Now that the second semester has begun, it’s time to focus on schoolwork, or—in other words—lock in. The most important aspect that is needed to lock in this semester is a healthy working environment. Studies have shown that working in the same place you sleep in is unproductive and can negatively alter productivity as well as sleep. The best way to combat this is to find a place outside of your home to effectively lock in. In my quest to find the best study cafe spots in downtown Fullerton, I have located the top four spots.
The Mugs
Perfect for rainy days, The Mugs has plenty of indoor seating with limited outdoor seating. Additionally, you don’t even need to bring headphones because their playlists are top tier. One of the biggest draws to this cafe is their innumerable outlets. There is never a lack of places to charge your laptop.
When I went, I got the Tiramisu Iced Latte, and I haven’t stopped thinking about it. This drink is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, but I believe it’s only sold for a limited time, so head over to The Mugs ASAP. Mattie Geronimo ‘24 is also a mugs fanatic, “Their rose matcha latte is my personal favorite. I’ve had this drink at different cafes, but The Mugs is by far the best one I’ve had. You can taste the rose and the matcha is so rich. It’s definitely a must-try.”
Dripp
Dripp has been my go-to for over a year now. Not only do they have tons of seating indoors, but they have a beautiful outdoor area. Also, if you prefer to park in the middle of nowhere due to lackluster parking abilities (like me), there is a massive parking lot right outside of Dripp which is usually no more than half-full.
My favorite drink is their matcha. Usually I go for iced matcha, but ever since my mom accidentally got me a hot one, the hot matcha from Dripp has become my new regular on cold days. Also, the croissant sandwiches are an absolute must-have. They’re pretty big, so I would recommend sharing if you’re only wanting a snack.
Qamaria Yemeni Coffee
Qamaria is probably the quietest of all these cafes, making it the perfect place for a true locked in study session. The playlist adds to this study environment, and overall, Qamaria Yemeni is the best place to get an essay done or cram for a test.
The most unique thing on their menu is cake. Nia Delacruz ‘24, Mattie, and I shared one of Qamaria’s delicious rose cakes while studying for finals last semester. Nia didn’t love the rose cake as much as me and Mattie but she said, “I had been to Qamaria Coffee twice before the time all three of us went, and I was dying to try one of the cakes. When Mattie, Marci, and I went, we shared the rose cake, and all I can say is that it wasn’t exactly what I expected. I didn’t love it, but it wasn’t terrible. I liked the texture and the rose petals, but to my (mild) disappointment, the taste wasn’t as ‘rosey’ as I would’ve hoped. But, I 100% still want to go back and try their Biscoff cake!”
Sojeata
I just tried Sojeata for the first time the other day, and it’s safe to say that this will become a new regular. Even though it was very busy, the noise level stayed very minimal. The drinks are reasonably priced, and I would actually sell my left leg for another cup of their jasmine milk tea with brown sugar boba.
I once again went with my study buddies, Mattie and Nia. Mattie said “The rose tea with sakura crystal boba was really good. It was a great first drink to buy and the reusable cup they sell with it is so cute. It was pretty cheap too with it being six dollars when you buy a drink. There are a lot of people inside, but it still feels really cozy and the interior is really pretty.”
Don’t start slacking off this semester, Royals. Locking in at these Fullerton Cafes is sure to make for amazing grades as the school year ends.
