While most Lipscomb students would prefer to stay on the LU side of the road, venturing down Belmont Boulevard has a few benefits. One of those benefits found only by brave Lipscomb students is a coffee shop called Bongo Java.
Bongo Java is an old house that has been refurbished and converted into a coffee shop. The store opened in 1993, and a year later began snatching up the award for best coffeehouse in the Nashville Scene magazine. The award has alternated for block periods of time between Bongo Java and its sister coffee shop Fido, located in historic Hillsboro Village.
The top floor of Bongo Java has a small stage for concerts and theater events. The concerts I have been to at Bongo Java were intimate and enjoyable. The Bongo Java website has a list of events you can enjoy on a free night.
I have tried several drinks at Bongo Java including a caramel latte and a house drink called the Mochahontas, made with cinnamon, chocolate, and vanilla. Both drinks feature distinct coffee flavor over the sweetness, but the boldness does not overpower. Each drink is topped off with a design in the milk, also known as latte art.
Bongo Java has a full menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you are looking for some mouth-watering breakfast, try the Bongo Basic Breakfast.
Although the coffee is great, ordering can be intimidating. Unlike the Lipscomb campus Starbucks, the Bongo Java employees do not try to engage in a cheerful conversation with each costumer. The employees seem to expect the costumer to know what they want right away.
Upon arriving at Bongo Java you will see lots of outdoor deck seating. The downside to all the outside seating is the population of smokers. If you come while the smokers are out, you may have a harder time finding clean air to enjoy your food and/or beverage.
If you cannot find a suitable table outside, the inside of Bongo Java is both refreshing and relaxing. The coffee shop always has art on display, and has several rooms to choose from.
Bongo Java is a Nashville coffee shop landmark, and I recommend that you visit it soon. The coffee shop is spacious, delicious, and affordable for college students on a tight budget.