A sandwich, cheesecake and specialty drinks sit on a table at Haraz Coffee House in Fairfax, Va., on March 5, 2026. (Avi Terali / Fourth Estate)

A look at the cafes Mason students rely on for studying, socializing and staying energized

BY AVI TERALI, STAFF WRITER

The hiss of the espresso machine, the low hum of conversation, the comfort of that first sweet sip — coffee shops are the heartbeat of college life. 

Coffee shops play an important role in the daily routines of many Mason students. Whether it’s grabbing a quick drink before class, settling in for a long study session or meeting friends between assignments, cafes around campus offer a mix of comfort, atmosphere and convenience. 

Several cafes near Mason stand out for their unique environments, quality drinks and reliable study spaces. 

Haraz Coffee House

Located on Main Street in Fairfax, Haraz Coffee House offers a warm and inviting atmosphere from the moment you walk in. The scent of cardamom and freshly roasted beans fill the air, and the staff greet customers with a genuine friendliness that immediately sets a positive tone. The interior blends modern design with traditional Yemeni influences – gold accents, patterned tiles and soft lighting – that create a cozy, elevated feel. 

Haraz is especially appealing for students looking to settle in with their laptops. The cafe provides ample seating, calm background music and a steady flow of customers. 

The menu ranges from ethnic dishes to modern cafe staples, offering everything from savory sandwiches to rich desserts. The mango matcha, one of their most popular specialty drinks, blends earthy matcha with bright mango for a smooth refreshing sweetness. 

“Haraz Cafe is really nice and has a clean aesthetic,” freshman Christina Tran said. “It has a polished look that feels modern.” 

Whether you’re studying for an exam or catching up on readings, Haraz offers a comfortable balance of energy and calm. 

De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches

Situated near the center of Old Town Fairfax, De Clieu is bright and open, with tall windows that bring in steady natural light and give the cafe a warm airy feel. The environment is lively, but never too overbearing for the quiet crowd. It attracts a mix of students, remote workers and families throughout the day. 

The menu includes sandwiches, crepes and specialty drinks, as well as their famous house-made syrups. The vanilla bean latte, one of the specialty drinks made with their house-made vanilla syrup, has a mix of sweet vanilla and bitter espresso which makes every sip simple but delicious.

Sandwiches, iced drinks and a layered dessert sit on a table at De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches, a popular study spot in Fairfax, Va., on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. (Avi Terali / Fourth Estate)

The location is also only a 15 to 20 minute walk from campus, making it a great option for on-campus students who are looking for a change of scenery.

With plenty of tables, reliable Wi-Fi and a layout that accommodates both solo work and group study sessions, De Clieu remains one of the most dependable study spots for Mason students. 

Bakery Museum & Co.

For those looking for a quieter, more intimate environment, Bakery Museum & Co. offers a refreshing change of pace. Tucked away from the busier parts of Fairfax, this cafe has an artsy, cozy interior that feels almost like a creative studio. Soft lighting, small tables and displays of baked goods create a warm, inviting atmosphere. 

The cafe specializes in fresh pastries, classic espresso drinks and seasonal matcha flavors, making it a great choice for students who want a study spot with a diverse menu. The calm environment also makes it ideal for those who prefer a low-key, slower-paced study spot. 

As an added bonus, Bakery Museum & Co offers a discount to Mason students who present their student ID at the register. 

Dunkin’ Donuts

Located next to Piedmont Hall on campus with another nearby location in University Mall, Dunkin’ Donuts remains a convenient option for students who need something quick and familiar. The atmosphere is fast-paced, with customers constantly moving in and out between classes. 

The bright lighting and steady foot traffic makes it less suited for long study sessions, but its affordability and speed make it a reliable stop for early-morning coffee runs or a last minute breakfast. 

Each cafe brings something different to the Mason community, giving students reliable places to work, meet friends or take a break. With so many options close to campus, finding a good cup of coffee is never difficult.