Academic Coffee

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 ground. The entrance to the parking lot is extremely steep, and you can bottom out very easily. All that strangeness aside, the drinks here seem pretty solid. Although a bit expensive. I got the banana cream matcha latte and was pretty happy with it. The shop itself was pretty nice, but a little small. I was also a little bummed that they didn’t have any sort of microwave or oven to quickly heat up their backed goods. Overall, not a bad spot.

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, balanced, and really well done. That said, the overall experience brought the rating down a bit. When I walked in, there was no greeting or simple “hello,” and I noticed the same with others coming in while I waited. The guy who took my order just said “what can I get you” with no eye contact, which didn’t feel very welcoming. Not a huge deal, but a friendly vibe goes a long way—especially at a coffee shop. Parking is also pretty rough. There are only 6–30 minute spots, which were completely full, and some cars were clearly parked longer than allowed. I got lucky with street parking, but it could easily be a hassle. Overall, amazing drink, but the lack of warmth and difficult parking brought it to 3.5 stars. I’d come back for the matcha, just hoping for a more welcoming experience next time.

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 chairs and tables outside the beautiful front yard. There was free parking on the side and the back of the building.

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 car is closer to the ground, the dip is huge so it could hit the bottom of your car as you go over it.

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 back here. One important factor to note is that parking is free, but very limited! Be careful parking on the street and in the residential area as cars are subject to towing. Regardless this was a great experience and I can’t wait to try more!