The Common Cup
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Vibes on vibes from this little underground café. Found in the basement of the University Lutheran Church, you'll find a really cool entrance with simple yet warm embrace. The sense of community and everyone belonging is found here. Featuring a fully decked out coffee bar with pastries and board games on the side - opening up to a spacious area filled with tables and chairs lit up by subtle lighting with art on every wall space, it's the perfect spot to catch up with friends and family or to work (which is what a lot of UM students come here to do). The coffee here isn't too bad and it's a non-profit organization so I'm happy to support. We almost lost track of time by how much we were enjoying ourselves in this space.
A new favorite hang and a great chai latte. A special bonus that the very cool space occupies the basement of the University Lutheran Church next door to the Chi Omega Sorority. But to the God-Shy, don't let that deter you. The vibe is a buzz with good music, friends catching up, the dice of a board game hitting the hardwood and of course the tap, tap, tapping of UM students tackling their latest assignment. Finally the abundant string lighting, rotating art, and vintage barista bar (with an undoubtedly storied past) sets the scene. Don't miss.
I love the vibe in here. They're always playing chill music that can be good for getting work done or hanging out. That being said, I don't love their coffee and drinks. I've tried a few of their coffee drinks and their matcha. Their iced matcha wasn't made properly and there was clumps of matcha powder at the bottom of my glass. While I didn't love their coffee drinks/espresso, I know my friends would like it. Overall, don't love their drinks, but I've been here to work many times in the past few days! Priorities coming here are the coffeehouse vibes, but not the coffee.
Best study spot and best coffee around. This shop is the best hidden gem around Ann Arbor because all of the workers are so friendly, and the space can be used for almost any occasion! There is always board games, puzzles and the best coffee shop music. Overall, a great place to be at, never too crowded.
Delicious, lovely and strong espresso (Hyperion is wonderful!) and kind baristas. Quirky, in the basement of the church, has rotating art exhibitions and plenty of study space. Unique to the U of M campus area it has free parking (that it shares with the church). Sometimes drinks here take longer but that is because they are better quality and they are made the old fashioned way (pulling shots) and not on an fully automatic machine (in the way they would be at Starbucks). I personally don't mind waiting five minutes for better quality espresso, but keep in mind that if you're in a rush it might not be your go to place.
Here's a list of things I love about Common Cup: - Bizarre but convenient location (frat row on washtenaw, next to Angell Elementary) - Quiet - Fast, reliable wifi - Friendly baristas - Community environment (kid & board game friendly) - Decent coffee and snacks - Tons of seating and tables - Open late; take THAT Mighty Good! I've found the specialty drinks to be hit or miss. The baristas may be sweethearts, but they're not especially knowledgeable or talented. The "old college chai" was surprisingly tasty, but some of the lattes were definitely misses. In other words, stick to what you know you like here, and remember that you're here for the work/social environment as much as the beverages!
I'm going to start this review with a warning: you're in for a mushy read. Brace yourself. I started going to Common Cup because my roommate said that she'd heard it was good and closer than our usual spot. I think I've been back almost weekly since then. I have a lot to say here, so buckle up and enjoy the ride. Described below is a list of what I really enjoyed and what I felt a bit iffy about. Skip to the end for a summary if you don't want to read everything in between! I loved... The COFFEE. I haven't experimented a ton with the menu because their mocha is to die for and it honestly hurts a little to come here and not get one. It's not too sweet, but not bitter either, and it's got the right amount of coffee to leave you energized but not jittery. I've also had their London Fog, which tasted a bit Christmas-y for me but was still good, their Chai latte, which was deliciously creamy, and their hot chocolate, also a fan favorite. I always fall back to the mocha though. They've also got self-serve water in these cute mint-green cups, which I appreciate because I need to stay hydrated when drinking coffee. The PORTIONS. They don't skimp here. The mugs are sizeable and filled to the brim. Seriously. They overflow if you bump the table. Also, if you choose to get whipped cream on your drink, don't expect a dollop. They layer it waaaaaay up. Be prepared, and get excited. The PRICE. There's only a 25 cent difference between a small and medium mocha ($3.75), which seems very reasonable to me for the amount you're getting. Also, it spells less guilt for choosing a medium over a small (added bonus). The DECOR. They've done a beautiful job with the decor. There's gorgeous paintings lining the walls. They're constantly changing them, either moving or putting up new ones, so the walls are never boring to look at. It's simultaneously cute and sophisticated, a difficult and impressive line to walk. The SEATING. They have plenty of seating, including two person tables, four person tables, couches, and individual lounge chairs. The seats, despite being wooden, are very comfortable. I often sit in them for hours without any pain, which is rare and refreshing. The ACCOMMODATIONS. They have extension cords EVERYWHERE. Seriously, there's two at every outlet, and there's a lot of outlets. If you have a long charger, it can usually reach the cords from the middle tables too. It's rather convenient for us laptop users who constantly forgot to charge their devices overnight (whoops). The SERVICE. Every time I've come in, I was greeted with big smiles and sunny attitudes. Every cashier that I've ever encountered has been cheerful and invariably makes my day better. One guy even went out of his way to tell me he hoped my day was miraculous. It was one of those unexpected experiences that leaves you smiling for the rest of the day. The ATMOSPHERE. The music is subtle enough to work with even if you don't have headphones, people are never too loud, the actual coffee-making is never above an obnoxious volume, the lighting is just bright enough to work with comfortably but not too bright so as to cause headaches, and the temperature is somehow always perfect no matter what I'm wearing. It's the perfect place to work. I WAS iffy about... The fact that it's in a church. I was wary about going to a coffee shop with a strong religious leaning. I respect everyone's right to their own beliefs and assume I will be afforded the same considerations. I was concerned that this choice of workspace would not be conducive of that expectation. Despite my reservations, I decided to try it, and was pleasantly surprised. Seldom have I found a more ACCEPTING environment. Everyone I've met in Common Cup, from customers to cashiers, has been overwhelmingly kind and amiable. I've never felt pressured or judged in any way, and I feel endlessly comfortable there. Literally NOTHING else. I love this place. TL:DR Common Cup is one of my favorite places on campus to do work or just relax. The coffee is fantastic, the people are better, and I'm addicted to the vibe it gives off. It's welcoming and cozy, a great place to write an essay or catch up with an old friend (I've done both here). I can't say enough about how Common Cup has completely won my heart. If I could give it 15 stars, I would. Don't let the fact that it's in a church deter you if you're not Christian. It's a lovely spot for all. Overall, a top-notch shop for college students or anyone else that has a hankering for a good mocha.
Cool Ambience Friendly Staff Free Parking Free wifi Clean restrooms Free events like paint nights Good spot if you want to work in a calm atmosphere and don't want to worry about parking.
This is definitely a place I can get down to study. It's super quiet so if you're into that it can help you focus. I do listen to my music while I get my study vibes on - and the WiFi was good and had the cutest password (you'll see it when you get there). Also they have enough outlets to charge your electronics which is necessary for me when studying :p I had my usual americano which was decent The paintings on the wall of local artists were definitely worth looking at in between my study session. In summary, Would come back to study here again for sure.
Probably one of Ann Arbor's best kept secrets. This spacious café is the prime location to sit down with a good book, to study for exams, or simply enjoy the atmosphere with friends, playing one of their many stashes of board games. The staff are extremely courteous and helpful, more than happy to french press ground beans sourced from places like Guatemala and Honduras or steam milk for a big, delicious cup of hot cocoa. Attending the University of Michigan over the past four years, I failed to discover this cozy little place just off UM's south campus. Soon becoming an official Ann Arbor "townie" post-graduation, I'm 110% planning on coming back to cuddle up in one of their armchairs with my next great read. I recommend immensely!!!
My favorite study spot close to campus. A fantastic environment for work or meet ups with light music, board games, comfortable seating, and frequently updated local art hanging on the walls. I always have a pot of their seasonal tea every time I go; baked apple tea in the winter and pear mango tea in the summer. On top of having an amazing aroma, the tea can be served hot or iced and the pots can be re-steeped unlimited times.
I enjoyed my first experience at Common Cup! One of the main things I look for in a coffee shop is how comfortable I feel to work there, and this spot helped me get the job done. The atmopshere was cozy and inviting. There seemed to be a majority of University of Michigan students here. There's plenty of seating, whether it be couches to smaller tables to (what I remember) one larger table for bigger groups. I'd say the seats at the tables maybe weren't the most comfy though, I do wish they had seat pillows. The drinks did take a while to come out, but it wasn't an issue for me since I was just working. Side note: they even provide feminine hygiene products in the restroom. They also have a printer available. There's a huge parking lot available. Overall, I think this is a great spot to study and work from home, and you should definitely check it out! read more
Cute place in the bottom of a Lutheran church. It is an open space with a few groupings of soft furniture and several table and chair sets. Great coffee and a small offering of pastries. Nice spot to read. Highly recommend! read more
1 year ago
This is a great study or meetup spot! I stopped in with some friends to grab coffee and chat. There's ample seating indoors and some tables outside as well. The staff were helpful with menu questions and the vibes inside were great. I got one of their Iced Chai Lattes, it was delicious. I will say they don't list many prices on the menu which made deciding difficult. I believe there's also a difference in price between dinning in and taking out- just something to be aware of! Overall though, worth a visit! read more
Vibes on vibes from this little underground café. Found in the basement of the University Lutheran Church, you'll find a really cool entrance with simple yet warm embrace. The sense of community and everyone belonging is found here. Featuring a fully decked out coffee bar with pastries and board games on the side - opening up to a spacious area filled with tables and chairs lit up by subtle lighting with art on every wall space, it's the perfect spot to catch up with friends and family or to work (which is what a lot of UM students come here to do). The coffee here isn't too bad and it's a non-profit organization so I'm happy to support. We almost lost track of time by how much we were enjoying ourselves in this space. read more
4 years ago
A new favorite hang and a great chai latte. A special bonus that the very cool space occupies the basement of the University Lutheran Church next door to the Chi Omega Sorority. But to the God-Shy, don't let that deter you. The vibe is a buzz with good music, friends catching up, the dice of a board game hitting the hardwood and of course the tap, tap, tapping of UM students tackling their latest assignment. Finally the abundant string lighting, rotating art, and vintage barista bar (with an undoubtedly storied past) sets the scene. Don't miss. read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
I love the vibe in here. They're always playing chill music that can be good for getting work done or hanging out. That being said, I don't love their coffee and drinks. I've tried a few of their coffee drinks and their matcha. Their iced matcha wasn't made properly and there was clumps of matcha powder at the bottom of my glass. While I didn't love their coffee drinks/espresso, I know my friends would like it. Overall, don't love their drinks, but I've been here to work many times in the past few days! Priorities coming here are the coffeehouse vibes, but not the coffee. read more
3 years ago
Best study spot and best coffee around. This shop is the best hidden gem around Ann Arbor because all of the workers are so friendly, and the space can be used for almost any occasion! There is always board games, puzzles and the best coffee shop music. Overall, a great place to be at, never too crowded. read more
10 months ago
5 years ago
6 years ago
Delicious, lovely and strong espresso (Hyperion is wonderful!) and kind baristas. Quirky, in the basement of the church, has rotating art exhibitions and plenty of study space. Unique to the U of M campus area it has free parking (that it shares with the church). Sometimes drinks here take longer but that is because they are better quality and they are made the old fashioned way (pulling shots) and not on an fully automatic machine (in the way they would be at Starbucks). I personally don't mind waiting five minutes for better quality espresso, but keep in mind that if you're in a rush it might not be your go to place. read more
4 years ago
Here's a list of things I love about Common Cup: - Bizarre but convenient location (frat row on washtenaw, next to Angell Elementary) - Quiet - Fast, reliable wifi - Friendly baristas - Community environment (kid & board game friendly) - Decent coffee and snacks - Tons of seating and tables - Open late; take THAT Mighty Good! I've found the specialty drinks to be hit or miss. The baristas may be sweethearts, but they're not especially knowledgeable or talented. The "old college chai" was surprisingly tasty, but some of the lattes were definitely misses. In other words, stick to what you know you like here, and remember that you're here for the work/social environment as much as the beverages! read more
8 years ago
I'm going to start this review with a warning: you're in for a mushy read. Brace yourself. I started going to Common Cup because my roommate said that she'd heard it was good and closer than our usual spot. I think I've been back almost weekly since then. I have a lot to say here, so buckle up and enjoy the ride. Described below is a list of what I really enjoyed and what I felt a bit iffy about. Skip to the end for a summary if you don't want to read everything in between! I loved... The COFFEE. I haven't experimented a ton with the menu because their mocha is to die for and it honestly hurts a little to come here and not get one. It's not too sweet, but not bitter either, and it's got the right amount of coffee to leave you energized but not jittery. I've also had their London Fog, which tasted a bit Christmas-y for me but was still good, their Chai latte, which was deliciously creamy, and their hot chocolate, also a fan favorite. I always fall back to the mocha though. They've also got self-serve water in these cute mint-green cups, which I appreciate because I need to stay hydrated when drinking coffee. The PORTIONS. They don't skimp here. The mugs are sizeable and filled to the brim. Seriously. They overflow if you bump the table. Also, if you choose to get whipped cream on your drink, don't expect a dollop. They layer it waaaaaay up. Be prepared, and get excited. The PRICE. There's only a 25 cent difference between a small and medium mocha ($3.75), which seems very reasonable to me for the amount you're getting. Also, it spells less guilt for choosing a medium over a small (added bonus). The DECOR. They've done a beautiful job with the decor. There's gorgeous paintings lining the walls. They're constantly changing them, either moving or putting up new ones, so the walls are never boring to look at. It's simultaneously cute and sophisticated, a difficult and impressive line to walk. The SEATING. They have plenty of seating, including two person tables, four person tables, couches, and individual lounge chairs. The seats, despite being wooden, are very comfortable. I often sit in them for hours without any pain, which is rare and refreshing. The ACCOMMODATIONS. They have extension cords EVERYWHERE. Seriously, there's two at every outlet, and there's a lot of outlets. If you have a long charger, it can usually reach the cords from the middle tables too. It's rather convenient for us laptop users who constantly forgot to charge their devices overnight (whoops). The SERVICE. Every time I've come in, I was greeted with big smiles and sunny attitudes. Every cashier that I've ever encountered has been cheerful and invariably makes my day better. One guy even went out of his way to tell me he hoped my day was miraculous. It was one of those unexpected experiences that leaves you smiling for the rest of the day. The ATMOSPHERE. The music is subtle enough to work with even if you don't have headphones, people are never too loud, the actual coffee-making is never above an obnoxious volume, the lighting is just bright enough to work with comfortably but not too bright so as to cause headaches, and the temperature is somehow always perfect no matter what I'm wearing. It's the perfect place to work. I WAS iffy about... The fact that it's in a church. I was wary about going to a coffee shop with a strong religious leaning. I respect everyone's right to their own beliefs and assume I will be afforded the same considerations. I was concerned that this choice of workspace would not be conducive of that expectation. Despite my reservations, I decided to try it, and was pleasantly surprised. Seldom have I found a more ACCEPTING environment. Everyone I've met in Common Cup, from customers to cashiers, has been overwhelmingly kind and amiable. I've never felt pressured or judged in any way, and I feel endlessly comfortable there. Literally NOTHING else. I love this place. TL:DR Common Cup is one of my favorite places on campus to do work or just relax. The coffee is fantastic, the people are better, and I'm addicted to the vibe it gives off. It's welcoming and cozy, a great place to write an essay or catch up with an old friend (I've done both here). I can't say enough about how Common Cup has completely won my heart. If I could give it 15 stars, I would. Don't let the fact that it's in a church deter you if you're not Christian. It's a lovely spot for all. Overall, a top-notch shop for college students or anyone else that has a hankering for a good mocha. read more
7 years ago
This is definitely a place I can get down to study. It's super quiet so if you're into that it can help you focus. I do listen to my music while I get my study vibes on - and the WiFi was good and had the cutest password (you'll see it when you get there). Also they have enough outlets to charge your electronics which is necessary for me when studying :p I had my usual americano which was decent The paintings on the wall of local artists were definitely worth looking at in between my study session. In summary, Would come back to study here again for sure. read more
8 years ago
Probably one of Ann Arbor's best kept secrets. This spacious café is the prime location to sit down with a good book, to study for exams, or simply enjoy the atmosphere with friends, playing one of their many stashes of board games. The staff are extremely courteous and helpful, more than happy to french press ground beans sourced from places like Guatemala and Honduras or steam milk for a big, delicious cup of hot cocoa. Attending the University of Michigan over the past four years, I failed to discover this cozy little place just off UM's south campus. Soon becoming an official Ann Arbor "townie" post-graduation, I'm 110% planning on coming back to cuddle up in one of their armchairs with my next great read. I recommend immensely!!! read more
3 years ago
7 years ago
My favorite study spot close to campus. A fantastic environment for work or meet ups with light music, board games, comfortable seating, and frequently updated local art hanging on the walls. I always have a pot of their seasonal tea every time I go; baked apple tea in the winter and pear mango tea in the summer. On top of having an amazing aroma, the tea can be served hot or iced and the pots can be re-steeped unlimited times. read more
5 years ago
Common Cup is a hidden gem that I wish I knew about earlier. It's such a cozy (and surprisingly spacious) spot. Very unconventional to have a cafe connected to a church, but it works for Common Cup! Their coffee reminds me of something that my mom would make. When I ordered a caramel latte, they asked if I wanted whipped cream and caramel drizzle. I figured that I'd go with it because I was craving something sweet. I was surprised to see them top it off with a mountain of whipped cream that was covered in caramel sauce in a huge mug. It's not the way I usually drink my coffee, but it was so fun! I wish they had more options when it came to snacks and pastries. I had a blueberry muffin when I went, but there were limited options otherwise. The staff there is so friendly and sweet, the cafe space is very generous, and their tables are huge. Plenty of outlets around the walls, too. They even have extension plugs so you can usually find an outlet if need be. Their coffee itself isn't incredible, but it's kind of nice to have a latte topped off with whipped cream and caramel once in a while. The super friendly staff and spacious table space is also a nice break from some of the smaller cafes in Ann Arbor. Parking is super easy and free with their lot as well! read more
5 years ago
This is one of my favorite cafes to do work at and hang out on campus. First of all, there is a small parking lot next to Common Cup. Parking space on campus is notoriously difficult to find. I really hate having to scramble around for street parking or deal with parking structures. It adds an indefinite amount of time to my commute to campus, making me late to meet ups around campus. Second of all, there is a lot of space and outlets for catching up with friends or working both individually and with groups. Also, they have a great variety of creative drinks! Just to name one, they have a maple latte that is uniquely flavored with maple syrup and topped with black pepper. A perfect drink for cold weather. Most coffee shops don't have amaretto syrup, so I typically order an amaretto latte or steamer when I can here. The baristas are also super friendly and personable. Can't recommend this place enough! read more
11 years ago
Really quiet place, lots of people studying or working on laptops. It's a little hard to find but a very cool place when you get there. My coffee was huge, and my friends really liked their tea. read more
7 years ago
This coffee was really good. I had an iced latte, and the ratio of coffee, milk and cane syrup was perfect. The barista was so sweet. The atmosphere was peaceful and pleasant. Seems like a great place to get work done or have a quiet conversation. read more
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More info about The Common Cup
1511 Washtenaw Ave
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Directions
(734) 327-6914
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http://www.commoncupcoffee.com
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