights
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
- ✔ Inexpensive price level
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ✔ Vegetarian food
Amenities
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ❌ live music
- ❌ menu for children
- ❌ cocktails
- ❌ good for watching sports
Parking
- ✔ Free street parking
- ✔ Paid street parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Payments
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ✔ NFC
Gimme! Coffee – MLK St.
A true Ithaca institution, Gimme! Coffee on MLK St. offers a comfortable and vibrant atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for students seeking quality coffee and a productive environment. Renowned for roasting its own small-batch beans, this coffeehouse ensures a superior coffee experience, from robust espresso drinks to comforting drip brews. Beyond the coffee, students can enjoy a selection of pastries in a setting designed for both individual study and group gatherings, with Wi-Fi readily available. Its welcoming vibe and commitment to excellent coffee make it an ideal locale for everything from morning caffeine boosts to afternoon study sessions. Check their Google Maps page for photos and more details. [5]
Service options
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
Highlights
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
Amenities
- ✔ Restroom
- ✔ Good for groups
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ❌ live music
- ❌ menu for children
- ❌ cocktails
- ❌ good for watching sports
Parking
- ✔ Free street parking
- ✔ Paid street parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Payments
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ✔ NFC
Forty Weight Coffee Roasters
Forty Weight Coffee Roasters is a gem for students in Ithaca, celebrated for its friendly atmosphere and exceptional coffee roasting. This spot offers a delightful range of espresso drinks, chai, lattes, and an impressive selection of vegan pastries, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. It provides a welcoming and vibrant setting, often featuring live music, which can be a refreshing break from intense study or a stimulating backdrop for collaborative projects. With reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable amenities, and free parking options, Forty Weight Coffee Roasters blends productivity with pleasure, creating an ideal environment for students to enjoy delicious treats while hitting the books. Check their Google Maps page for photos and more details. [4]
Service options
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
Highlights
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
- ✔ Live music
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ✔ Lunch
- ✔ Brunch
- ✔ Kids’ menu
Amenities
- ✔ Restroom
- ✔ Good for children
- ❌ cocktails
- ❌ good for watching sports
- ❌ valet parking
Parking
- ✔ Free parking lot
- ✔ Free street parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
Payments
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ NFC
Ithaca Coffee Company
Ithaca Coffee Company is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a comprehensive hub offering gourmet food, gifts, and an inviting cafe atmosphere perfect for students. Beyond a wide selection of coffee and espresso, they also serve light fare, baked goods, sandwiches, and even beer and wine, making it a versatile spot for any time of day. The presence of Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and an expansive menu ensures students have everything they need for a productive study session or a relaxed social gathering. Its status as a local favorite, combined with its diverse offerings and good for groups amenities, makes it a top choice for students looking for quality and convenience. Check their Google Maps page for photos and more details. [7]
Service options
- ✔ Delivery
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
Highlights
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ✔ Lunch
- ✔ Beer
- ✔ Wine
Amenities
- ✔ Restroom
- ✔ Good for groups
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ❌ live music
- ❌ menu for children
- ❌ cocktails
- ❌ good for watching sports
Parking
- ✔ Free parking lot
- ✔ Free street parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Payments
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ✔ NFC
Collegetown Bagels
As its name suggests, Collegetown Bagels is a cornerstone of student life in Ithaca, offering a vibrant and informal setting that’s always bustling with energy. Famous for its extensive selection of fresh bagels and custom-made sandwiches, it’s an ideal spot for a quick and satisfying meal any time of day. Beyond the delicious food, students can enjoy a variety of coffee, smoothies, and even craft beer, providing options for every preference. With its strong Wi-Fi, ample seating, and a lively atmosphere, it’s perfect for both focused study and casual meet-ups. Its inexpensive price point and long operating hours make it an indispensable resource for students navigating busy academic schedules. Check their Google Maps page for photos and more details. [13]
Service options
- ✔ Delivery
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
Highlights
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
- ✔ Inexpensive price level
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ✔ Lunch
Amenities
- ✔ Restroom
- ❌ live music
Parking
- ✔ Paid street parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payments
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ✔ NFC
Ithaca’s diverse café scene offers an exceptional array of options for students, each with its unique charm and benefits. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil spot for deep study, an energetic environment for group projects, or simply a place to grab a quick, delicious bite between classes, these top cafés provide the perfect blend of essential amenities like Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and an inspiring atmosphere. Explore these local gems and find your next favorite study spot to make your academic journey in Ithaca even more enjoyable and productive.
