Located on the ground floor of the Union is the 8th Note Coffeehouse. Over the past year and a half it has had minor changes including new lighting, room layout, stools, and updated tea and coffee flavors. But it is still its same old self. The 8th Note is much more than just a coffee shop. It is about the people sitting on those stools testing out the new flavors, basking in the dim glow of the coffeehouse’s soft lighting. It still has its welcoming volunteer workers and faithful customers. The 8th Note has kept its carefree and wonderfully weird environment over the years and keeps bringing in customers seeking cheaper coffee and a good time.
Justin Kraemer, president of the organization, mentions the small interior changes and easy-going atmosphere of the establishment.
“There used to be a lot less nerd culture, but it’s still very off-beat you know. Counter-culture on the campus is always welcome here,” says Kraemer. “We’re not just a hallway.”
The “weird charm” as Kraemer said is perfect for most customers at the coffeehouse. UWM Freshman Mikaia says she enjoys the friendly environment and likes the fandom references at the 8th Note. Sophomore Michael, a frequent there, especially on Retro Game Night, started going there as a freshmen because of the “video games, open-minded people” and of course, “the coffee.”
Compared to other coffee places on campus like the Grind, Kraemer and numerous other customers commented on how the 8th Note has much cheaper and tastier drinks. The non-profit coffeehouse also holds fun events like Retro Game Night, which happens the first three Fridays of every month. Coming up October 25, the 8th Note will be holding their Extra Life fundraising event. A 24-hour marathon which raises money for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The coffeehouse will also be starting an open mic night.
The 8th Note is a great place to chill, meet different varieties of students, play games, and drink delicious coffee and tea. The small changes have not hindered its unique style, one that sets it apart from other coffee places on campus.