Sometimes Creighton’s old Green Mountain cup of coffee just doesn’t cut it. For those looking to expand their coffee horizons and try something new, I went off the beaten mall and composed a list of some of the best coffee shops in the Omaha area. From family-owned staples and non-profits starters to hipster hidden gems, you’re sure to find a new favorite spot for your caffeine fix.

No. 1     13th Street Coffee Co.

I’m just going to say it: hands down the best coffee. Sure, parking can be a pain just like any Old Market locale, but it’s well worth it. 13th Street Coffee is the only family-owned coffeehouse left in downtown Omaha and their family-friendly service speaks for itself. A coffee order can quickly turn into a conversation about music or the new arrivals at the Flying Worm Vintage just down the road.

The ambiance is cozy and laid back, there’s a witty sign that reads “friends don’t let friends drink at Starbucks,” it’s a great place for people watching, the upstairs area is a hidden gem of a study spot, the gelato bar is most definitely a plus and the entire wall of coffee bean varieties to choose from is daunting in the best possible way.

For those of you who aren’t coffee drinkers, don’t fret; they also have an impressive tea selection. Local art is sold right off the walls, supporting Omaha artists, and they are always open to up-and-coming poets, artists or musicians who want to feature their work. A downtown comfort zone with great coffee and the kind of service that instantly makes you feel like a regular, 13th Street Coffee Co. is definitely a place where you can lose track of time.

No. 2     Caffeine Dreams

Yes, the coffee is good and tea is even better, but I go to Caffeine Dreams for the eclectic atmosphere. Every barista seems to have their own back story: struggling artist working to make ends meet, mellow slam poet, the vegan dude who loves to bake and play his bongos. I suppose this place is a “hipster” alternative to Scooter’s, Starbucks and Crane coffees. Their menu has a lot of variety, gluten-free options included, and various works by local artists can be seen on every wall.

The “Pipe Dream” regular coffee is always a safe choice, but my go-to is their chai latte. There are plenty of people who come to study, some just chat, others sketch. Personally, I don’t find the seating especially comfortable unless I luck out on a comfy armchair. But, it’s not nearly as busy in the morning if I want to snag a study spot. As the weather gets warmer, I definitely recommend the outdoor patio garden.

No. 3     Urban Abbey

Just a couple years ago, Soul Desires bookstore, a longtime Old Market staple, opened their doors to a new partnership. With the help of the Nebraska Conference of the United Methodist Church, Urban Abbey became part bookstore, part non-profit coffee shop and faith community.

I am in love with the unique concept of Urban Abbey, whose mission is to support other local non-profits like Project Interfaith and Nebraska AIDS Project, but their local artisan coffee is just as great. Beansmith fair-trade coffee and founder Chris Smith has been with them from the very beginning. From Jim the barista and Michelle the book keeper, to Debra the executive director who often visits for community partner and church meetings, everyone involved with Urban Abbey is warm and inviting.

Founded on principles of social justice and sustainability, not only is the coffee free-trade, but everything from tables, chairs and shelves are recycled from reclaimed wood. This place has a lot to offer and at prices lower than your average coffee shop, without all the extra specialty drink options, the mochas and lattes are a steal.

No. 4     Aromas

Sleek and refined, Aromas offers a beautiful atmosphere and very comfortable seating indoor or outdoor. Like Urban Abbey, they also use Beansmith local roaster. Coffee, espresso and French press drink options are high quality and they have a pretty good deal on refills, but keep in mind that prices are overall a little steeper.

I think Aromas is probably the college student’s study hall of choice due to the quiet, spacious environment and of course the sweet late-night bakery temptations. Their lemon bars are to die for, the lattes are respectable and the tea selection is decent. One thing is for sure: if I wasn’t a frugal college student and I was living in Old Market Lofts, Aromas would become a daily caffeine fix.

No. 5     Blue Line Coffee

Always a safe choice, but a more commercial one. Chill atmosphere, reasonable prices, great parking and it never seems to be too crowded. The jazz background music is a nice touch and the soups and sandwiches are always fresh; the veggie panini with provolone is my favorite. The service is pretty standard, not especially friendly early in the morning but then again, being the anti-morning person that I am, I’m never in the mood to strike up a conversation with a barista before 9 a.m.

To be honest, I’ve always gone to Blue Line out of convenience because it’s close. Drip coffee of whatever their house brew happens to be that day or a chai tea is usually my go-to, but watch out for refills; they charge half price which is kind of obnoxious. It’s not my first choice, but I would choose it over a coffee chain like Starbucks.