It is no secret that Xavier girls are tired from their rigorous commitments to school, service and athletics. Nevertheless, Gators persevere through hard work and copious amounts of caffeine.
Gator-approved coffee spot is local favorite, Hava Java. Located on 32nd St. and Camelback, Hava Java is home to the Frozen Java.
Nicknamed “Hava” by regulars, the shop is open 365 days a year, from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. This leaves plenty of time for students to get their coffee fix on their morning commutes, or grab an afterschool snack to enjoy while studying.
Hava was the first coffee shop in the valley, opening 33 years ago. Since their debut they have used espresso beans from Seattle and drip coffee from a family-owned coffee roaster.
Kaitlyn Markham ‘25 says Hava Java is her favorite coffee shop for the “zucchini bread and iced orange-grapefruit green tea.” Markham is one of many students who say they focus best at this coffee house.
Their signature slogan “chains are for bikes” reminds consumers how important eating and shopping locally is.
“My favorite aspect of my job is the atmosphere and the people I meet,” said Debbie Crippen, Hava Java barista.
On Central and Turney, Lux offers a dynamic study environment with comfortable couches and large tables, perfect for a study group right before finals.
Lux is known for its wide selection of baked goods and rich coffee. All pastries are baked in-house and make delicious breakfast or afternoon snacks. Lux also has a full menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
It may be a loud environment, but several students find they get the most work done under these conditions.
Flannery Walsh ‘26 has a part-time job as a Lux barista. She shared, “I meet lots of new people while also seeing faces I already know.”
Walsh appreciates her outgoing coworkers and how flexible her work schedule is so she can manage school and her job.
Copper Star, located on 7th Ave. and Heatherbrae Dr., is known for its colorful and rustic decoration. Famous for its house-made bagels, Copper Star is a go-to for a quick and delicious breakfast.
The location now known as Copper Star used to be a gas station, which adds a fun and unique history to the shop. The owners decided to keep the non-functional gas stalls outside, adding to the store’s individuality.
“The money paid for coffee and pastries goes to a person, not to a big corporation with millions of dollars,” said Copper Star regular Maggie Mostoller ‘25.
This is a must-stop for Gators who want delicious coffee and a welcoming experience right in the center of the Melrose historic district.
The upcoming and trendy coffee shop, Provision, is famous for its unique coffee and modern decoration. Unlike most coffee shops, Provision has two floors providing ample space for students who want to study before or after school.
Annemarie O’Gara ‘25 describes Provision as her go-to coffee shop since its founding. Her favorite is their lavender matcha paired with a prickly pear homemade pop tart. She enjoys their contemporary styling, and how each location is unique. `
Provision located in Central Phoenix is two stories tall, built out of glass and covered in plants. It has also added several new study amenities such as extra outlets and comfortable seating to welcome students.
Amanda Valdez, a barista at Provision, loves how community-based it is. It sources all of its coffee and pastries locally, and even holds local trivia night open to all.
Located on 7th St. and Missouri, Provision is a fast-growing and well-loved shop. A staple for any coffee lover.
Now that Gators are no longer welcomed at Starbucks until further notice, next time you need a coffee or sweet treat, consider supporting one of these local coffee shops.
Asiana Guang ♦ Apr 12, 2024 at 5:06 pm
love it!