BY: Alecia Hicks
Coffee shops have been trending since the first Starbucks opened in 1971. Finding new quiet places to study and try different flavored coffees can be exciting. Many big cities such as Nashville, Chicago and Seattle, where the first Starbucks opened, are known for creating a so-called “vibe” when it comes to local shops. Montgomery is quickly starting to create a vibe of its own with numerous local coffee shops popping up around the downtown area.
Downtown Montgomery has seen a slow progression of businesses in the past decade. With restaurants like SaZa and Wintzell’s being some of the only restaurants to entice tourists and locals to visit the historical Downtown area, it has proven to be a slow process toward innovation and cultivation. In the past couple of years, we have seen places such as the EJI Museum and BeYOUtiful Boutique, a local Black-owned business, open up and help Downtown Montgomery become a popular place to visit.
Things are slowly looking up for the downtown area. One of the most prominent shops in Montgomery, Prevail, originated in Atlanta and found its way into the Kress Building in 2016. The shop offers “fresh roasted coffee and unique drinks while in a comfortable environment.” Since 2016, Prevail has been one of the only coffee shops to make a presence in Montgomery that doesn’t feel like a chain-like coffee shop. If you are looking for a shop that has some of the best coffee and an ambiance that makes it enjoyable to get your work done, check out Prevail.
However, one of the newest trendy coffee shops is making its presence known in the Downtown area. Hilltop Public House had its grand opening on Feb. 11. The shop not only offers coffee but beer and bagels as well. During the day, the shop has an array of flavored coffee, like their lavender latte that adds a subtle twist to your basic espresso. The even bigger twist is the switch that they make at 4:30 p.m., when the shop turns into a bar that serves local beer and mixed drinks until midnight. If you are looking for a new study spot during the day and hangout scene at night, Hilltop is your place.
Lastly, the newest Starbucks has joined the downtown area. It can be found inside Ascent, the five-star boutique hotel by Marriott. The hotel has not officially opened, but when it does it will be another perfect spot to enjoy the views of historic Downtown Montgomery while you sip on some coffee.
School can be hard, but finding a serene and comfortable environment to help you through the school year is always a plus. Hopefully we can expect new innovative businesses to add to the culture of Montgomery and meet its potential.