Often, the university libraries can somehow make you feel both agoraphobic and claustrophobic, bored and overwhelmed. More times than not, you’ll find yourself staring at the dull ceilings of Central hating every moment that passes by. With the announcement of online classes, as well as the inevitable reality that soon freshers will fill up every inch of campus, it’s time to branch out and find some new study spots - and where better than a local cafe? Here Critic has compiled an unranked list of Dunedin cafes that are great spots to get your grind on. The factors that were taken into consideration included location, table space (to spread out all your notes) wifi, food and drink quality, as well as the overall atmosphere depending on what kind of studier you are.
1. Modaks
A solid Dunedin classic, Modaks has never failed to deliver on food, coffee and immaculate vibes. Nestled right on George Street, it’s an easily accessible spot which has a great atmosphere for study. There are large tables to sprawl all your stuff out, alongside free and unlimited wifi (score!). The interior design is cute and quirky; it’s the kind of place that gives you the warm fuzzies, providing a sense of comfort and stability. It definitely makes you feel like you’re the main character. I highly suggest the french fries (iykyk) and the iced lattes are pretty solid as well. Modak’s gets you in the mood to get some serious study done, and it’s always fun to people-watch on George Street. The general cohort of folks that hang out there seem to be students, especially those in humanities, so it’s definitely a friendly study space.
2. Governor’s Cafe
I was a little nervous to try Gov’s this year after the announcement they were under new management, because that always goes one of two ways. However, I am pleased to inform the masses that Gov’s remains the same classic, reliable place it always has been. The coffee is still great, and they’ve even somewhat spiced up the menu. You can now have mocktails, savoury pancakes and fried cauliflower. If you’re wanting to stick to the classic study snacks, there’s still cheese rolls, sandwiches and french fries. If you’re someone who needs silence to work, I recommend the upstairs area. It’s usually pretty quiet and full of other students on the grind or people having meetings. If you’re looking for a little more stimulation and love background noise, the downstairs area is also great. Overall, Gov’s is super student friendly, easily accessible on George Street, and totally a spot you could spend hours in.
3. The Perc
Located on lower Stuart Street – a little further away than the other spots – is The Perc. If you’re wanting to fully get out of the student zone, I highly recommend this spot. The Perc is pretty busy, especially on weekends, so if you’re trying to get a decent amount of revision time in, definitely go in the off hours (ideally between the morning rush and lunch). The coffee is decent in size and price. The food may run a little more on the expensive side if you’re feeling snackish, but it’s still worth every bite.
4. Long Dog Cafe
Now this is for the people who really REALLY want a change of scenery. The Long Dog cafe is located by the St Clair Salt Water pool, and it is amazing. It’s usually jam-packed, so get in as early as you can - especially if you’re doing a weekend study mish. You may cop some hate for studying here, and rightfully so. There also isn’t wifi, which is a downside, but if you’re just going over notes, writing essays, or catching up on general life admin, it’s an ideal spot. You can sit inside or outside and watch the waves roll in, sometimes you can even see seals frolicking. Also the food is incredible – I’d highly recommend the halloumi bagel or snickers slice.
5. Beam Me Up Bagels (centre city)
Beam Me Up Bagels is another go-to if you’re looking for a more urban spot to get the grind going. Much like Modaks and Gov’s, it has massive tables to spread out on, and is perfect for group study sessions. You can’t go here and not get a bagel, so I’d strongly recommend the “Scully” or “Halloumi Head” for your study snack. However, atmospherically, Beam Me Up definitely is more busy and chaotic, so it may be more of a place to grab a coffee and revise some notes than for a full blown intense study session.