Demi DeHerrera
via Unsplash
Looking for a place to study or hang out with friends? Looking for a good cup of sweet caffeine? We’ve got you covered. Here are a few of our favorite local coffee spots, all within a short drive!
Eli’s Coffee
Eli’s Coffee Shop, well known in central Illinois has multiple locations, Morton, Tremont, and Metamora. Along with its delightful scenery, it not only has coffee, but many sweet treats and goods to try. Their menu changes with the season and opens up a variety for customers. A personal favorite off their menu that is a definite must, would be their lavender chai. Eli’s is open Monday thru Saturday 6 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sundays 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Revive Coffee & Roasting Company
Revive Coffee is a new rising coffee shop located in Goodfield, IL. It’s open from 6a.m. to 3p.m. Monday thru Saturday. This spot is easily recognizable, with its hand-drawn mural on the side of the building. The thing that makes them unique is their connection with faith by writing Bible verses on their cups to spread the word to customers. Be sure to view their fall menu, many different drinks to try. If coffee is not your cup of tea, don’t worry Revive also has a food menu. This contains baked goods, sandwiches, avocado toast, salads, and more! Follow Revive on their Instagram! @revive_roasting
Faire Coffee
You come across Faire Coffee in Washington and Eureka, Illinois. Eureka’s location has a gorgeous view of the court house. While Washington’s Faire Coffee is on the Square along with many boutiques and activities to do. Faire Coffee takes pride in their customer service and quality in their products. They also offer a wide variety of seasonal drink options that keep their menu fresh and exciting. Hours: Monday thru Saturday, 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Zion Coffee Bar
Zion Coffee Bar is THE study spot, offering a calm and welcoming atmosphere with seating both upstairs and downstairs. Its clean design and greenery create a refreshing space that’s perfect for staying focused, whether you’re studying, working, or just enjoying coffee. Located in Peoria, IL, Zion is open every day of the week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.–making it the ideal place to settle in, stay productive, and enjoy your favorite brew.
El Mirador en El Rio
El Mirador en El Rio is a new hidden gem coffee shop and Latin American Bistro bar located in downtown Peoria. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with an assortment of fresh-made pastries that leave customers in awe. The space is picture-worthy all around, featuring a stunning Japanese blossom tree as its centerpiece. All of their drinks come in custom bottles, adding a unique touch to every order, and specialties like 3D fruit creations and matcha make the menu stand out. They’re open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday from 10 a.m., Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Dar Al-Coffee
Dar Al-Coffee, located in Peoria, IL, is best known for their signature Dubai chocolate strawberries and five-star customer service. Their menu is filled with trending treats that everyone is talking about, including the Strawberry Shortcake Latte, Pistachio Nutella Waffle, and Dubai Rose. Whether you’re in the mood for coffee, desserts, or something new and unique, Dar Al-Coffee has something special to offer. They’re hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 7 a.m to 11 p.m. (A note from the advisor: this is my favorite of all time, actually! – Ms. Hammond)
The Blend Cafe
The Blend Cafe, located in Washington, IL, has been serving the community since 2007 with the slogan, “Where coffee and community come together.” Known for its welcoming atmosphere the café also offers a “Fireside Room” available for room rentals, perfect for gatherings or events. Guests can enjoy signature drinks that change with the seasons, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Hours are Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Recreation Coffee
Recreation Coffee, located in Bloomington, IL, is a unique cafe experience tucked inside a local bike shop. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., this treasured spot offers a diverse environment for all. Their menu features standout drinks like the Blueberry Crumble Latte, along with a wide variety of matchas to try. Don’t miss their must-try cannolis, which pair perfectly with any drink. For updates and more, be sure to follow them on Instagram @recreation.coffee.
Coffee Connection
Coffee Connection, located in downtown Pekin, IL, is a cozy cafe with a vintage vibe and a colorful mural that makes it a local favorite. More than just coffee and smoothies, they also serve Lotus energy drinks in a wide variety of flavors, giving customers plenty of options to choose from. Open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., it’s the perfect spot to grab a boost any day of the week.
Reference Coffee
Reference Coffee in East Peoria, IL, offers a modern interior filled with plants that create a refreshing and inviting space. Open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. Alongside their delicious drinks, they serve must-try cookies and pastries, and they also sell a wide variety of merchandise like sweatshirts and shirts. The owners strive to create a space where customers can slow down, savor their coffee, and enjoy the moment–because to them, coffee isn’t just a beverage, it’s an experience.
Intuition Coffee & Juice
Intuition Coffee & Juice is nestled in a standout corner building Peoria, IL. Open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. and weekends from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., it features much more than just coffee. Guests can join classes to learn about brewing, enjoy free tastings, or stop by the fresh juice bar. For kids, the Miel Milk with honey, cinnamon, and house-made cashew milk is a favorite. Non-coffee drinks can choose from juice smoothies and nutrient-packed juice shots. The food menu highlights yogurt bowls, salads, toasts, and acai bowls–the Apple of My Pie Toast being a must. With unique coffee beans to purchase, chocolates, and plenty of variety, Intuition Coffee & Juice truly brings something for everyone–so be sure to stop in when you can!
Whatever you’re studying, isn’t it best to do it with a little treat? Stop into one of these local favorites for the best experience, and let us know your thoughts
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