It’s a wonder why I’ve never done a coffee article, considering there’s enough coffee shops in Hoboken to caffeinate a small army.
In my time as a coffee drinker, I’ve had my fair share of espresso drinks and afternoon cold brews. Back in the day, I fueled up on early 2010s frappuccinos with Lisa Frank-esque color schemes. Think flavors like caramel apple and cotton candy blended milkshake-thick and topped with Everest-high whipped cream. I like to think I’ve expanded my palette, but I’m still a sucker for a high-voltage, high-impact beverage. Here in the mile square, I have a couple go-to coffee favorites.
Like any Stevens student, I’m no stranger to the tried-and-true Jefferson’s on 5th and Washington Street. I was a weekly visitor last semester with a penchant for asking the barista to “get creative” with my free drink from a full punch card. But my absolute favorite from here is the pistachio latte. I became addicted to them when they were the seasonal Starbucks drink last February and love being able to get them year round.
Pistachio fans will also feel right at home at Cafe Vista, the cutest coffee shop in west Hoboken. They have an amazing atmosphere with vintage-inspired decor and pink accent walls that can only be described as fabulous. However, it’s the lattes that really shine. If you’re a sucker like me for extra toppings on your coffee (the devil is in the details, am I right?) then you’ll fall in love with the tiny bits of sprinkled-on pistachio. My personal hero, pastry chef Claire Saffitz, once said that all great treats should be topped with a delectable hint to the flavor inside. Cafe Vista’s specialty drinks hold true.
In the early days of the pandemic, I was running off cold brew from the Roost Outpost. It’s always perfectly strong and ice cold, great for long days of studying. For more indulgent days, the spicy mocha and honey almond latte are delectable. The cafe also has a super comfy seating area that’s perfect for getting work done or talking with friends. Also be sure to try the pastries; my favorites have been a spicy cheese danish and a coconut eggnog donut.
Mojo Coffee Company is another great stop for the cold brew die-hards out there. Their signature drink is a vanilla variety that provides extra flavor without being too sweet. It’s the perfect switch-up for when you’re tired of your standard iced coffee. However, if you’re a purist, their standard cold brew is delicious as well.
Although it’s not quite in Hoboken, this article would be incomplete without mentioning Lil Dove Cafe in Jersey City Heights. I’ve mentioned this spot in my columns before, so I’m just here to remind you that you’re a short elevator ride from a mocha that’s practically a spiritual experience. Their seasonal drinks top the creativity charts; think apple cider lattes and a Lucky Charms drink paired with oat milk for maximum cereal flavor. If you’re hungry, try the egg and pesto grilled cheese made with oozy Gruyere. Also, make sure to peruse their in-store boutique filled with the cutest branded merchandise and stylish pieces from local artists.
One of my favorite things about living in Hoboken is the constant stream of new coffee shops to try. While these are some of my classics, there’s still many out there I haven’t tried. Currently on my must-try list: Yuki’s Bakery and Coffee, Green Pear Cafe, and Cafe Sophia. The real challenge will be making sure I’ve hit every cafe in Hoboken before graduation. Coffee crawl, anyone?
The College Gourmet is an Opinion culture column written and created by Julia Dwight ‘22 to discuss cooking tips for students, explore local restaurants available to students, and more.
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