The magical, dark-brown substance, coffee, makes the world go ‘round. It’s crunch-time sustenance.
It’s no wonder that students everywhere seek refuge in coffeehouses, especially during exam week.
They’re great. You get to avoid your nagging mom and the barking dogs, and, of course, you get a relatively unlimited supply of a wonderful, safe psychoactive drug.
But here’s the problem. Which one?
Sure, there’s a Starbucks around every corner, but the coffee isn’t great, and they lack character.
So The Chocolate Fish (4749 Folsom Blvd.) is a pretty good alternative.
Unfortunately, it seems like Fish is always loud—much louder than similar venues like Temple and Tupelo. The eeeek sound the espresso machine makes is pretty constant.
My guess is that it’s worse due to the acoustics of the concrete floor.
Also, for those of you that use the Internet while studying, Chocolate Fish has none.
On the door, the sign reads something like “no Wi-Fi to promote social interaction.” Crunchy, I know.
It’s a neat idea, but it’s also an inconvenience. On the other hand, it could work in your advantage if you find yourself distracted by web-surfing.
Despite its shortcomings, Chocolate Fish has the best coffee I’ve had in Sacramento. I’m no coffee connoisseur, but the lattes are deliciously frothy.
And while I’m a bit of a coffee-tasting novice, there’s something about the espresso that’s perfect.
It’s not too strong, and it’s not too weak.
In terms of atmosphere, decor and fellow clientele, Chocolate Fish is a decent study spot.
The seating is modern with extremely high, raised wooden stools and other artisanal furniture.
Apart from the noise and the lack of Wi-Fi, Chocolate Fish is a good alternative to Starbucks. And it’s also in a great area, right next to One Speed and Burr’s just in case you want to grab a bite to eat.
Bottom line? You’ll probably walk out of Chocolate Fish with a slight case of the jitters, while whistling the “Java Jive.”
I love coffee, I love tea
I love the Java Jive and it loves me
Coffee and tea and the java and me
A cup, a cup, a cup, a cup, a cup. Ah!
