As a self-certified coffee lover and a university student, I have made it my mission to find some of the best cafés within walking distance of campus.
Here are four of my favorite local spots:
1. Bird in hand
This is probably the one most well-known to the Hopkins population, as it is just across from Scott-Bates Commons, one of the sophomore residence halls. It is both a coffee shop and a bookstore that also hosts events such as poetry readings or mini pop-up markets! You can also find a selection of merchandise from small local businesses (soaps, candles, and more). This spot is perfect for catching up with friends or having a study session; there is a decent amount of indoor and outdoor seating. I will warn you though: this place is pretty popular, so the seats get filled up fast!
As for their menu, they have a selection of coffees, teas, breakfast foods, and pastries. My go-to order is an iced latte with peppermint syrup, one of their scones, or honey ricotta toast!
2. Blueprint Café
Blueprint Café is perhaps the newest edition to the list of nearby cafes. It is a smaller spot slightly tucked away, just off St. Paul. I loved the cozy ambiance; it seems like a great study spot if you can manage to find an empty seat! They have a selection of coffee, matcha, and tea, as well as what I assume to be a seasonal offering of a black sesame milk latte, which could be a great option if you like sesame!
While their coffee looked and tasted great, the even greater standout of Blueprint was their pastries! I highly recommend their spice knot— a fluffy bun with butter, brown sugar, and cream cheese frosting. I also tried their raspberry pie muffin, which was delicious. Let’s just say, I will definitely be going back for more!
3. Kitsch Café
Kitsch Café has multiple locations, including a mini spot on campus in Gilman Hall called “Kitschenette.” However, one of their main locations is on the other side of campus in the lobby of The Carlyle (an off-campus living option for juniors and seniors). There is not a lot of seating available, but this is a great place for a grab-and-go breakfast or lunch, especially since you can order online. (Tip: if you order online and create an account, you can stack up points pretty quickly—especially if you’re like me and go often!)
My go-to order is a create-your-own breakfast sandwich (brioche bun, sausage, hash brown, egg, sometimes strawberry jam— if you’re curious) and a London Bridge (earl grey tea, vanilla bean syrup, milk). It was Valentine’s weekend when I went, so I also got some of their limited Valentine’s treats— a chocolate raspberry latte and a brioche bun with Nutella, housemade strawberry jam, and powdered sugar!
4. Kanom Café
Last, but certainly not least, is Kanom Café. I recently tried this for the first time and instantly fell in love with the place. This cafe is also on the other side of campus, a short walk from the Rec Center. What seems to be a family-run business, Kanom has a pretty thorough selection of pastries, cakes, and drinks. There is a decent amount of seating and a lovely ambiance to the place.
I cannot say enough about how delicious everything is. Because I have only been there a handful of times, I don’t have a go-to order just yet, but everything I tried so far has been incredible. Their carrot cake, garlic bun, pesto tomato croissant, banana bread— none of it has disappointed. I also love their Asian-inspired drinks, such as their Es Yen (Thai-style iced coffee) or their Yuzu Black (yuzu juice, espresso shot, sparkling water). You may just have to be like me and visit multiple times to try everything on their menu!
These have been some of my favorite spots to frequent over my years at Hopkins. If you are ever in the mood for a café food or drink, definitely check them out!
