Despite its impressiveness and magnitude, UCD’s James Joyce Library may not be the most conducive study location for every student. Libraries can feel rigid and strict, not to mention they are often difficult to find seating in. Consider heading from campus into Dublin’s city centre to try these three cafes for a quiet place to study.
The Bald Barista
68 Aungier Street
Home to the best espresso in Dublin, the Bald Barista cafe has a great selection of caffeinated drinks for when you’re chipping away at your homework. This cafe is ideal for working on a laptop, because it is equipped with tables, outlets, and free WiFi. Not only is the coffee delightful, the food is inexpensive and delicious. Whether you have a long day’s worth of study to do and want the full breakfast, or you’re just feeling a pastry, the Bald Barista himself will accommodate your needs. Peak hours are around lunch time, so if you’re looking for quieter study, it is wise to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon. From UCD, the 46A and 39A buses will drop you off at Dawson Street, and from there it is only a 10-minute walk to the Bald Barista.
Oolong Flower Power
4 Stephen Street Lower
Located just a few minutes’ walk St. Stephen’s Green, Oolong is the ultimate study location for tea connoisseurs. With dozens of different of types of any tea you could imagine, Oolong offers a quiet and comfortable atmosphere for students. Along with tea, there are a number of lunch specials offered, including quesadillas, sandwiches, and pizzas. Oolong offers plenty of seating, speedy internet, and a relaxed vibe. From UCD, you can take any bus that arrives near the St. Stephen’s Green or Grafton Street area, and walk just a few minutes past the park before arriving.
Accents Coffee and Tea Lounge
2 Stephen Street Lower
Of all the cafes in Dublin, Accents is by far the most comfortable with the friendliest service in the city. The beverages are very reasonably priced for such a central location in the city centre, and sweet treats such as the peanut butter cup latte are tasty and comforting. Accents also has desserts and savoury treats, such as cakes and sausage rolls, that are particularly tempting during a study session. Accents is equipped with efficient internet, comfortable chairs and couches, as well as a relaxed ambience. Peak hours for Accents are in the late afternoons and evenings, so for serious study, arriving in the morning is essential. Accents is located just two doors down from Oolong, so any transportation that drops passengers off in the Grafton Street area will suit just fine. Be sure to try the peanut butter slice and chai lattes!
Mary Sheehan – LifeStyle Writer
