Step into my office
Working from home full time has its perks, well actually a bunch of perks. But one of them is the ability to start my day at a local coffee shop. I like to check my email, review my calendar and take my first video call or two from one of these shops below. It helps to have a great pair of headphones or AirPods to take calls or listen to different types of music. For me, changing my surroundings is one way for me to stay inspired shake up my day and get a great cup of Joe.
Photo by Dagger Mountain
Dagger Mountain
This is first on my list. The lighting is great, it is very wide open with high ceilings and the decor is beautiful and chic. This list isn’t in any order except for this one because its so nice, clean and the coffee is stellar.
Photo by Fluid Coffee Bar
Fluid Coffee Bar - Downtown Valparaiso
Fluid is near and dear to my heart. The owners have been big supporters of my art from the moment they opened. I’ve shown at this location a couple times and they commissioned a large piece for their Michigan City location (not on this list because its not within a 5 min. drive for this purpose of this post). Fluid is super chill, the staff is welcoming and there is a down town Chicago type vibe. The coffee is excellent and the atmosphere can be loud at times. They have a great brand and the products are well done.
Photo by Fluid Coffee Bar
Fluid Bosco - Valpo South
Fluid’s second location is just a few blocks from the original location in downtown. This spot is little smaller and a lot brighter from its great big Windows. This location does have a podcast room you can reserve and use. It is a great spot for a video call because its nice and quite.
Photo by Blackbird Cafe
Blackbird Cafe
At a previous job I use to go to Black Bird 5 days a week, these days I try to hit it up at least 5 times a month. Blackbird has great breakfast sandwiches, always fresh drip coffee a nice bakery selection and a welcoming vibe. It is usually loud, busy and pretty active with people coming and going. The wifi is strong and the people are great. The owner has also been supportive of my art and I’ve sold a ton of work through the shop.
Uptown Cafe
Uptown Cafe is the local college spot, its located right outside the campus of Valparaiso University and is a busy, loud and active coffee shop. It’s a great spot to meet someone for a drink and some food. The owners also started a craft soda company and they are so good and full of flavor. One downfall for this spot is the parking you can get lucky and find street parking but you never know. Its pretty loud for a video call too even with the best noise canceling.
Roots Market Cafe
Roots is the only juice spot on this list and one of my favorite places to be. The juices are like meal replacements and they are packed with all sorts of goodness. There is a lower level seating area that is away from the counter and is a great place to get some work done. I’m a little partial to Roots since I redesigned their logo and I’m friends with the owners. But it really is a good spot to get work done and the quietest place on this list.
There is a Starbucks close by and a Biggby Coffee but I prefer the local shops over the big boys. Hope this helps with selecting a coffee shop to work out of. I’m lucky to have so many options so close to home. If you see me working say hi.