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Review content:
As an academic and caffeine afficianado, Village Grounds is the place that I consistently choose for drinks and work. There are many many coffee shops in Berkeley, each with its ups and downs, but I choose this one for many reasons as my favorite.
1. Work Environment: This coffee shop is relatively quiet, and there is plenty of space (tables are not crowded together). This coffee shop is not a social scene or place to pick up a date. The music played is similarly non-intrusive. I believe it is a satellite-radio coffee-house station. It's somewhat generic music, but good for working. There is free wifi, which is fast with plenty of bandwidth, and does not require joining any corporate wifi plans. Chairs and tables are comfortable, and the place is always clean. The layout is extremely well thought-out, including the custom window shades which block the hot afternoon sun, the bookshelves and comfy leather chairs, and the many roomy tables on which to spread out your papers and books.
2. Beverages: I usually drink regular coffee, iced coffee, or simple espresso drinks (lattes). These are consistent and excellent. A variety of blends are available, and the preparation is always good. Everything seems fresh and well cared-for. The owners have done their research, and keep their coffee excellent using local providers.
3. Location: I live about 150 feet away from this coffee shop. So it's close! Also, it is somewhat farther from campus than other coffee shops, so it has not turned into a grungy undergraduate hangout. It seems ideal for graduate students, faculty (like myself), and professionals.
Village Grounds is an overall winner. There may be a better food selection at other cafes such as Yali's, and perhaps the coffee is slightly better at Le Bateaux Ivre (far south of campus), but for general quality and friendliness, Village Grounds cannot be beat.
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