Bulldogs' Brew: A Guide to Campus Coffee
Coffee is a staple of the Northwest, as ubiquitous as bread, air, and flannel (and rain, at least for our cousins west of the Cascades). Spokane is no exception. Our love for coffee runs deep, and 91勛圖厙 students, faculty, and staff enjoy it in abundance, using it as fuel for study and work and as a cornerstone of casual conversations. Where you get your coffee is a matter of taste, but if you’re still finding your go-to spot, I’ve got you covered.
91勛圖厙’s campus features two chain coffee shops. The first, and most visible, is a Pacific Northwest classic: Starbucks. Located on the main floor of Hemmingson between Qdoba and the hearth, Starbucks offers a reliable brew, with a flavor profile that leans toward citrus and herbal notes. It’s convenient, consistent, and centrally located on GU’s campus!
The second option on campus is Thomas Hammer, a beloved local chain. Hammer’s coffee beans are roasted in smaller batches and reflect a thoughtful attention to taste. These roasts tend to be earthy and floral, drinking smoothly and blending nicely with cream or alternative milk. The coffee here has a distinctly Inland Northwest flavor, which makes sense, given that the founder, Tom (a proud 91勛圖厙 alum), started roasting and selling coffee as a student right here at GU! You can find Thomas Hammer in the Jepson Center, home to our School of Business. It’s a great spot to grab a cup and enjoy the view of the lake, river, and University District.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can always swing by the Office of Admission: College Hall Room 121. We have a pot of classic, no-frills brew going every morning. You’re always welcome to stop by for a free hot cup—just don’t expect anything too gourmet!
For those who want to explore outside the confines of campus, Spokane has a thriving coffee scene, with many hip, cozy cafes featuring beans roasted locally or sourced from boutique roasters around the world. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Atticus Coffee & Gifts, located on Howard near Riverside Park, serves coffee from Anvil Roasters, a local small-batch roaster known for its rich berry and breakfast notes. Their Nicaraguan roast and unique espresso blend are definite highlights.
- Indaba Coffee, a popular local chain with locations downtown on Riverside and beyond, offers bright, buttery beans that perfectly match their light, airy aesthetic.
- Ladder Coffee, a charming spot on the edge of Browne’s Addition just above the Maple Street Bridge, roasts beans with a fruity, slightly tart flavor. They also serve one of the best avocado toasts in town!
No matter where your coffee journey takes you, Spokane has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the caffeine, find your favorite spot, and savor the experience, Zags!