Local Coffee Shops in Salina

In Salina there are a variety of local coffee shops that are very popular amongst the community and Kansas Wesleyan students. The environments of each coffee shop have different atmospheres that make them unique from one another, but all share the qualities of a welcoming environment, flavorful drinks, and friendly staff that one should experience at every coffee shop they visit. 

The newest addition, 1858 Coffee House, is located on 131 S Santa Fe Ave. It has some very unique history behind it. The name itself comes from the year when Salina was founded, and the building has a variety of murals in it with some being over 100 years old. The atmosphere inside is inviting and has a homey feel to it. Shelby Lingle, a student at Kansas Wesleyan University, says that “the atmosphere is welcoming and cozy. It is what you make it. If you want something upbeat and fun it’s a great place to hang out with your friends. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a good spot to do homework there are also peaceful spots to do so.” 

1858 Coffee House’s menu also has some history to it. When you look at their signature drink menu, it is full of familiar Salina locations such as: Indian Rock, Santa Fe, Stiefel, and Smoky Hill. They also offer a variety of pastries that include: cinnamon rolls, muffins, scones, danishes, and cookies.

Ad Astra Books and Coffee House is another locally owned coffee house that is located on 135 N Santa Fe Ave. The name “Ad Astra,” which translates into “to the stars,” is taken from the Kansas motto “Ad astra per aspera.” Inside, the atmosphere has an old-school feel to it with a bunch of different seating options where you can sit. Ad Astra also has a variety of books and games you can read and play while at the store. 

The store offers a big menu with a variety of different drinks. Some of the more popular coffee drinks include the cold brews, Cafe Au Lait, and espressos. There are also a variety of  drinks for non-coffee drinkers as well that include: a London fog, chai lattes, as well as a bunch of different Italian soda flavors. Ad Astra also offers a bunch of different baked goods and bagels. 

The last locally owned coffee shop is Mokas Coffee and Eatery. Located all across Kansas, Mokas originally opened in Salina in 2005. Originally, Mokas was located downtown but relocated many years ago to 902 E Crawford St. When you walk inside, the atmosphere has a homey feeling to it. There are many different seating options where people can come to enjoy beverages and get something to eat as well as work on homework. Joni Schroeder, a student at Kansas Wesleyan University, says that she “loves the atmosphere of Mokas, it has a very homey feeling – pretty casual and comfortable. I’ve found it to be a great place to go with friends to hang out or by yourself to get some homework done.”

The menu offers a variety of options that include signature drinks, pastries, and freshly made food. Some of Mokas’ signature drinks include their Carmel Royale, Red White & Brew, and a wide variety of Lattes. They also offer smoothies and other non-coffee drinks as well. There are also a lot of pastries they sell which include muffin tops, scones, brownies, cookies, and cinnamon rolls.