There’s always a good reason to get off campus, whether you’re a first-year, Take 5, or somewhere in between. Oftentimes, that quest comes with a particular desire: concentrated caffeine, a cozy working space, and an out-on-the-town treat that’ll brighten your day but won’t break the bank.
Without a car, getting off campus and to your next favorite hang-out spot can be daunting, leaving students like us feeling distanced from the city we live and learn in. Even with transportation, sometimes you just don’t know where to go.
Thus, to accompany your next trip off campus, below is a guide of Rochester cafes within close walking distance to the Orange and Red shuttle lines. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing place to lounge, an all-day space to study, or just a quick beverage, there will certainly be a spot for you.
Equal Grounds Community Cafe
Located just off Gregory & South on the Orange Line, we find our first stop at Equal Grounds Community Cafe. A Black-owned business and LGBTQ+ inclusive space, Equal Grounds is incredibly cozy with colorful flags hanging from the ceiling and tables large enough to fit both your laptop and notebook. With free Wi-Fi, board games at the ready, and a seasonally-adapted (and moderately priced) menu of drinks, bakery treats, and breakfast/lunch items, it’s the perfect place for your next study session or hangout with friends. If you’re a night owl, their extended hours from Tuesday to Thursday can keep you out of the house and out on the town until 9 p.m., also making it a sweet spot for an evening date.
Location: 750 South Ave.
Hours: Mon & Fri (7 a.m.-6 p.m.), Tues-Thurs (7 a.m.-9 p.m.), Sat-Sun (8 a.m.-6 p.m.)
Nearest Shuttle Stop: Gregory & South (Orange Line)
Perks: Free Wi-Fi, all day menu, happy hour, special events board games
Menu Recommendation: Specialty tea lattes
Boulder Coffee Co. Cafe and Lounge
Just down the block from the Orange Line’s South & Alexander stop, you’ll find Boulder Coffee Co. Cafe and Lounge: a muraled brick building flush with chalkboards, chatter, and coffee inside. Split between two seating rooms, the cafe’s ample space and abundance of sunlight makes it a wonderful space for an all day expedition alone or with friends, assisted by a robust menu and plethora of beverages — caffeinated or otherwise. If you’re there for the evening, check out their 5-7 p.m. happy hour and stick around for their pop-up shows from local musicians and other community art events.
Location: 100 Alexander St.
Hours: Mon-Fri (7 a.m.-8 p.m.), Sat (8 a.m.-8 p.m.), Sun (8 a.m.-7 p.m.)
Nearest Shuttle Stop: South & Alexander (Orange Line)
Perks: Free Wi-Fi, all-day menu, happy hour, special events
Menu Recommendation: Frozen chai, any bagel sandwich
Albunn Coffee House
Albunn is a Yemeni coffee shop and cafe that opened this past June and is located right off of the East & Alexander Orange Line stop. Along with their warmly spiced lattes and organic coffee drinks, the menu sports a variety of matchas, traditional Yemeni Drinks, and decadent desserts such as cheesecake and affogatos. With a modern marbled interior, free Wi-Fi, and hours until 12 a.m., Albunn is a great space to meet friends, grab a bite, and get some work done late into the evening.
Location: 333 East Ave
Hours: Mon-Fri (7 a.m.-12 a.m.), Sat-Sun (8 a.m.-12 a.m.)
Nearest Shuttle Stop: East & Alexander (Orange Line)
Perks: Free Wi-Fi, late hours
Menu Recommendation: Albunn latte
Java’s Cafe
Listen, if you haven’t heard of Java’s yet, this certainly won’t be your only introduction. Located right next to the Eastman School of Music, and open till 11 p.m. (12 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays), Java’s is a short slice of heaven if you end up hungry — or tired — or bored — while downtown. With coffees and teas on an endless drip, a delicious selection of sweet and savory pastries, and scrumptious sandwiches offered around lunchtime all days except Sunday, you’ll find something that fits your fancy. If you’re not feeling hungry (or tired or bored) and are simply looking for a place to hang out, the shop’s warm ambience, stacks of magazines, and pool table provide plenty of entertainment. Even if you don’t find your way to Java’s, Java’s will find its way to you. Trust.
Location: 16 Gibbs St.
Hours: Sun-Thurs (7 a.m.-11 p.m.), Fri-Sat (7 a.m.-12 a.m.)
Nearest Shuttle Stop: Eastman Living Center (Orange Line/Red Line)
Perks: Free Wi-Fi, all day menu, outdoor seating, late hours
Menu Recommendation: $3 tea, lemon tart
Ugly Duck Coffee
Located snugly between the Orange Line’s Memorial Art Gallery and East & Alexander stops, Ugly Duck Coffee is a tiny yet mighty cafe with strong espresso, phenomenal pastries, and a relaxing ambience. While their absence of Wi-Fi makes it a less-than-ideal spot to set up shop with a laptop, use it as a sign to disconnect: chat with a friend, read a book, or simply people watch as you sip on your beverage of choice. Gossip about it. Get a baked good provided by Black Cat Baking Co. There’s no judgement. Regardless, if you’re in the area and looking for a quick drink or treat, Ugly Duck is a pretty sweet place to go.
Location: 89 Charlotte St.
Hours: Mon-Fri (7 a.m.-5 p.m.), Sat-Sun (8 a.m.-5 p.m.)
Nearest Shuttle Stop: East & Alexander (Orange Line), Eastman Living Center (Orange Line/Red Line)
Perks: Outdoor seating
Menu Recommendation: The Snug (espresso beverage), ginger scone (or any rotating pastry)
Honorary Mentions:
These locations are a bit further from UR shuttle stops, however are certainly worth trying if you’re able to get in the area:
- Fuego Coffee (1 Woodbury Blvd)
- The Acorn Exchange (65 S Clinton Ave)
- Hydra Coffeehouse (701 Monroe Ave)
- Clownboy Coffee (1978 E Main St)
- Village Bakery (145 Culver Rd)
Happy sipping to all!
