The hunt for coffee in Houston is not a hard one. What I’ve found hard is finding a coffee shop that inspires me to be productive.

Though this list is not comprehensive, it comprises cute coffee shops and some things to do around those coffee shops, in Houston.

If you’re in the West Loop/Bellaire area and are looking for a quaint and homely coffee shop, this one will fit your needs perfectly. At La Tazza  I ordered a kids’ caramel latte and an almond croissant. Notably, they offer smaller coffee sizes for those who may not always want to drink a full cup. The almond croissant was amazingly soft with a crunchy outer and an outstanding cinnamon filling. The owner, Santiago, was also extremely welcoming. In my conversation with him, I learned that they select their coffee mostly from Colombia, but a small amount also comes from Africa, and they roast the beans locally weekly. The coffee shop opened only four months ago, though if you walk in it’s usually packed.

Another favorite is Slowpokes coffee. They have many branches across West Houston, and the workers are always extremely nice. I visited the West University location, on Wesleyan. This location is dog-friendly and usually has quiet to moderate noise. They have a variety of coffee and non-coffee drinks, and a food menu featuring paninis, salads, breakfast items, etc. The West University location boasts an almost industrial atmosphere with many plants and greenery to balance the brutalist interior. My usual order comprises of their refresher and a chicken pesto panini which is mouthwateringly good.

Heading over to the Montrose/Mid-town area, near HCC central campus, we can find tons of vibrant shops. For a lively coffee shop, be sure to visit Agora, on Westheimer Road. This coffee shop is always packed, rightfully so. Parking is also a hassle. If you’ve ever frequented Montrose, you’re aware of the difficulty of finding a parking spot where your car will not get towed.  The interior is quite cozy with the hardwood floors, abundance of plants, and Greek-themed decor. On Wednesday nights they have belly dancing which is always entertaining. Their menu is packed with many different kinds of coffees, teas, and their specialty smoothie.

While you’re in the Montrose area, head over right next door to the Old Blue House. The owner, Linda Mann, is incredibly nice. While speaking to her I learned the shop has been in business for nearly 30 years. The shop offers plenty of vintage knickknacks, cassettes, CDs, records, jewelry, and tableware. The Montrose area is also famous for its walkable street of thrift shops and the weekly Sunday Montrose market.

Another coffee shop with amazing food is Sunday Press. Located 12 minutes away from HCC’s Northline Campus, this shop is nestled within Houston’s historic Heights district. At Sunday Press you can enjoy a Burrata Caprese toast which is to die for, mixing sweet and savory flavors with prosciutto and burrata on top. You can also book a private study room for group projects/meetings.

The Heights is known for its small local shops like Kaboom Books, which is located a convenient 14 minutes away. The shop has the most stunning interior, featuring book-lined walls and an in-house pet cat. The shop also has a patio in the back and the owners are extremely helpful and willing to go out of their way to ensure you find what you’re looking for.

After all this studying, you can end your productive day off with a Smashburger from Jethro Cocktail Lounge. This low-lit bar, offers $7 Smashburger and fries, with sauce on the house if you dine before 7 PM. The interior features booths and a bar, at which you place your order. They have tons of parking and are located near downtown.