Biggby
Various locations
The coffeehouse formerly known as Beaner’s started out in East Lansing. The first Beaner’s opened was in a building that used to be an Arby’s on Grand River Avenue, just west of campus (look for the steer’s head in the tile floor). This location is open 24 hours.
You won’t see very many Starbucks stores in Lansing because Beaner’s/Biggby’s dominates the market. Biggby’s seems to have a less formal atmosphere than Starbucks with cuter slogans and promotions and friendly, talkative staff. Where Starbucks aims for an international, sophisticated feel, Biggby’s de-emphasizes the coffee itself and focuses on the flavored beans and sugary concoctions. One example is the Butter Bear – a butterscotch-flavored latte with whipped cream, chunks of toffee, and a drizzling of caramel. You won’t find your prize-winning pull of espresso here, but it’s a friendly place to grab a sweet latte.
Bonus points: free wireless internet (but there’s usually a fight for power outlets)