Funky couches invite reading, while the well-worn tables are perfect for emptying your entire backpack. The legendary house double lattes pack a multi-layered jolt. Regulars practically set up camp and the student-sensitive management is supportive. Dark wood and exquisite, full-bodied coffee is the appeal of this relatively new entry into the overflowing downtown SC coffeehouse inventory. The place feels like an urban coffeehouse and Peet's award-winning beans make even the house regular coffee taste cosmic.
Pastries complete the picture, though regulars have been known to chew the coffee itself.
1330 Pacific Ave. Masters of the caffeine universe, the Seattle-based chain has recently emerged right across the street from the mall to the delight of the 41st Avenue community. Glittering galaxies of chocolates, pastries and croissants flirt from gleaming display cases. Shelves filled with every conceivable variation on espresso, decaf or industrial-strength java make this place an institution. Brightly colored walls, that lovably funky blue velour couch and plenty of windowfront counter seating make this an irresistible way to wake up.