Sip and Study: 5 must-try coffee spots in the university neighborhood

Coffee beans

To help meet your increased caffeine needs during the school year, we’ve assembled this list of five coffee spots on campus you may not have tried yet—and one has a “special” secret. 

Red Bicycle – Peabody College

Have a hankering for a warm crepe with your coffee? Then head over to Nashville-based Red Bicycle, now with two locations on the campus of Vanderbilt Peabody College of education and human development.

    • Connector Building at 6 Magnolia, ground floor 
    • Peabody Library, ground floor (“Iris Cafe”)

Place an order for pickup here. >> 

8th and Roast – Broadview at Vanderbilt Apartments

A recent addition to the Vandy neighborhood, 8th and Roast is a Nashville-based “roastery and café” that offers coffee and more to its patrons. 

While it’s not part of the Campus Dining network, 8&R is part of Dining’s Taste of Nashville program, where students with a Meal Money Account can use those funds. 

There are seats at the café if you want to stay and study, but here’s a pro tip for Vandy graduate and professional students: Head on into Broadview and use any of the open communal spaces in the building. All you need to do is swipe your Commodore Card!

Café Carmichael – Carmichael College

Café Carmichael, located within the new Carmichael College, will feature an all-day café with coffee handcrafted espresso beverages in partnership with Frothy Monkey, pastries, sandwiches and more. With soaring ceilings and lounge-style seating, Café Carmichael will be less dining hall and more in the style of a grand European café for the campus community and visitors to enjoy.

Common Grounds – Commons Center

You’ll find some uncommon treats at Common Grounds, which is on the first floor of the Commons Center. This place features a selection of handcrafted local and sustainable Frothy Monkey expresso beverages and brewed coffee.  

Local Java at Alumni Café – Alumni Hall

Local Java proudly features tea and locally roasted Frothy Monkey coffee, which many already enjoy. But did you know about the “special” menu item? Local Java offers $2 flavored lattes that rotate each week—and you’ve got to go in person to find out what’s featured this week! 

The café also offers meal swipe options for students, including breakfast, lunch sandwiches and pastries.