Top 10 Reasons You Need To Try Kaya Coffee House

With big chain restaurants and coffee houses taking the nation by storm, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a unique, quaint and quality place to sip on your favorite caffeinated drink these days. One place that won’t let you down? Mount Pleasant’s own, Kaya Coffee House. Whether you’re a student or a Mount Pleasant resident, this coffee house doesn’t disappoint – and here’s why.

1. Location. It’s located only one block north of campus, making it perfect for an afternoon snack or study session on a cold winter day.
2. You’re supporting locals. Purchasing products at an independently-owned coffee house helps stimulate the local economy. Kaya also holds many poetry slams, concerts and fundraisers to assist community members.
3. It promotes global social justice. Kaya has a niche as an environmentally and socially sustainable coffee house. It serves fair-trade coffee and tea, which means it pays a bit more for products to ensure farmers are being paid properly.
4. The food is fresh. Homemade sandwiches, salads and soups are great alternatives to the plethora of fast food chain options so easily found on Mission Street.
5. It won’t break your bank. Many students agree that Kaya offers quality food and drinks that are affordable, unlike some of the chain coffee shops who charge $6 or more dollars for one item.
6. It’s multicultural. Although Mount Pleasant may not be located in the most diverse area, you’ll forget that once you step through Kaya’s front door. There are often people of all different ethnicities and languages sitting down and enjoying each other’s company.
7. It’s a safe haven for vegetarians. Kaya is sensitive to vegetarian needs by offering tofu options. Central Michigan University alum and vegetarian Daniella Daniels will vouch for that, even declaring that Kaya has the “most delicious vegetarian food in Mount Pleasant.”
8. They have the world’s best Thai-style red curry. Possibly the most delicious winter meal – feel free to top it with chicken or tofu to complete this beautiful, one-of-a-kind bowl of vegetables and rice.
9. It will inspire you. Just failed a test? Come grab a chair at Kaya, get a cup of coffee or tea and read one of their numerous handwritten quotes posted on the walls. You’ll regain a sense of ease within minutes.
10. It’s perfect for the early bird at night owl alike. It’s open 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and weekends from 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. Come in at any hour of the day and you will find students working away on their laptops as they sit at tables or sprawled out on one of the couches. When the library isn’t your ideal study environment, Kaya may be just right for you.