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It’s student-run

The Co-Op is entirely student-run, operated by volunteers who assist with prep work as needed. Volunteers can join any time during the semester, and interested students can reach out via email or by messaging the .

They serve daily specialty drinks

Alongside drip coffee, which is served every morning, the Co-Op serves specialty lattes daily. Their current most popular drink is the Rose Matcha Latte, created in collaboration with the University Art Museum. “We use a culinary grade matcha,” said Ashley, general manager of the Co-Op, “and we use a bamboo whisk and a sifter.” I gave it a try — it is worth the hype!

Food and drinks are locally sourced

The Co-Op sources its ingredients from local farms in the tri-state area. Menu items rotate throughout the year, depending on what foods are in season. Menus are designed weekly to reflect current inventory, and in addition to both local and organic menu items, all of the syrups used for drinks are made in-house.

It’s a great place to get involved

Collaborations with both on- and off-campus organizations give students the opportunity to attend a variety of events hosted by the Co-Op. Its open layout provides the perfect environment for student groups to come together. You can find handmade jewelry, clothing sellers or crocheted goods at the student flea markets hosted by the Co-Op, or stop by an open mic night held in collaboration with the . The Co-Op itself also hosts 1-2 Nite-Owl events with a revamped menu every semester, along with a fall dinner hosted yearly in November.

It’s a comforting community

Although the Co-Op continuously evolves as new and current members of the Co-Op join every semester, there is one constant: it remains a place where all students can uplift and support each other. As one of the only fully vegan options for students on campus, its determination to stay true to its core values keeps students coming back. Laura, a vegan graduate student who was first introduced to the Co-Op as a first-year student navigating COVID-19 restrictions on campus, found the Co-Op to be a place of comfort and reliability amidst the chaos. Despite only being able to pick up food at the time, the reliability of well-cooked vegan meals has kept her coming back for more. “Coming here is definitely a huge relief. I know I can eat what I want to eat here. It’s good food, like a home-cooked meal.”

My afternoon with the Co-Op was well spent. Not only was my latte amazing, but running through my mind was the question, “How can I make the most of my final semester at 91����?” — the answer to which can only be found in such places as the Co-Op. The Co-Op welcomes its visitors with open arms and a warm attitude. If you are looking for a place to bring your friends or make new ones, simply grab a latte and pull up a chair.

Nicole Owens is a senior English major and writing studies minor working as a communications assistant in the Office of Media and Public Relations. She is interested in pursuing a career in marketing or publishing. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music and going to the gym.