As temperatures and (quite probably) academic grades plummet, the perfect fall latte is a must-have when cozying up to study.
This week, A&E scoured the streets from West Bank to Southeast Como in search of a latte with rich flavors and reminiscent of autumns past. A latte so bold you actually stand a chance of working on the homework you brought along to the cafe, a latte unlike any other: here are campus’s finest.
The Toasted Marshmallow Pumpkin Spice
This drink was found just north of West Bank Campus at Humble Cup. According to baristas Anna Rice, an entrepreneurial management and nonprofit sophomore at Carlson, and Becca Fuller, a transfer student in the College of Liberal Arts, the Toasted Marshmallow Pumpkin Spice Latte was a customer creation — the result of mixing the two flavors. The drink is now one of their tastiest espresso offerings. Unfortunately, the “toasted” marshmallow came across as rather burnt.
Price: $4.05
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.
The Pumpkin Pie
Not to be confused with the basic pumpkin spice, the Pumpkin Pie Latte is Espresso Royale’s variation on the seasonal staple. Perhaps the smoothest of the bunch, this drink was creamy, bold and gourd-y. It really did taste like pumpkin pie, which, let’s be honest, tastes pretty much the same as pumpkin spice.
Price: $4
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.
The Vanilla Almond Chai
Located on 15th and Como Avenue Southeast, Black Coffee and Waffle Bar recently released its Vanilla Almond Chai. The chai was neither too weak nor too spicy, and the vanilla almond was a creative addition. “A lot of people have been ordering the vanilla almond latte. It seems to be really popular,” said Lily Hock, barista and University civil engineering sophomore. “But I personally prefer the chai.”
Price: $4.10
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
The Lumberjack
Complete with maple spice, praline and a dash of cinnamon on top (making this drink extra Instagram-worthy), The Purple Onion offers latte-lovers the Lumberjack. This drink was a pleasure to consume, and also to inhale. The espresso was bold, the maple was sweet, the praline was nutty, the cinnamon added just enough spice and the foam-to-drink ratio was ideal. There’s just something special about a good foam-to-drink ratio.
Price: $3.95
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The Aztec Mocha
For those Minnesotans who think pepper is “spicy,” first of all, toughen up. Second of all, Bordertown Coffee’s Aztec Mocha probably isn’t for you. The drink includes cayenne pepper and cinnamon, giving the average mocha a spicy kick. Topped with whipped cream, the Aztec Mocha will keep you warm and buzzed all through the day.
Price: $4.75
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
While every latte was unique, there can only be one winner, and the Purple Onion’s Lumberjack came out on top. The sweet and spicy treat will keep you properly caffeinated, set the holiday mood and provide a perfect foam ratio while doing it.
Editor’s note: All drinks were priced as a “small” and ordered with almond or soy milk.
