Looking for a chill spot to hang out, study or grab a great cup of coffee? Whether you’re into cozy corners, aesthetic decor, or just want the best latte in town, downtown Salem is home to several coffee shops that will meet your needs. These trendy locations are perfect for everything from group study sessions to solo coffee breaks. However, Many Willamette students may recognize these names, as they frequently arise in conversations. Read on to find your new favorite local cafe or to refresh your memory!
Our first point on the coffee tour is Isaac’s Downtown coffee shop. Isaac’s is spacious inside and furnished with wooden chairs, tables and comfortable soft coaches. The bench of plants, light bulbs suspended on metal beams, and the bar painted with geometric colored lines creates the impression of a minimalist interior with notes of cubism. Some inspiring phrases on the walls such as “Make Life Better” and “You Are The Hero of Your Story” will give you motivation to start your day with confidence.
If you’re looking for a place to get work done, the cozy lo-fi music in Isaac’s also fosters a great environment to help you concentrate. “Those just looking to rest are in luck as well,” Rebecca Bezzina (’26) made clear. According to Bezzina, the prices range from $3 to $6 for coffee, and while she’s tried multiple coffee places in Salem, Isaac’s is her favorite. The coffee shop offers a variety of drinks and foods, but Bezzina said she always gets a latte.
Another popular coffee shop in Salem is Archive Coffee & Bar. If you want to drink coffee with friends and have loud and lively conversations, Archive is an excellent choice. The interior is old-fashioned, adorned with various vintage decorations placed on the shelves including old photos and books, mechanical clocks, CD players, vases, glass bottles, candles and lamps. Don't miss your chance to go there during warm, sunny days because they also have comfortable seats outside. Even outside, you’ll still feel the retro aesthetic — 80s-style music is often playing overhead. The price for coffee at Archive varies from $3 to $7, and the cost for desserts is about $10 to $12.
Archive has “immaculate vibes,” according to Athena VanDyke (LAW ’27). She doesn't go there for homework, but sometimes if she and her friends want to feel fancy and just chat, they go to Archive. “It's a calming atmosphere, the decor is great and my favorite drink is chai tea," VanDyke said.
The last coffee shop on our list is Ike Box Cafe. The atmosphere at this cafe will take you directly to the European 18th century. The entrance opens into a huge room with a high ceiling, wooden tables and chairs, and large pictures on the walls. The cherry on top is the spacious stage in the middle of the shop, where you can watch the occasional music performance. Beyond the beautiful architecture, Ike Box also has friendly staff that won’t let you leave without delicious coffee and a good mood. If you are searching for a peaceful location where you can study and listen to classical music, Ike Box is the ideal place to go.
Many details make Ike Box a favorite for Ernest Jones (’28). One of the coffee shop’s greatest draws is its proximity to campus, about a 10-minute walk. Another feature is its beautiful neoclassical architecture. “[Ike Box] looks like it was taken straight from Europe, a ballroom, and they have these beautiful pictures of angels. The atmosphere is amazing; they always play classical music,” Jones described. Whenever he comes to Ike Box, Jones's favorite to-go drink is a matcha latte. According to Jones, the order typically costs about $10, including coffee and pastry.
Downtown Salem’s coffee world offers a delightful mix of unique atmospheres and friendly vibes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to study, a place to catch up with friends, or just a good cup of joy to kickstart your day, there’s something for everyone. So, explore these local gems next time you’re in the mood for caffeine!