With finals right around the corner, many of us are turning to caffeine as a way to survive these last couple weeks.

As the host of the podcast Coffee with Catalina, it felt like my duty to review three local coffee shops and put their ambience, work space and most importantly drinks, to the test.

Though there are some great locations on campus to work and write any last minute sentences, it’s always nice to get a change of scenery. 

Here are some highlights of coffee shops near campus.

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Located 20 minutes South of Moraine in Mokena, Book Bar has a light and airy ambience, with a wide selection of food and drinks. It even includes a mini bookstore. This cafe has an overall charming and laid-back aesthetic, with a highlight being walls full of different book pages, which covers the entire perimeter of the store.

When it came to ordering, I asked the baristas what they recommended, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint.

I ended up ordering an iced white chocolate lavender latte. While that is not something I would ever think to order, it ended up being a 10/10.

With rich and smooth flavors, you will be wishing they had a larger size for their drinks.

You’ll find Book Bar at 19060 Everett Blvd., Mokena.

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Clancy Bros Coffee, also located in Mokena, will always be my first recommendation for those needing a good study spot. As someone who gets headaches easily and hates studying where the lighting is too bright, this is the perfect place to fully unwind.

With a menu that is sure to have something for everyone and seating that ranges from sofas to tables, this place is oozing with a warm and cozy atmosphere. 

I’ve always found it extremely hard to find the right place to study, but I can say with all my heart that Clancy Bros never lets me down.

I can, and have, stayed for hours working on school, and this place will for sure be getting me through this year’s finals.  

You’ll find Clancy Bros at 19931 Wolf Road in Mokena.

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Strange Brew Cafe is a few minutes from campus and never disappoints. With low lighting and diverse music, Strange Brew is a second home to many students both in high school and college.

Their quaint and cozy environment is a go-to for many, and their menu includes occasional limited-edition drinks crafted for each season. 

They also serve various food such as toasts, sandwiches and pastries, because apparently coffee can’t count as a meal. Who knew?

Our staff recommends the Mocha and the Pesto Chickenini.

You’ll find Strange Brew just north of campus at 8650 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

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featured image graphic by EMILY STEPHENS