Arts & Entertainment

Grabba Java relaxes students' stresses

By Michelle Lehmann
The Daily Cougar

Sitting in the warm winter sunlight, listening to the sweet sounds soft Jazz sipping on a hazelnut latte can always relax a stressed out student. Grabba Java, located at the north east corner of Scott and Elgin, in the same strip center as Rothers, offers this kind of environment.

"The atmosphere is very romantic and the music is relaxing," said sophomore graphic communications major Francisco Badillo.

The dark colored walls and the polished concrete floor seem to lend an appeal of ambience. The background is decorated with Batik print tapestries underneath a black sound tiled ceiling. Behind the roomy coffee bar is a small sitting area complete with a black leather sofa, two armchairs and a television for customer enjoyment. The small wooden tables and bar offer a comfortable place to relax and set up a laptop computer with Grabba Javais DSL or Wireless Internet Access next to a soothing Mocha Freeze.

Owner, and UH School of communications graduate, Tina York wanted a set up that would offer her customers comfort and good cup of coffee. Her dream for euntrepraneurship and her love for java drove her the open Grabba Java. 

Her idea of urban, tribal decor contributed to a setting that would both satisfy college students and the surrounding neighborhood. She truly felt like UH should have their own coffee shop to call home.

"UHis counterparts, UT, Texas A&M and Rice all have the luxury of coffee shops around them. I wanted to offer UH their own good coffee house," York said.

York also offers a gallery for artist wishing to display their artwork and maybe even sell it. Many times she has UH studentsi art like M. Kahil Tayloris work displayed for the all to observe and possibly purchase.

College students always know the value of a dollar, and Grabba Java has no problem catering to this need. With such low prices the actual taste of the coffee compares highly if not higher than to other leading coffee shops.

Their menu offers a large variety of drinks as well. From frozen drinks like the Mocha Freeze, hot lattes to espresso shots, teas and juices, Grabba Java has something for everyone. In her drinks she uses Ghirardelli syrups, which is a big hit for customers. They even make their own whipped cream. On top of having drinks, Grabba Java has a selection of sandwiches and wraps for a lunchtime retreat away from campus.

The environment seems fun to work in and the employees are always sweet and ready to serve. York hires UH students as barristers and is more than willing to work with their school schedules.

"Tina is always willing to work with my schedule, and I have such a great time working at Grabba Java. I love the espresso she uses," said USD sophomore Leah Simon.

Grabba Java opened its doors to its delicious drinks in May of 2002 and released coupons in The Daily Cougar periodically. Their hours of operation are Mondays 7 am to 6 pm.; Tuesday to Thursdays 7 am. to 9 pm; Fridays 7 am to 6 pm; Saturdays 9 am to 7 pm; and Sundays 10 am to 7 pm

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