COFFEE: Local coffee shop provides an alternative source of caffeine for students.
By Joey Vangsness, Staff Writer
As more and more people look for cute and quirky places to Instagram their food, specialty “Third Wave” coffee shops give them alternatives to stopping at Starbucks for their caffeine fix and accompanying selfie. Third Wave, or “hipster,” coffee shops treat coffee as an artisanal good, supervising every step in production from the beans’ harvest in South America all the way to the baristas’ pouring of a heart in your cappuccino.
One such fancy coffee shop opened in Downtown Riverside last October. Expanding from their first location in Downtown Redlands, Augie’s Coffee Roasters opened next to the Salted Pig on the corner of Main Street and 12th. Located in an area of Riverside where primary attractions are bars and expensive restaurants, Augie’s offers a place where people under 21 can enjoy caffeinated beverages and a friendly atmosphere. This atmosphere is created by the bright open space, amiable employees and walls covered with local artists’ work. Augie’s also serves as a relaxing meeting place for various types of city employees on official business. Local cyclists are a common sight, as Augie’s sponsors the local team Opprimé Cycling. Opprimé member and Poly student Tate Kinsella (11) said “it [was] an honor to have [Augie’s] as an official sponsor because they support [their] team so much—not only with coffee but as a meeting place for rides and hangouts.”
In addition to selling a variety of coffees and teas, Augie’s offers various baked goods from local bakeries and even a separate case full of gluten-free goodies. Patrons can enjoy drinks as straightfoward as a cup of drip coffee or more complicated drinks like a Gibraltar or Lavender Vanilla Latté. And for those who have a sweet tooth, a Parliament Mocha or Caramel Latté is sure to satisfy.
Coffee is an amazing thing, and those who prefer artisan gourmet drinks to the mass produced sugar bombs at Starbucks have a great alternative for getting their fix. So next time you need something to keep you awake during a tough day full of too much homework, go support your local coffeehouse instead of the world-wide chain known for their pumpkin spice additives and cult following of wealthy teenage girls.