Welcome to Willamette's Top 5! This page will give you a brief, student-centered look at what's happening in and around the Willamette community. You might learn about campus events, speakers, or random happenings in the city of Salem. We update the page regularly, so check back often.
Top 5 Coffee Houses in Salem
by Chelsea Mclennan '10
Coffee, for some, is the nectar of sustenance in college, and finding a good cup of coffee is essential. Here is just a sampling of the many great coffee places in Salem – and they’re all within walking distance of campus.
The Bistro
We can’t talk about coffee in Salem without mentioning the most convenient place to get it: the Willamette University Bistro. Located right here in the University Center, the Bistro offers a great place to grab a quick cup of Joe to take to your first class.
Want to try something new? Try an iced chai latte with a shot or two of espresso. Here the sweet offsets the bitterness, but adds spice – a personal favorite.
A little-known fact about the Bistro is that it takes Compass Cash (think on-campus debit card) and is open throughout the day and night. The Bistro even serves food: in addition to coffee-shop standbys, the menu includes vegetarian options as well as vegan chai or pumpkin cookies.
The Governor's Cup
Quite possibly a Salem classic, the Governor’s Cup offers coffee fit for a governor and an atmosphere fit for the diverse clientele.
Upon entering, one notices the high ceilings and a countertop – as well as a menu – that is longer than what might be normal. The blended drinks are a rumored favorite but the classics are just as good.
The Governor’s Cup is located approximately five blocks from campus. It is a Wi-Fi hotspot, which ensures productivity.
Cravings, Etc.
Arguably the best hidden gem in Salem, Cravings offers the cute appearance of a house and a warm interior that would brighten anyone’s day. There are comfy leather chairs to sit on by a fireplace or a well-lit sun room for better reading light.
The service is friendly and the coffee is amazing. Try a vanilla latte or their iced tea, which has the slight aftertaste of sweet honey.
Further unique elements of Cravings are the jazz, art, and poetry nights that they host regularly. The quieter atmosphere lends itself to conversation and sharing: on April 16th, Cravings is hosting a Spoken Word Open Mic Night at 6:30pm.
Cravings, Etc. is located about four blocks from campus walking on State Street. They also offer free Wi-Fi. For more info, check out their myspace page!
The Beanery
A local company based out of Albany, Oregon, The Beanery offers amazing pastries, a salad bar, and pre-made sandwiches and wraps to compliment their coffee. Not too far from campus, and with two locations within walking distance, the Beanery is a great place to sit down and enjoy good conversation with a great cup of coffee. If you are lucky, there might even be live music.
For a twist on the classic mocha, try their iced mochas with extra sweet chocolate. It is a little chunky on the bottom if you let it settle, but the taste of chocolate is amazing.
The Beanery’s coffee cakes and free wi-fi are also a hit among students.
Dutch Bros. and Starbucks
Although they might not quite count as coffee houses (and they're certainly not local), Starbucks and Dutch Bros. offer a great chance to grab a coffee on the go. With at least two Starbucks within walking distance of campus and two Dutch Bros. just a short drive away, there is always fast coffee within reach.
If you don’t like coffee, try a Dutch Bros. smoothie – strawberry is a safe bet for those uncertain, and when they ask if you want whip cream, say yes.
There is a new drive-through Starbucks on Commercial Street as well as a new drive-through Dutch Bros. on Mission, so no matter how you get back to campus from an excursion, you can swing in and grab a good-to-go drink.
