Academic Coffee
499 S Second St, Santa Clara, CA
Crema's Take
“Tucked into a surprisingly charming corner of a Santa Clara parking garage entrance, Academic Coffee has built a devoted following around their inventive matcha creations—think banana cream matcha and guava matcha with guava cream—that strike the rare balance of being visually stunning yet not cloyingly sweet. The shop pairs these signature drinks with fresh pastries like their lauded morning buns, though service can feel a bit rushed during peak morning hours, and their execution is slightly inconsistent depending on what you order.”
What to expect
Strong matcha and tea selection, with creative signature drinks. Pastries on the menu.
Google Reviews
Academic Coffee is an odd little spot. It’s right in the driveway entrance to a parking garage for an apartment building, and the entrance is kinda tucked around the opposite side of the building from the parking. Also, beware if you have a car that’s even remotely low to the…
Stopped by Academic Coffee in Santa Clara around 9:30am and ordered the banana cream matcha—and honestly, that drink alone deserves 5 stars. It was delicious, not overly sweet, and you can clearly taste both the banana and the matcha without one overpowering the other. Smooth,…
I had a hot pandan latte, which was just ok. I might go back to try something else though. I felt a bit of a rush by the staff when placing the order, and she didn't smile. It was 9am and they weren't really busy. The shop had cute sitting for small group inside, but plenty of…
Matcha was pretty yummy here! I like the banana cream from bloom bagels more but the banana cream here was not bad. My sister's seasonal drink the cranberry strawberry matcha was better imo, the jam made it thicker which I liked. Be careful pulling into the parking lot if your…
Academic coffee is worth the hype. After finally being able to try their guava matcha with guava cream, I finally understand the long line outside. The matcha drink was so good. The morning bun was delicious. The outside seating area was so inviting. I will definitely be coming…
Crema Reviews
You might also like
Café LaTTea
★ 4.4 (585)
Café LaTTea is a vibrant student hub in Santa Clara that nails both coffee…
Hello Kitty Cafe
★ 3.7 (143)
This is a full-blown Sanrio fan pilgrimage destination where Instagram-worthy…
Arwa Yemeni Coffee
★ 4.7 (288)
Arwa Yemeni Coffee is a beautifully designed sanctuary that honors Yemeni…
Voyager Craft Coffee - Santa Clara University
★ 4.5 (490)
This neighborhood gem in Santa Clara has won over locals with its genuinely…