4 out of 5 stars

As a caffeine connoisseur and a busy college student, I’m always on the hunt for good coffee shops. I’m looking for places with top-notch drinks, a welcoming atmosphere and the kind of environment where you can actually get some studying done. Recently, I had the chance to visit Hold Fast Coffee, and it just might check all the boxes.  

Hold Fast is located about 10 minutes from campus, right across from the Target on Academy Blvd. The shop offers great study seating for individuals, as well as large tables that are perfect for groups. If the weather is nice, you can also enjoy their outdoor patio area, which connects to the inside through a large garage door. 

When you first walk in, you’re greeted by a wall of hanging plants and colorful murals that give the space a welcoming vibe. Most of the people inside were working on their laptops, so the noise level stayed pretty low. One thing to note: there aren’t a lot of easily accessible outlets, so be sure to charge your laptop beforehand. 

As far as the menu goes, Hold Fast offers a wide variety of options, including breakfast sandwiches, pastries, matcha, coffee and tea. Heads-up: the kitchen closes at 2 p.m., so if you’re hoping to grab a sandwich, make sure to get there earlier in the day. 

Pricing is a little mixed. Sandwiches are around $13, pastries are about $6 and coffee prices vary depending on the size and type. Overall, I’d say the food is slightly expensive, but the drink prices are pretty average for a coffee shop. 

I ordered an iced lavender matcha latte and a cinnamon twist pastry, both recommended by the barista. I have to say, the matcha was one of the better lavender lattes I’ve had. The lavender flavor tasted fresh and natural and the matcha wasn’t bitter. However, if you prefer your matcha less sweet, this one might not be for you.  

The cinnamon twist was absolutely delightful. It was buttery, flaky and tasted like a croissant and a cinnamon roll had a baby. 

For anyone with food allergies, they do offer a few gluten-free options and milk alternatives for drinks, which is a nice bonus. 

Overall, Hold Fast is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a chill study spot close to campus. The atmosphere is perfect for students who want a quieter place to focus, while maintaining that coffee shop vibe. The food and drinks are definitely worth trying, even if they’re a little on the pricier side. 

Hold Fast Coffee located on Montebello Square Dr. Photo by Anysia Hovel.