Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.
Da Vinci’s Cafe, formerly known as the Cheese Court, offers (in theory) an assortment of gourmet sandwiches, baked goods, and coffee-based drinks. They have a reputation for being a bit pricey, as far as a student budget is concerned, but for making up for their high prices with a bit of cozy ambiance and free WiFi. Where else could you munch a tomato and mozzarella sandwich while chilling on a comfy couch, looking at paintings by local artists, and surfing the ‘net?
Well, not at Da Vinci’s – at least, not any more. Recent research (a visit for lunch) shows that while prices remain the same, Da Vinci’s has cut its atmosphere, its staff, as well as most of its menu and stock. When I went, they were out of vegetarian chili, non-vegetarian soup, chicken, and American cheese. I ended up with a grilled cheese (decent, but nothing to write home about) and wondered why I’d bothered getting out of bed.
Think of how Sharples feels during the days leading up to a long break, and imagine that feeling turned into a restaurant, and you’ve got Da Vinci’s. Bleak, overpriced, and you can get free wireless at Dunkin’ Donuts.
Oh, but the iced latte is so delicious that I don’t need anything else! Plus, I’d rather support an individual business than Dunkin’ Donuts, which has no atmosphere to speak of plus sucky coffee.
Never been a fan.
Dunkin’ Donuts iced lattes are the absolute bomb! The regular belnd is the best American roast I’ve ever had ANYWHERE on the planet. Are you kidding me, Kate?
Of course, individual tastes vary WIDELY and Kate likes what Kate likes, but DD coffee simple]y rules the coffee planet. It’s not a salon or a poetry slam site, but if you want the coffee, that’s where you go.
Also it’s not a corporate conglomorate like Buc$–all shops are locally owned franchises–someone in your neighborhood owns the ones near you and actually goes to them every day.