have a cup

Stressed out? Library too loud to study? Cold weather getting to you? For most of Bloomington's students, staff and residents, escaping to a nearby coffeehouse for some rest, relaxation and, of course, some great coffee, seems to be not just a fad, but also the smart thing to do. Runcible Spoon, Soma and Espresso Royale are just a few of Bloomington's locally owned hot spots for some hot drinks. Comfort, quiet and great atmosphere blend such coffeehouses together, yet their unique styles present variety and pizzazz.\nRuncible Spoon:\nBrewing since 1977, Runcible Spoon is Bloomington's oldest coffeehouse. Walking along the stone pathway, surrounded by tiny white lights and flowers it offers a warm welcome. Upon entering, one is immediately absorbed by its beauty, vibrant colors, hanging plants, decorative framework and "feel like you're at home" atmosphere. \nThe menu includes "pancakes as big as a house," barista Joshua Ton says, omelets and egg rounds with a stunning bakery of cakes, brownies and various odds and ends for snacks. Ton says the coffee beans are imported from Kenya, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, Colombia, Malaysia and Peru to name a few places, to provide additional aroma, taste and warmth. Driving up the driveway into the parking lot set up like the entrance to a theme park, the outside deck enables customers to relax outside and play instruments. Although the chilling air might force some to veg inside these days, the winter weather continues to bring a steady stream of customers with the help of the fine breakfasts and the mouth-watering baked goods.\n"It's really contradictory because our customers are relaxed, they're manic, they're intelligent, they're not intelligent," Ton says. "It's a real melting pot."\nTammy Rechtin, senior and avid Runcible Spoon-goer, says she likes the unique atmosphere the most. \n"There's an aquarium in the bathroom which I thought was cool," Rechtin says. "It's quiet, it's quaint and nobody bothers you."\nSoma:\nLocated on Grant Street since 1999, Soma provides the alternative, organic side of coffeehouses. Decorated with multi-colored lights, comfortable couches and chairs and unique ceiling decos, Soma presents a predominantly high-impact atmosphere. One can choose from Soma's famous Cosmic Muffins, a vegan muffin with pumpkin, papayas, pears and raisins, or the White Zombie, a lightly roasted coffee holding "three times more caffeine than the regular coffee," Dylan Long, manager, says. "Nobody has (White Zombies)." \nCome summertime, Soma's outside deck is covered with customers of all ages, dogs, musicians, students studying or individuals simply relaxing. "Summertime is our busiest," Long says.\nThe great location, the alternative and vegan products, the small roasted, organic coffees and the comfortable atmosphere are among the many factors explaining how Soma satisfies its customers. \n"Soma is an excellent place to escape for studying and relaxing," says Melissa Lear, senior and Soma lover. "The comfortable seating and the great tasting coffee provide for a great mix."\nEspresso Royale:\nSince 1998, Espresso Royale has been successfully blending coffee beans and serving scrumptious food to a variety of Bloomington customers. Because of the top-selling cappuccinos, the pastries from Red Chair Bakery, the bagels from Howie's Bagels and soups and sandwiches Monday through Friday, Espresso Royale is the place to be. Small, yet quaint, cozy and comfortable, Espresso Royale presents a blend of relaxation, warm beverages and great service. \nMelissa Dorey, store manager, says Espresso Royale "is a friendly, great place for a cup of coffee. It's not flashy but honest and good." Whether reading, studying, talking or playing chess, Bloomington's students, staff and residents always have a second home with Espresso Royale. \nZac Engle, senior and Espresso Royale frequenter, says, "It's a cozy place with great coffee, good service and good people. It's modern with a local flavor"