Mocha from Barista de Casa- 4 stars

This was a good, hot drink. The coffee was exceptionally strong in this beverage and especially on the chocolate flavor, which was faint. I will admit that I don’t drink my coffee black, but that I do enjoy sweeter espresso drinks such as lattes and cappuccinos. I found the coffee to be a bit strong for me but I would definitely drink this mocha if I needed something to wake me up in the morning. I would recommend this drink to people who enjoy their espresso very strong and need a boost for the day or night.

The location is on the Square and next to the Jesse James Bank and Museum and while you have to look for it on the side of a building, it is a true hidden gem. The atmosphere at Barista de Casa was comfortable and friendly, and the service was excellent. It wasn’t busy but it had enough people in there to make the place abundant. I really loved how this is a locally owned place and that made it even cozier. Overall I loved all that Barista de Casa had to offer.

Mocha from Caribou Coffee- 5 stars

This was one of my favorite beverages. This mocha had a distinct chocolate flavor and smell. The chocolate flavor took over the coffee flavor, which if you’re not a heavy coffee drinker like me, it’s perfect. The coffee in it was strong, but not as strong as the coffee in the mocha I had at Barista de Casa. It had whipped cream in it, which made it sweeter, and gave it a creamy, smooth taste. It’s the perfect drink to wake you up in the morning or give you a jumpstart for your day.

As far as the atmosphere at Caribou Coffee, there were many armchairs and couches people could sit at and a fireplace, all of these made the place very warm and inviting. I felt that the location was really convenient for students because it’s right across the street from Hy-Vee and next to their gas station. The employees were nice and polite, and the place wasn’t too busy but not dead. I will definitely be coming back to Caribou for more coffee and friendly service.

Papa’s Coffee Express- 4 Stars

I visited both Papa’s Coffee Express and Starbucks, at each location I ordered a Caramel Frappuccino

Papa’s Coffee Express is an old drive-through bank that has been transformed into a convenient, locally owned and delicious coffee shop. Papa’s, located in the parking lot right across from Feldman’s. It has great coffee, great service, and great prices. Immediately when I entered the shop I felt welcomed; I really liked the décor, which contains local artwork and posters. Papa’s is small, however there is seating space if you want to stay to enjoy your fresh brewed drink or on occasion live music, it’s a very relaxing place. The service at Papa’s is exceptional; every time I have had the opportunity to visit the baristas have been sure to create an atmosphere that is calm and enjoyable. The convenient location makes it a great stop for LHS students. The optional drive through provides a quick convenient stop for busy customers. I think it would be nice if Papa’s had outdoor seating, but it doesn’t seem ideal due to the location. I give Papa’s a 4 out of 5 star rating. Papa’s Coffee Express is definitely worth a visit; you’ll love the coffee, atmosphere, and people.

I prefer Papa’s Coffee Express because it is locally owned and the atmosphere is unique there isn’t any other place like it. The baristas at Papa’s are genuinely kind and the atmosphere is cozy. Although it is small, Papa’s is individual, it offers a little of Liberty along with your visit.

Starbucks- 3 Stars

I also visited the more popular coffee franchise, Starbucks, for another take on the coffee available in Liberty. The staff at Starbucks was very kind, however Starbucks is often busy so it took a while to get my drink. The atmosphere at Starbucks is warm and inviting -good for catching up with friends or studying. At Starbucks they have a larger seating space where you can stay and enjoy your coffee. Starbucks does not offer very many food choices; I wish that they had a wider variety. Starbucks also has a drive through, however the line is often wrapped around the vehicle entrance; if you want your coffee quickly I suggest going inside. Since Starbucks is a franchise, it has a known image that it upholds across the nation, there are so many like it, I would say the only thing that sets Liberty’s apart is the kind staff. I give Starbucks s 3 out of 5 star rating.