Peet’s offers more than just mornings of freshly brewed coffee and midday pick-me-ups – it offers connection. Whether stopping by for a morning latte or an afternoon açaí bowl, students rely on Peet’s not just for its menu but also for its welcoming atmosphere. The employees witness this sense of connection firsthand.
Wilfredo Vargus, a dedicated Peet’s employee, shares that mornings revolve around coffee, while afternoons bring a wave of students craving açaí bowls. “I think Peet’s is great because of the açaí. Most of the students love açaí,” he says. Vargus enjoys engaging with students and counts an iced mocha latte as his personal favorite item at Peet’s.
Karla Alicea, another devoted Peet’s employee, echoes this sentiment. “My favorite part of working here is the students,” she shares. She believes Peet’s should stay on campus because it offers something unique. “It’s different from the other two coffee shops because of the açaí bowls.” Her go-to drink? A hazelnut mocha latte.
Beyond the menu, Peet’s holds a prime location, serving as a central hub between other campus coffee spots, on top of the fact that it’s located in the library. Its accessibility makes it a convenient stop for students rushing in between classes or settling in to study at the library or café. Unlike Starbucks and Dunkin’, which are often crowded, Peet’s fosters a sense of community. Students chat with baristas, catch up with friends and unwind in a relaxing environment.
The menu of Peet’s reflects the diverse preferences of the student body. While many rely on Peet’s for the morning caffeine fix, others often visit for the food options. The açaí bowls have become a signature item, offering a fresh and healthy alternative to the typical pastries and snacks found at other coffee shops. This addition ensures that Peet’s appeals to a wider range of students, whether they are looking for a nutritious snack, refreshing tea or flavorful coffee.
The quality of Peet’s espresso sets it apart from larger chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’, offering a richer and smoother taste. One of my personal favorites is the Blushing Iced Latte with oat milk. Made with strawberry purée, it is the perfect balance of creamy and sweet – unlike anything you would find at a typical chain. It is drinks like these that make Peet’s stand out, offering creative and refreshing options that keep students and faculty coming back for more.
Peet’s also stands out in terms of quality ingredients. The oat milk used in drinks is preferred over other options. Junior Giovanna Kalin shares, “It has a creamier texture but still feels light in my drink! It also doesn’t overpower the other flavors in a latte, like espresso or the syrup.” Additionally, Peets uses Monin syrup, which emphasizes natural ingredients. Many of its products are free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, as well as being non-GMO. This makes Peet’s a better choice than larger coffee chains, which often prioritize cost-cutting over ingredient quality.
Peet’s has become ingrained in daily campus life. It is a place where students begin their mornings, unwind in the afternoons and share conversations between busy schedules. With its central location, high-quality drinks and unique menu options, Peet’s plays an irreplaceable role in student life. Additionally, the closest off-campus Peet’s location is in Brooklyn, NY, making it far less accessible for students who want their Peet’s favorites. Keeping Peet’s on campus is not just about convenience – it’s about preserving a space where students feel at home.
Leave a Reply