Wake up and smell the coffee.  Whether you need a high dose of caffeine, want to warm up from the cold or are meeting friends to chat, check out the following locales.

1. Panera Bread: For those in a hurry or enjoying a time of leisure, Panera Bread on the corner of West and Allen roads can meet your java needs.  Their freshly brewed coffees are made from the finest beans from Central and South America, and are expertly roasted to perfection.  Whether it’s Dark Roast, Light Roast, Decaffeinated or Hazelnut you desire, there are options for all.  And if you need a little extra spice to your coffee, try a Peppermint Mocha, Cappuccino, Caffe Mocha, Caramel Latte or Caffe Latte. All drinks are available also in decaf, with skim milk or served over ice.  In addition to a cup of Joe, you can also feast on one of Panera’s freshly made meals including salads, sandwiches on freshly baked breads, soufflés and finish it off with a pastry for your sweet tooth. For more information on food, beverages, catering and nutrition visit www.panerabread.com.

 2. Dunkin Donuts: Convenient for those in a hurry and in need of gas, Dunkin Donuts located inside of a Mobil station on the corner of West and Allen, 20050 West Road, offers several easy options for a cup of Joe. There is also a second location for added convenience, 4407 Fort Street.  Whether using the drive-through or heading inside, a vast array of caffeine options are at your disposal, including regular and decaf, lattes and cappuccinos and iced coffees for those non-blistery-cold months.  All are available with flavored syrups, including sugar-free, which is a must in my favorite, French vanilla latte lite. Be sure to also try one of their menu items, such as donuts, bagels, breakfast sandwiches or one of their recently added low-calorie sandwiches, such as the egg-white veggie flat-bread sandwich.  Visit www.dunkindonuts.com for more information on beverages, food and nutrition.

3. Elliott’s Bakery:  Ok, so it may be the sweet concoctions that lead you to this friendly neighborhood bakery, but while you’re there enjoy a hot cup of coffee!  Open since 1931 and often frequented by regulars, those that have tasted the delicious pastries, breads, cakes and famous raspberry current cookies keep coming back for more.  A visit to Elliott’s Bakery, 2636 West Jefferson, will make you feel like you are a part of the family in its old fashioned neighborhood atmosphere.  Call 734-676-1940. 

 4. Tim Horton’s: “Always Fresh,” Tim Horton’s on the corner of West and Fort, known for its legendary coffee, has come a long way since its early simple menu of coffee and donuts.  Their special blend, as well as English Toffee and French Vanilla cappuccinos are menu favorites, but so are the many other food and beverage choices. Pair your cup of Joe with one of Tim’s freshly baked bagels, muffins or cookies. Or if cooking is not on the menu for the night, quickly use the drive-thru to pick up one of the many sandwich and salad options.  Offering 24-hour drive-thru service, Tim Horton’s caters to customers on the go.  For more information visit www.timhortons.com or call 734-671-4205.

5. Big Apple Bagels: This comfortable, casual restaurant at 19265 West Road may have bagels in its name, but coffee is what it’s all about.  Their classic breakfast blend, dark roast, decaf and flavored coffees change daily so there’s always a new flavor awaiting your taste buds.  In addition, their other specialty coffees like cinnamon toast latte and turtle mocha are like dessert in a cup. While obviously known for their fabulous fresh bagels, Big Apple Bagels offers customers other food options ranging from breakfast sandwiches and omelets to heartier choices such as deli sandwiches and daily soup varieties.  See what keeps their customers coming back for more!  Visit www.babcorp.com/default.htm, or call 734-692-6600 for more information on Big Apple Bagels.