Elemental Coffee
815 N. Hudson
604-9766
With its modern, sleek design, this coffeehouse is great for many reasons. Come and study, bask in the delicious and always fresh-roasted aroma permeating the space, or simply enjoy an espresso or cup of hot tea. Pick up a bag of beans to take home or keep at the office. If you need a little guidance, just ask a capable barista how to get started with a grinder or press, which you can purchase on-site.
Gray Owl Coffee
223 E. Main, Norman
701-2929
This stop in Norman is the perfect escape from the crowded campus or for an afternoon away from the office. If you’ve got a little while, enjoy the baked treats that range from croissants to brownies, depending on the day. Follow Gray Owl on Twitter at @grayowlcoffee for updates.
Coffee Slingers
1015 N. Broadway
606-2763
Every Wednesday you’ll find this coffee house roasting its beans to ensure that what you get is fresh. Located in Automobile Alley, this spot has been featured on foodandwine.com, as well as travelandleisure.com. Whether you try the French press or a cold brew, you won’t be disappointed. If you’re curious about coffee culture, sign up to participate in upcoming classes at Slingers. More information is available at coffeeslingers.com.
All About Cha
3272 s. Broadway, Edmond
340-9959
This coffee and tea stop offers plenty of seating, and it’s set up to accommodate students who might need a place to study or a group meet-up. Indulge in one of its many teas, which you can get in a pot or by the cup, as well as hot coffee. If you plan to stick around, try one of the decadent treats in the front case.
The Red Cup
3122 N. Classen Blvd.
525-3430
It used to be a private house, now it’s a house that operates as a coffeehouse and lunch spot. The funky, eclectic feel comes from art that hangs on the walls, and it’s a good place to find inspiration for any creative project you might have before you. Vegetarians and vegans will be especially pleased by the menu. This is the perfect place to study or knock out a few chapters in a good book.
T, an urban teahouse
7518 N. May
418-4333
Whether you are stopping in for a cup to go, grabbing a tin of your favorite loose-leaf blend, or enjoying the everchanging art donning the walls, this teahouse is a delightful part of any day. If you don’t know much about tea, just ask the people behind the counter; they’ll get you started with your own infuser, as well as equip you with other tea knowledge important for creating the perfect cup at home.
The Beatnix Cafe
136 N.W. 13th
604-0211
Have you tried the yerba mate? Proprietor Dave Filkins says it’s the best iced energy drink in town, and it packs a whopping 24 vitamins and minerals. While you’re sipping that, enjoy the free Wi-Fi and get some work done. Treat yourself to lunch when you’re finished, as it offers a variety of tasty sandwiches and wraps.
Photos by Shannon Cornman, Mark Hancock and Jordan Ensminger
This article appears in Jul 11-17, 2012.