By Lauren Fox
Asst. News Editor
Back to the Grind is a place to buy coffee, study, enjoy live music and spend an evening exploring downtown Riverside.
Throughout the week, the coffee house offers unique entertainment options.
“There is a variety of music that we want to get into the community,” said Talene Salmasvadeh, store manager at Back to the Grind.
This month, Back to the Grind has five different bands playing at its venue. A hip-hop band named The Herbalistics will be performing Sept. 20 at 8 p.m., and Quevin Martin Trio, a jazz band, will be playing at 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 21.
The next week, The Floasis, a hip-hop band, will take the stage at 8 p.m., Sept. 26. Then on Sept. 27, Habitat, an alternative group, will preform at 8 p.m. The last show of the month will be on Sept. 28, featuring four diverse bands: Eva and the Vagabond Tales, Nathan Rivera, Dan Coffman and Andres Valenzuela, beginning at 8 p.m.
With music options from across the board, Back to the Grind is sure to have something for everyone.
“It has a really hipster vibe when you enter,” said Katy Knutson, senior sociology major. “The employees are super chill and
welcoming.”
Not only does Back to the Grind host live music events every month, it is also a venue for local musicians to showcase their talents at Open Mic Night. Mondays at 9 p.m. is open for anyone to perform. People are welcome to showcase a range of abilities from reading poems, singing or showcasing whatever odd talent an individual may have.
Open Mic Nights for musical guests only are offered throughout the month.
Talene Salmasvadeh said Sundays and Wednesdays are perfect study nights at the coffee house.
“I would recommend it for students because the service is great, the beverages are wonderful and the environment is really great to do homework or study,” said Christie Collins, senior communication studies major.
Only 10 minutes from campus, Back to the Grind is a local hot spot students should explore.
All Back to the Grind’s events are free.
