As the fall semester begins and the Winthrop campus fills with the rush and bustle of students, one constant source of comfort and vibrancy is visiting local coffee shops. A trustworthy neighborhood cafe is more than just a location for college students to satisfy their caffeine addiction—it’s a part of campus life.
Amelie’s French Bakery, located on Main Street, has been serving North and South Carolina since 2008. Each cafe has a unique and whimsical personality that makes a remarkable impression on those who dine there. Whether it be for Instagram pictures, a date night or a quick cup of coffee, students can expect high-quality beverages from this cafe.
For the fall season, Amelie’s rolled out a line of festive pastries and drinks to celebrate the changing weather. One of them is the apple feuillete danish, a layered danish with a spiced apple filling, which is perfect for pairing with a hot pumpkin chai latte. For those who dislike coffee or tea, Amelie’s also offers French cream sodas in a variety of flavors.
Freshman education major Hayden Roberts said, “I love studying at Amelie’s as getting out of the dorm and enjoying a cup of coffee helps me focus. My favorite drink is an iced chai as nowhere else in town makes them as good.”
While their prices are higher than most, they are known for their service and craftsmanship. Amelie’s fall menu for 2023 showcases the cafe’s dedication to culinary quality and seasonal inventiveness.
A hidden gem, the Mercantile’s Jackass Cafe and Wine Bar, located at 153 E White St is a popular spot to pick up dorm decor and grab a cup of coffee in one spot. With extensive seating and a multitude of events, the cafe is the perfect place to study or chat with friends.
Notably, every drink comes with a handwritten encouraging note or compliment, which puts smiles on many customers’ faces. The barista was eager to recommend drinks and pastries on their fall menu. With spiced apple chais, pumpkin cold brews and pumpkin swirl loaves, there is something for every autumn craving on the menu.
“I cannot believe it took me so long to discover Jackass Cafe, but it is going to be my new go-to spot now. I love how they always write sweet messages on my cups,” said English major Sophia Moore.
Knowledge Perk Coffee Roasters is a unique coffee shop as they roast their own beans and host pop-up demonstrations and sampling events. Located on 130 W White St, a mere five minutes from campus, their mission is surrounded by coffee innovation.
Featured on their fall drink menu are a maple bourbon latte, brown sugar cinnamon shaker and pumpkin pie latte. They offer flights of their seasonal beverages for indecisive or adventurous coffee drinkers.
With numerous seating options and an open floor plan, Knowledge Perk provides the perfect ambiance for study sessions or weekend get-togethers. Students can stop by and grab a quick cup of coffee or buy a bag of beans to bring back to brew in their dorm.
