The sweet smell of coffee, the soothing sound of music, and the joyfulness of companionship. What more could one possibly ask for?
Daily Brew coffee house in Riverside is a place where people can gather to celebrate community. On the first Wednesday of every month, this coffee shop hosts Waffle Night and Open Mic night, which are open to the entire community.
From 6-8 p.m., they serve waffles and invite local singers or spoken-word poets to share their talents with others.
In addition to live music, poetry and waffles, there is plenty of space for students to study in a soothing environment. What better way to reduce the stress of college life than being serenaded by musicians?
Scott Christen, owner of Daily Brew, explained how Daily Brew celebrates the passions people share. The coffee shop, he said, is a safe place for people to gather regardless of their dif- ferences and enjoy the value of friendship and community.
“We do our best to make sure that Daily Brew is everyone’s coffee shop. It is our goal to offer a wide spectrum of community, which is one of the main reasons why we have open mic nights,” Christen said. “The family aspect is what I love most about it. All are welcome to come say ‘cheers’ and enjoy coffee.”
Any kind of music is welcome at open mic night. People are welcome to sing, play instruments or share poetry.
Michael Perez, Daily Brew employee and singer in a local band called “No Bragging Rights,” often sings at Daily Brew’s open mic nights. He sings in a punk-rock band, but at open mic night he usually sings while a friend plays acoustic guitar.
“At open mic nights, customers are so encouraging. It’s a positive environment. There is no time limit on how long you can perform,” Perez said. “Customers often cheer for you to keep going even after you’re finished. Anyone can come and play knowing that they will be supported.”
Daily Brew also has a bookcase where customers have the opportunity to leave a book and take a book. Readers can pass on good reads with others and invest in a fresh new story.
Maile Liu, sophomore nursing major, said Daily Brew is her second home. It is her go-to spot for studying, meeting with friends and enjoying coffee.
“I love the community at Daily Brew because there is always a variety of people there who come to fuel up, study or catch up on life,” Liu said. “The atmosphere is always warm and inviting. The baristas are genuinely kind and do their best to make your day a little brighter.”
Whether customers want to catch up with a good friend or grab some coffee to-go, Daily Brew can do it all.
