The lab-centered course teaches how to go from raw coffee beans to the perfect cup of coffee

By COLINA HARVEY — sports@theaggie.org

Caffeine is a staple of every college campus, and many students in Davis have experienced the fun of pulling a caffeine-fueled all-nighter in preparation for an exam. Caffeine most commonly comes in the form of coffee, which is sold at many locations on campus. Although most students consume coffee from time to time, the process of growing, roasting and brewing coffee is unknown to many.

That is where ECH 001: Design of Coffee comes in. ECH 001 was voted the Best General Education (GE) course at UC Davis this year for being fun, hands-on and, overall, interesting. The three-unit class satisfies science and engineering, visual literacy and scientific literacy requirements.

While the main topic of the course is, of course, coffee, it is actually designed to be an introduction to chemical engineering. In the course, students learn how chemical engineers find ways to turn raw materials into something more useful. The process of making coffee demonstrates this principle by taking coffee beans, a natural raw material, and converting them into a drink that gives people energy.

For many students who are not studying engineering, taking engineering courses can be daunting due to their difficult reputation, which is often the last thing students are looking for in a GE. However, ECH 001 provides an approachable way for any student to explore engineering.

Mruthi Praburam, a first-year mathematical analysis and operations research major, took ECH 001 this past winter quarter.

“As someone who’s not a huge science person, it was a really nice introduction into chemical engineering and what exactly you can do with chemistry,” Praburam said. “I think it’s very beneficial for all students.”

UC Davis is known for its food science and agricultural programs, so it makes sense that this is the school to offer an undergraduate course about coffee. The unique nature of the course is also what makes it appealing to students, because it is typically not offered at most other universities.

The class was started by Professors Tonya Kuhl and William Ristenpart in 2013. It started as a first-year seminar with only 18 students, but now, the class is taken by around 800 students per quarter.

Alyse Cho, a second-year design major, also took the class during winter quarter 2025.

“[The class] was very fun and educational but very engaging as well because you get to do a lot of hands-on experience,” Cho said. “I definitely did learn a lot about how coffee beans are grown and how the origin of different coffee beans alters their taste and their fragrance.”

The class wraps up with a design contest where small groups of students compete to make the best tasting cup of coffee using the least amount of energy. The competition perfectly embodies the hands-on style of the class, with students tasting each other’s brews and rating them.

“I have been recommending [ECH 001] to literally all my friends,” Praburam said. “I’m like, ‘You guys should take the coffee class.’”

So, if you are interested in exploring chemical engineering or just learning how to make a really good cup of coffee, check out ECH 001.

Written by: (Colina Harvey) — sports@theaggie.org

Just a couple of hours away, Lake Tahoe offers beautiful elevated sights, skiing and more

By BETH MUNRO-MORRIS — arts@theaggie.org

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe offers a dramatic change of scenery from the flat, farmland expanse of Davis. Its crystal clear waters, towering pines and crisp alpine air make it stand out as one of California’s most iconic natural wonders. Lake Tahoe provides the ideal overnight escape for those seeking outdoor adventure or even just a break from the stifling Central Valley heat.

Straddling the California-Nevada border, the Tahoe region blends rustic charm with bursts of vibrant nightlife. You can spend your day carving down snow-covered slopes or hiking misty trails, and your night hopping between casinos, bars or cozy cabin fires. Rain or shine, summer or winter, Lake Tahoe invites both the nature lover and adrenaline junkie all year round.

In its colder months, Lake Tahoe transforms into a snow-draped playground for skiers and snowboarders alike. Resorts such as Palisades and Heavenly draw seasoned skiers with steep, mogul-strewn runs.

For those craving a more laid-back day on the slopes, or simply a more wallet-friendly experience, resorts like Sugar Bowl and Diamond Peak deliver breathtaking summit views without the steeper prices or crowds. Whether you’re chasing double black diamonds or here for the apres-ski scene, winter in Tahoe has something for every type of snow lover.

As the snow melts, Tahoe reveals a whole new side: one marked by sapphire waters and secluded trails. The hiking opportunities are endless. Consider Mount Tallac or Maggie’s Peak for a more strenuous climb met with panoramic views. If you’re looking for gentler loops  that wind through forests and alongside streams, the Fallen Leaf or the Rainbow trail are ideal options, and both are under two miles.

Many trails intersect with waterfalls or icy mountain streams, providing the perfect excuse to strip down and dive in after a long, demanding hike. If you’ve ever braved the chemical murkiness of Putah Creek, then Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters are an undeniable upgrade.

With easy public access to beaches on both the north and south shores, Tahoe is a sun lover’s paradise. Don’t be fooled by its cooler temperatures as the generous high-altitude sun makes it prime territory for anyone committed to a good tan. And when you’re ready to trade lounging for adventure, the lake’s open waters welcome swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and parasailing — just take your pick.

No Tahoe trip is complete without a detour through Truckee: a charming, rugged town that feels plucked from the scenes of a Western film. Bisected by a still-operating railway, Truckee feels frozen in time, from its weathered wooden architecture to its locally owned boutiques. From vintage stores and eclectic plant shops to family-owned bakeries and retro diners, everything in Truckee is perfectly curated to offer a slower side of Tahoe’s region.

And if you’re committed to the overnight part of your stay — which you should — the fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets. Tahoe’s nightlife can vary from wholesome campfire drinks and star-gazing to full-blown casino chaos.

Over 21 and in the mood for “free” drinks? Then head over to the Nevada side of town and immerse yourself in the classic allure of a casino town: flashing lights, slot machines and roulette wheels.

Not every weekend should be spent in Shields Library, nose deep in assignments. Sometimes clarity comes from climbing a mountain, hitting the slopes or placing a lucky bet in a smoky and neon-lit room. So pack a bag, gather your friends and replace your cruiser with a mountain bike for the weekend.

Written by: Beth Munro-Morris — arts@theaggie.org 

Looking for something affordable and delicious?: Students believe that In-N-Out is the best option 

By NATALIE SALTER—arts@theaggie.org

Whether you’re coming back from a concert that stretched far into the night or just happen to be craving a midnight snack, it can be hard to find a good place to eat when the sun has long-since set. Many of the restaurants in Downtown Davis close up in the early evening, leaving them off the table until the morning.

Out of the several late-night meal stops, one stays open until 1 a.m. and was voted by Davis residents as the best of the best for an after-dark treat: In-N-Out. The burger and fries fast food joint is located near the Arboretum at 1020 Olive Dr. It’s known not just for its delicious food, but also for its white-and-red color scheme and vintage-style menus.

Located in a college town, In-N-Out is, of course, very popular with the young adult demographic of the Davis population. Juliana Vasquez, a second-year English major, described the environment of the restaurant at night.

“[It’s] very comfy and steeped in the adolescent vibe you only see with college students,” Vasquez said.

With its low prices — a cheeseburger and fries together are under six dollars — In-N-Out is understandably desirable to college students looking to eat out without breaking the bank. It’s likely a huge part of why In-N-Out has remained popular.

In-N-Out also features a not-so-secret “secret menu” which features “animal style” burgers and fries, with extra cheese and a delicious secret sauce. Nara Sirakian, a second-year psychology major, said their secret menu is what makes In-N-Out outshine its other national burger competitors.

“Animal style is superior,” Sirakian said. “People from out of state don’t know.”

If you don’t have time to sit and enjoy your animal fries, you can also zip through the drive-thru. The restaurant’s fast service makes both options easy, so it’s accessible to those on the go and those looking for that certain college-student atmosphere.

This isn’t the first time In-N-Out has won Best Late-Night Snack, either. It has taken home the title for several years in a row, the undefeated champion of after-dark meals. Clearly, In-N-Out is an enduring favorite amongst UC Davis students.

So, what’s the verdict? Take it from UC Davis students and California locals alike:  In-N-Out is the best late-night snack stop around. More than that, though, it’s a beloved restaurant chain even when the sun is up. So, next time you’re out late and feeling a little starved, you know where to stop — and don’t forget to order the animal fries.

Written by: Natalie Salter—arts@theaggie.org

The Davis Farmers Market provides fresh plants, gardening resources and a strong sense of community 

BY JULIE HUANG – arts@theaggie.org

The Davis Farmers Market is a year-round market held in Central Park on Wednesdays and Saturdays, boasting fresh produce alongside an assortment of other cute and eclectic goods. Notable among these offerings are the plants and gardening supplies available, allowing Davis students easy access to leafy home decor or resources to support a gardening hobby.

Jonathan Kim, a second-year psychology and design double major, said that the farmers market is a strong starting point for aspiring gardeners and plant hobbyists who are learning the basics.

“The farmers market has vegetables, gardening [resources] and essential house plants,” Kim said. “It’s great for someone trying to get into planting and gardening.”

Kim added that the effortless shopping experience is accentuated by the farmers market’s inviting atmosphere, smattering of tasty food offerings and potential for positive face-to-face interaction between individuals.

“The farmers market is one of the cutest farmers markets I’ve been to, especially in the fall,” Kim said. “Their apple juice and pastries is a Saturday must-try and it’s also right by the art market, so it’s a fun Davis hangout situation. There’s this one guy that gives you free fruits if you buy from him, [meaning that] he rounds down when you pay and if it’s close to the next number up, he adds a free fruit in there.”

Another notable aspect of the farmers market is its ability to bring different members of the Davis community together in an organic way.

“Apart from buying plants, I personally like going to the farmers market just to sit in the park and watch people live their life,” Kim said. “It’s the perfect spot for people watching.”

Juliana Caldarelli, a second-year English major, agreed that the main value of the farmers market is its community-building quality.

“While I do like a good pastry, and whenever that one cheese guy puts up his stand I go wild, it’s more about interacting with the community, hanging out with your friends and people watching for me,” Caldarelli said. “If you talk to the vendors, they’ll excitedly tell you about their stuff, like this one guy who made ladles with two sides that you can scoop from because he’s left handed.”

Offering a physical area for people of the community to gather together and engage in their hobbies, the farmers market could be thought of as the physical manifestation of the Davis community spirit.

“Last time I went, I watched a gal learning to juggle, a dude continuously putting together and taking apart a sculpture, a bunch of runners stretching together and a dude singing and playing the guitar,” Caldarelli said.

At the farmers market, both the produce and the people are genuine and delightful. With that in mind, visiting the Davis Farmers Market is an excellent choice for those looking to add to their plant collections or fuel their gardening hobby.

Written by: Julie Huang — arts@theaggie.org 

Middle Eastern cuisine takes the cake for the absolute must-try truck

By ELIZABETH BUNT — arts@theaggie.org

Shah’s Halal Food is the epitome of a Davis classic: family-owned and family-run and beloved by students, faculty and locals alike. As one of the only restaurants in the area to specialize in Middle Eastern cuisine, Shah’s is the go-to spot for flavors and spice levels that are hard to find elsewhere in Davis. This year, and not for the first time, Shah’s has won the Best Food Truck award.

On any given day, the iconic bright red Shah’s trucks can be found at two locations around Davis. One truck is always stationed on campus beside the Silo and the other can be found beside the gas station on Russell Boulevard, though when the adjacent area is not under construction, the truck is parked closer to Trader Joe’s.

No matter which location you visit, Shah’s is consistently busy. Out of the many food trucks that frequent the Silo, Shah’s is the one that will always have a line of repeat customers ready to order their favorites once again.

Part of the charm of Shah’s Halal is its simplicity. There are essentially only three menu choices: chicken, lamb or falafel. These can all be served either over rice or as a gyro. Customers have the option of ordering a spicy or mild version of each of these. In either form, the meal comes with a salad topped with a sour cream sauce to offset the spice.

Any way you order, you are guaranteed delicious flavors and a well-balanced meal, as well as great value for the cost.

Lauren Bledsoe, a fourth-year managerial economics major and regular customer of Shah’s, summed up why she keeps coming back to the food truck.

“I like Shah’s Halal because it’s very fast and the quality is the same every time, plus there’s always enough for lunch and dinner,” Bledsoe said. “Also, you get a free drink every time you order a meal, so I feel like I’m really getting my money’s worth.”

With all of these points in its favor, it’s not hard to see why Shah’s Halal consistently tops the charts for Best Food Truck in Davis. Reliable, affordable and delicious, Shah’s remains the Davis favorite for a pick-me-up between classes or just a home-cooked meal on the go. If you haven’t managed to stop by one of the trucks to taste Shah’s Halal’s incredible food, consider this as your sign to go pick up a spicy chicken bowl or a falafel gyro.

Written by: Elizabeth Bunt —-arts@theaggie.org 

Students voted the newly restored, 100-acre area as the ideal location for capturing the UC Davis experience

By SAVANNAH ANNO — arts@theaggie.org

Spring is upon us, meaning that as a UC Davis student, it’s almost criminal to not spend at least 50% of your time enjoying the sun and watching the newest batch of baby ducks waddle across the grass of the Arboretum. Founded in 1936, the Arboretum has come to be known — by students and Davis locals alike — as the perfect place to host picnics, read a good book, bird watch and even hold the occasional folk music jam session.

This year, students have dubbed the Arboretum as the best spot on campus to take graduation photos.

With its rich variety of trees, blooming spring flowers and flowing waterways, there’s no shortage of golden photo opportunities for upcoming graduates looking for a nature-filled backdrop.

“Based on my experience, the [Redwood Grove] is definitely the most popular for grad shoots,” Ara Casiano, a UC Davis alumna and graduation photographer, said. “It’s also a go-to spot for other sessions like family photos because of the beautiful trees and calm atmosphere.”

Perfect for fans of deep browns and greens, the Arboretum’s Redwood Grove thrives year-round and provides a shady respite from the early summer heat. Casiano also said the shade from the trees allows for great photos to be taken at almost any time of day prior to sunset.

If you’re looking for a more unique spot, however, try exploring some of the far corners of the Arboretum. After finishing their waterway construction and refill milestones a year ahead of schedule, this spring quarter is an ideal opportunity to further appreciate the size and scale of the area.

Spots like the Arboretum’s Oak Grove, Ruth Risdon Storer Garden, Carolee Shields White Flower Garden and Gazebo and the Nature’s Gallery Court ceramic mural are all located at the far end of the large area, toward the School of Veterinary Medicine. While they may be a little farther away, the careful curation of plants and art serve as one-of-a-kind, colorful backgrounds.

With countless choices of where in the Arboretum you can take your graduation photos, there’s no such thing as a wrong answer. Having so many locations in one means you’re able to move around, try different things and find the spot that best matches what you’re trying to capture as you celebrate such an important milestone.

Whatever place you settle on, Casiano and Sophie Beifuss, another graduation photographer and current graduate student, provided some helpful tips when it comes to both scheduling and shooting your photos.

“Book as early as possible,” Casiano said. “Slots fill up fast, especially with everyone wanting photos before their ceremonies. Editing usually takes one to two weeks, but sometimes longer depending on the photographer, so it’s best to plan ahead.”

Beifuss also added that booking early can help you avoid the heat that comes with shooting in May or June. Most graduation photographers can be found through Instagram or online and can be booked through direct contact or pre-made booking forms. Casiano’s booking information can be found at her website, arathebellaofgrace.mypixieset.com, while Beifuss’ is located at @sophiebportraits on Instagram.

“For seniors who haven’t had their photos taken yet, I would say bring walking shoes for moving between locations, iron your stole and be confident,” Beifuss said.

Written by: Savannah Anno — arts@theaggie.org 

On-campus student group dedicated to activism wins for second consecutive year

By JALAN TEHRANIFAR — features@theaggie.org

For the second consecutive year, Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) has been named UC Davis’ Best Student-run Organization or Club — an award that comes as no surprise to many on campus given the group’s consistent presence, powerful organizing and unwavering commitment to Palestinian liberation.

The board members of the Students for Justice in Palestine organization are thankful for the recognition they have received from the UC Davis community.

“We are honored to receive this acknowledgement and humbled to be held to the high esteem of our peers,” the SJP board said. “This acknowledgment is not ours alone — it belongs to everyone who continues to show up, speak out and do the vital work in their communities. It is their dedication that shapes who we are.”

Over the course of the 2024-25 academic year, SJP led some of the most prominent political organizing efforts at UC Davis. From packed rallies on the Quad to the multi-week encampment known as the Popular University for the Liberation of Palestine (PULP), the organization has galvanized students around issues of global justice and university accountability.

Their advocacy, however, goes far beyond protest. Throughout the year, SJP hosted film screenings, teach-ins and informational panels aimed at educating students on the historical and ongoing occupation of Palestine. They also continued to call out the University of California system’s financial ties to companies profiting from violence against Palestinians — pressuring administrators to divest and pushing for transparency in how student tuition is spent.

Much of their work this year focused on the university’s inaction following the demands of the encampment. Though student organizers faced harassment from outside agitators and endured extreme heat, they remained committed to the cause, ultimately donating food and supplies from the site to unhoused communities in Davis and Sacramento when the encampment ended​.

SJP’s activism has drawn support from across coalitions. At an Oct. 7, 2024 rally, hundreds gathered alongside other student groups to protest UC ties to military contractors and to call out Chancellor Gary May’s involvement with Leidos, a company with defense contracts linked to Israel. The rally, which was met by a small but vocal counter-protest, highlighted the charged atmosphere on campus — and SJP’s central role in shaping it​.

Despite the challenges, the group continues to expand its reach and influence, building solidarity with other student organizations and connecting Palestine’s liberation to broader struggles across the globe.

“We must remember that our accomplishments are collective ones,” the SJP board said. “Yet, our work is never over, our struggle is slight compared to our brothers and sisters in Palestine. We will continue to be an educational and supportive community for those interested in the Palestinian cause. Palestine is our compass and we will continue our work until a liberated Palestine.”

SJP’s back-to-back recognition as Best Student-run Organization or Club reflects not just the passion of its members, but the shifting landscape of student politics at UC Davis.

Written by: Jalan Tehranifar — features@theaggie.org

42.6% of students voted ultimate frisbee as the best on-campus recreational sport

By EMME DUNNING — features@theaggie.org

Ultimate frisbee is in many ways the quintessential college club sport. Offering students opportunities to get active in a welcoming and low-pressure environment, many have found a tight-knit community through the sport. The UC Davis community has taken note, with ultimate frisbee receiving 42.6% of votes to earn them the title of best club or intramural sport for 2025.

Cynthia Ju, a fourth-year biomedical engineering major, plays for the UC Davis women’s ultimate team — Rogue. Ju was introduced to ultimate frisbee in high school by her brother and fell in love with the unique culture it offered.

“What really kept me going is that the sport is just so welcoming to all different experiences and all different backgrounds,” Ju said. “You get to meet everyone from all walks of life through the sport.”

Ultimate frisbee is self-officiated, meaning there are no referees. Instead, players on both teams work together to uphold a shared set of rules and norms that keep the game running smoothly.

“It’s different from a lot of other traditional team sports where you might have referees on the field making sure that people keep their sportsmanship up,” Ju said. “In frisbee, you make sure that you follow the rules, and everyone keeps the spirit of the game very high.”

Through what proponents of the sport call the “spirit of the game,” athletes themselves create a unique environment of mutual respect that their players have grown to love.

For Charlotte Noroian, a third-year plant sciences major, this has been a welcome change. Noroian grew up playing soccer and was used to the hyper-competitive environment it can often bring. When she came to Davis, she joined ultimate without ever having played before and immediately noticed a shift in the way teammates and opponents treated each other.
“You can tell a difference in how people interact with each other,” Noroian said. “It’s a little bit more respectful, and it’s a little less cutthroat.”

Noroian also commented on the way this inclusive culture creates opportunities outside of just athletics.

“My favorite part is the community it fosters,” Noroian said. “I think doing sports and socializing go well together. It makes it easier to exercise, and the sport is obviously really fun, but I would say that the people are what make it amazing.”

Sofia Massingill, a third-year environmental policy analysis and planning major and the current co-president for Rogue, asserted that this culture is something that the team works hard to maintain and teach the next generation of players.

“We try to be very cognizant of [being] an open community where everyone feels welcome to get a little bit active, learn something new and meet some new people,” Massingill said.

By continuing to foster this unique culture, the team is confident that ultimate frisbee will thrive at UC Davis for years to come.

Written by: Emme Dunning — features@theaggie.org

Shields Library remains one of the most popular study spots for Davis students

By NOAH HARRIS — features@theaggie.org

Shields Library, UC Davis’ largest building by square feet, has been voted the best study spot in Davis. Situated in the heart of campus, it has both indoor and outdoor areas to study, as well as its infamous study cages for graduate students to lock in — both literally and figuratively.

With areas for different conversation volume levels, as well as nooks that probably have not been touched in decades, Shields Library is extremely versatile and is ideal for a wide range of study habits.

Built in 1940, Shields Library has a long history and has now accumulated over 10 million volumes. Ranked as one of the top 100 academic research libraries in North America, it has over 1.7 million visitors annually.

Erika Glass, a second-year sociology — organizational studies major, mentioned the diverse areas the library serves for its patrons.

“Each level has something new to offer,” Glass said. “For me personally, I always go to the second floor because I can only study and get work done in a quiet space with no distractions. So I always go to the second floor where those individual desks are right by the window. And I sit in one of those desks and get work done.”

For University Librarian and Vice Provost of Digital Scholarship William Garrity, the variety of places to have conversation or study silently is important.

“We don’t expect people to be quiet,” Garrity said. “If you want to be quiet, we’ve got quiet areas in the upper floors, but if you want to engage loudly with your study groups, we’re all for that, and [we] try to support that.”

Glass said the library’s ambiance encapsulates the college experience.

“It just makes it feel so college,” Glass said. “Going to the library is just such a college thing to do. Doing that and reminding yourself that you are a college student, you’re trying to get your work done, you’re trying to be productive. The library really helps with that.”

Garrity said the library reminds him of the collaborative experience of being at UC Davis.

“It’s incredibly dorky, but joy and happiness,” Garrity said. “Students are in here working hard or not working hard, working with their friends, their study groups, working alone, sitting in the courtyard, eating lunch, sitting in the courtyard, Zooming with their friends and family. It’s wonderful to me. I mean, I’ve been doing this business for a long, long time, and it’s wonderful to me to see how the library is like a community hub for students.”

While Garrity said he loves the library, he mentioned a few potential improvements in the future for everyone’s benefit.

“I am really personally driven to build a café in the building, because we’re open more hours than any other building on campus,” Garrity said. “We’re open from 7:30 in the morning until midnight. People who spend a lot of time in here want that coffee drink and don’t necessarily want to walk to the [Memorial Union] or the Silo to get it.”

Besides a café, Garrity wants the library to have more group study areas, as well as better electricity and power outlets.

“People come to campus, to the library, to do their academic work, because there’s something, there’s a clue in their head that says, ‘Okay, I’m in Shields,’” Garrity said. “‘It’s time to buckle down on my notes,’ right? And you don’t get that kind of mental focus, that mental reset, if you’re sitting in your dorm room and your mates are walking around having fun, right?”

In terms of recent history, Shields Library has won The California Aggie’s award for Best Study Spot in 2021, 2022 and 2024.

Written by: Noah Harris — features@theaggie.org

Beloved local spot voted Best Coffee by UC Davis students

By RACHEL GAUER — features@theaggie.org

It’s rare to enter Mishka’s Café without finding bustling, intellectual conversations and students intently typing away at their computers. Located at 610 2nd St. in Downtown Davis, the space provides a cozy café space to both the student population and the Davis community as a whole.

The café provides a versatile spot to those looking for a comfortable place for a long morning chat and to students for an inspiring place to study for hours on end. Its unique set-up includes long tables to maximize study space, smaller tables for two and several outdoor seats that line the café’s brick exterior.

Sophie Meissner, a fourth-year international relations major, said she almost always chooses Mishka’s when looking for an afternoon study spot.

“I like the atmosphere when I want to study and be productive,” Meissner said. “There’s always students there which makes it easy to concentrate and motivates me.”

Meissner, also a Davis native, highlighted Mishka’s comforting atmosphere.

“I do usually go to study, but I also go to sit and catch up with friends who I haven’t seen in a long time,” Meissner said. “If I have a friend visiting from out of town, I always take them there.”

Mishka’s opened its doors in 1995 and has since grown into a community staple. The café serves a wide range of coffee and tea beverages as well as pastries and desserts that entice customers in their glass case.

Gabriela Moreno, a fourth-year genetics and genomes major, has been working as a barista at the café for over two years. Moreno highlighted Mishka’s warm atmosphere that sets it apart from other local cafés.

“I think that out of all of the coffee shops in Davis, Mishka’s has the most community feel to it,” Moreno said. “I find that it’s a pretty cozy and homey place, and it seems like other people do, too.”

If you find yourself returning morning after morning for a cappuccino or pastry, you certainly are not the only Mishka’s frequenter — Moreno emphasized the impact of the café’s regulars, which she finds to be a special element of the job.

“I’d say the best thing about Mishka’s is the regulars,” Moreno said. “At any given time, there will be a few regulars in the café, and it’s nice to catch up with them and be on a first-name basis.”

In addition to its community-oriented atmosphere, Mishka’s stands out from other cafés in Davis due to its European-inspired ambiance. Meissner commented on how the café mentally transports her to the city where she spent time studying abroad.

“Since I just got back from a year of studying in Paris, I find Mishka’s is the place that most resembles the coffee shops I studied at,” Meissner said. “It brings me a sense of comfort.”

Mishka’s fosters the European-café ambiance in many ways: The outdoor space lined with tables resembles a classic Parisian street, and the soft jazz music hits customers’ ears as soon as they enter into the iconic brick building.

With its red-orange walls and tall windows perfect for daydreaming and people watching, Mishka’s Café is not only a coffee staple in Davis but also serves as a community-oriented hub in the heart of downtown.

Written by: Rachel Gauer — features@theaggie.org

Trader Joe’s voted Best Grocery Store in Davis for the fourth consecutive year

By GRACIELA TIU — features@theaggie.org.

Yet again, UC Davis students voted for Trader Joe’s as the Best Grocery Store in Davis. Appreciated for its affordable prices, unique signature products and welcoming environment, Trader Joe’s remains one of the most revered grocery hubs to students.

Amelia Lipcsei, a second-year mechanical and aerospace engineering major, described how the atmosphere in Trader Joe’s reflects that of the Davis community.

“The store reflects the Davis community and culture, because it’s [mainly] only students that are shopping there,” Lipcsei said. “Everyone is so laid-back, nice and helpful, and that’s how it is at Davis, too. Everyone’s there to help one another — everyone’s just trying to get their grocery shopping done, same as people on campus: Everyone’s just trying to get their schoolwork done, so it’s a good comparison.”

The location of Trader Joe’s in Davis on Russell Boulevard, along with its relatively low prices, also feels especially convenient for Davis students.

“It stands out to me because it’s so close to campus,” Lipcsei said. “It’s just the most convenient grocery store, and it’s so cheap compared to all the other ones.”

Each Trader Joe’s shopper likely has their personal favorite products that they gravitate toward when browsing.

“They have this marinated Shawarma chicken, and they also have this marinated herb chicken, and I really like it because I don’t have to season the chicken,” Lipcsei said. “I literally just pulled the chicken out of the packaging, put it on a pan [to] fry it, and it’s the easiest thing in the world, and it’s very cheap for me.”

Some of the most exciting products at Trader Joe’s arrive seasonally, for various holidays and times of year.

“For seasonal items, I always look forward to the JoJos, because they always have cool seasonal flavors, and then the tote bags,” Lipcsei said. “They released the tote bags this season, and they were so cute. I really like those. They [also] have really good seasonal juices and flavored lemonades that I like, too.”

Another fun aspect of shopping at Trader Joe’s is interacting with the employees, who are known to be friendly and engaging.

“Every single time I’m in the checkout line, they’re always talking to me about something and it’s never awkward,” Lipcsei said. “They’re so relaxed and you can tell that they genuinely enjoy working there.”

Lipcsei feels that the location of Trader Joe’s in a college town like Davis also has its perks.

“I also feel that the overall vibe at the Trader Joe’s in Davis is so unique because it’s always just college students there, so I’m always running into people,” Lipcsei said. “I’m never stressed when I’m shopping there.”

Overall, students and shoppers appreciate the grocery store for its high-quality ingredients, even with typically low prices.

“The ingredients are honestly really good quality,” Lipcsei said. “The food is way cheaper than other stores, and Trader Joe’s is so nice because even when they could be raising prices, they don’t. I think they do their best to help out college kids and keep their items budget-friendly, and that’s why people are so loyal to them.”

Lipcsei outlined why this year’s Best of Davis pick felt right to her.

“I am not surprised that they were voted Best Grocery Store because that’s the grocery store that everyone goes to, and people genuinely really enjoy it,” Lipcsei said. “I always see people wearing [their] merch — Davis students are very loyal to Trader Joe’s and would much rather stop there than anywhere else, so it does not surprise me at all.”

Written by: Graciela Tiu — features@theaggie.org

The Varsity Theatre voted UC Davis students’ favorite spot for romance 

By EVELYN SANCHEZ — features@theaggie.org

Open since 1950, the Davis Varsity Theatre, located at 616 2nd St., is a beautiful staple of the city of Davis. However, in 1990, the theater was almost torn down due to being unable to keep up with mainstream cinemas. The Davis mayor at the time proposed to use the space as a performing arts center, and Varsity briefly leased itself out to the community of Davis — two years later, the movies returned. After some rearrangement, Varsity became an art house cinema, dedicated to showing independent films.

The theater presents a sanctuary to cinema-fanatic couples who are able to watch movies not shown in regular theaters. Showing titles like “Sacramento” and Oscar-winning film “No Other Land,” the theater is the perfect spot to find your favorite indie film and be the first to leave a rating on Letterboxd.

Wren Tran, a fourth-year art studio and Asian American studies double major, offered their thoughts of the theater as a date spot.

“My partner and I have gone to Varsity a few times for a date,” Tran said. “It’s usually [fit] into a day’s worth of activities, though. But it’s very beautiful.”

The Streamline Moderne style of the quaint theater easily captures the common downtown stroller’s attention. The neon, purple sign held up by bright red lines running along the side of the building contribute to the old-timey feeling. The Art Deco influence of its rounded corners and aerodynamic blast to the past. Even if you’re not an avid moviegoer, Varsity offers enough atmosphere on looks alone.

“I saw ‘Past Lives’ with a guy at Varsity Theatre,” Juliana Sandoval, a fourth-year sustainable environmental design major, said. “The movie was so depressing but the atmosphere was so good. The seats were nice, and I like the old-timey atmosphere.”

For Sandoval, her sentiment reflects the romantic rituals that occur within the cozy place.

“Something romantic is bound to happen in that theater,” Sandoval said.

However, movies and popcorn aren’t the only things that Varsity have to offer.

“Whenever my partner and I visit, I always have us go get gelato [at Varsity],” Yvette Carrillo, a UC Davis alumna, said. “I always tell him how that was my go-to dessert spot, and it’s a bonus that they let you eat gelato while watching a movie.”

Icekrimski Cafe, a quaint shop conveniently connected to the theater, offers hand-crafted, Italian-style gelato. Accessible through a window inside of the theater, couples don’t have to hop businesses to get a hold of something both sweet and savory. With a rotating selection of daily flavors, gelato wonderfully complements the big screen, according to Carrillo, providing a meaningful, brief getaway for couples in Davis.

Located just across other popular spots like the Avid & Co., The Avid Reader and El Patio Fresh Mexican Grill, there is never a lack of things to do in the area. If you are ever stressing over a romantic evening out, look no further than 616 2nd Street.

Written by: Evelyn Sanchez  — features@theaggie.org

The seven-piece act pairs musical versatility with magnetic stage presence

By LAILA AZHAR — features@theaggie.org

Cowboys After Dark, Davis’ beloved cover band, wasn’t always known as Cowboys After Dark. As Bernadette Albano, a fourth-year biological sciences major and the band’s lead vocalist, recalled, they adopted the cowboy theme after an early show.

“We had a really weird few weeks where we were called ‘The Electric Turtles’ or something like that,” Albano said. “Then we played a big night party where we all wore cowboy hats and stuff like that and we just thought: ‘Cowboys After Dark,’ and it stuck.”

The band began four years ago when guitarist Eric Aguilar taped up flyers around town looking for musicians. Over the years, they have become a staple of the Davis music scene, being voted Best Local Band for the second year in a row.

The band can be found nearly anywhere in Davis: from fraternity basements to Woodstock’s Pizza to The California Aggie’s very own Couch Concert.

Their setlists span decades and genres; Their repertoire includes Bill Withers and Grover Washington Jr’s “Just the Two of Us,” CeeLo Green’s “Fuck You” and the crowd-favorite closer, Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive.”

As a seven-member group, the band is capable of performing these diverse setlists.

Alongside Albano and Aguilar, Cowboys After Dark includes Rose Mendoza, a fourth-year English and American studies double major, on the trumpet, Sam Dyer on keys and saxophone, Paul Zhu, a fourth-year psychology major and bassist, Mason Johnstone, a fourth-year biological sciences major and drummer, and Jacob Johnson, an animal behavior Ph.D. candidate, on the saxophone.

As Albano described, their best performances are often the ones which highlight the range of the band.

“We’ve played ‘Soul Sacrifice’ by Santana, and I really like that one because I feel like it really showcases everyone’s abilities,” Albano said. “We’ve got some really cool guitar solo stuff, the drums are very interesting, the horns take this cool James Bond-type line in the middle of it.”

Cowboys After Dark knows how to work a crowd. Their performances are high-energy and interactive, sometimes including lighthearted rap breaks or impromptu conga lines. As Aguilar noted, audiences often respond to the energy of their performances.

“Any band can stand there, play guitar and sing,” Aguilar said. “Especially as a cover band, we don’t want to just play a song as-is. In our shows, we’re always jumping, sometimes falling down, dropping drinks, and I think the crowds respond to that.”

As Mendoza expressed, the chaos works because there’s trust built into it.

“We’ve known each other a long time, and we’re very comfortable playing with each other,” Mendoza said. “I think the shows that we do are a space where we’re not afraid to have a lot of fun on stage, everyone can express their personality, musically and performance-wise, and I think that it’s fun for people to watch and connect with us while we’re doing our thing.”

Though they’ve performed outside of Davis, they show a special appreciation for the Davis music scene.

“Davis is at the next level,” Dyer said. “People take it seriously, which I really enjoy, and I think that’s reflected in the crowds. People have a ton of energy in Davis and they’re really invested in their friends’ bands or their favorite bands. It’s a special energy.”

Whether they’re closing out the night with disco anthems or diving into Santana deep cuts, Cowboys After Dark brings a sense of joy to every performance. Those interested in keeping up to date with this year’s Best Local Band, follow @cowboysafterdark on Instagram.

Written by: Laila Azhar — features@theaggie.org