By Katy Korstange, Sports Editor  

Just over the river in downtown Covington is 513 Coffee, a quaint coffee shop that offers a cozy atmosphere for its customers.  

In the spirit of the season, their menu is currently fall-themed. With seasonal drinks like the Pumpkin Waffle Latte, Peanut Butter Fluff Latte and the Apple Chaider, there’s sure to be something for everyone.  

The Peanut Butter Fluff Latte, while seeming a little bit out of the box, is surprisingly amazing. The cup is drizzled with peanut butter which does not overpower the coffee flavor. It is served with marshmallow fluff whip cream and a peanut butter cookie on top. 

The flavors worked very well together. The bitterness of the coffee balanced out the sweetness of the marshmallow fluff, and the peanut butter added a rich nutty flavor that gave hazelnut latte vibes.  

The only downside is its price tag: $9.27. While this is a seasonal drink, the price seems a little high. Part of this was because whole milk was substituted for oat milk, which is a $1 upcharge.  

Every good cafe needs to master their Americanos. While water and espresso seem like a simple combination, it is surprising how many ways that different cafes can mess them up.  

513 Coffee did an excellent job. Their hot Americano had a desired ratio of espresso to water; it was not too hot, and the espresso was very smooth.  

Their signature drinks include the Honey Kissed Latte, Nutella Dream and the Praline Truffle. These looked very delectable and seemed popular. Any of these lattes can be served in a can for $8, which is a fun way to remain eco-friendly.  

Their sweets and pastries are from a popular bakery just down the street: North South Baking Co. The pastries are delicious, but they often sell out before lunch and do not get more until the next day.  

They sell three different types of locally roasted coffee beans. Their Bearcats Blend has notes of red apple, black tea and brown sugar. As a Xavier student, I simply cannot get behind that, although it is nice that they are representing their community.  

Right next door is 513 Lagree, a Pilates style fitness studio. Many people walked over to 513 Coffee after their workout to grab a coffee: an impeccable business model if you ask me. 

In terms of atmosphere, 513 Coffee does a stellar job. There are plenty of different sized tables, both inside and outside. It is small, but not too small where it is too loud and overwhelming.  

Every coffee shop needs a catchy playlist. 513 Coffee went above and beyond with theirs. They managed to play well-known songs and artists without playing their overplayed songs. This playlist included songs by artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Noah Kahan, sombr and Amy Winehouse.  

513 Coffee emphasizes the importance of third places in the Cincinnati area. Third places are social surroundings that are not your home, a first place, or work, a second place. It is somewhere where you feel comfortable enough to work and get stuff done, but also where you feel independent from your everyday life.  

With well-made drinks, tasty sweets and a cozy atmosphere, 513 Coffee should be on everyone’s list of coffee shops to visit.