As a former barista, I regularly intoxicate my mornings,
lunches and late evenings with a little caffeine-soaked euphoria. There’s
nothing like a shot of espresso to alleviate the stresses of academia, and UCSD
has certainly capitalized on cappuccino therapy. There are a gazillion places
to grab a cup — some legit, others complete shit.

The Art of Espresso Cafe (otherwise known as the Mandeville
coffee cart) definitely falls into the former category. There are plenty of
saccharine, calorie-latent beverages for folks who can’t handle coffee that
tastes like coffee; but for those who can, there are plenty of hearty brews to
choose from. Its foam, in particular, is always expertly dolloped (go for a
bear claw on the side, if you’re feeling ambitious).

Next is a newcomer in the Price Center expansion, toted as
the best “eco-friendly” spot to sip, with fair-trade offerings and recycled
materials. The overstuffed chairs and fireside ambience secure Perks coffee
shop as a worthwhile corner to visit on a rainy day. Be aware that its ‘Joe is
thicker and earthier than your typical watered-down cafeteria brew; its beans
are provided by the award-winning Barefoot Coffee Roasters, known for a
commitment to organic, shade-grown coffee.

Finally, there’s the grab-and-go option of the Fairbanks
coffee carts that litter the campus like little havens for the addicts (like
myself), who need their fix after every class. My personal go-to locale is the
Center Hall cart, which is usually accompanied by a line of sleepy students.
With friendly workers and a variety of quick meal options, it does the job as a
one-stop coffee spot for those who can’t afford the time to sit down and
socialize.