The newest eatery on campus, Einstein Bros Bagels, is creating quite a stir amongst coffee drinkers.

Einstein’s replaced Freshens in the Student Union Building (SUB), and offers a variety of bagel sandwiches, along with caffeinated beverages. The restaurant’s coffee choices have been an alternative for Starbucks and Java City customers who might be near the south end of campus.

Starbucks has become a staple hangout for students who want to enjoy a cup of coffee and either chat with friends between class or study. Since ULM is one of only two public universities in Louisiana with a full store on campus, their drinks have become a treat.

Starbucks has a large following, which is apparent every morning by the enormous line of students and faculty waiting to order.

Kacie Mathieu, a junior nursing major from Monroe, said, “I just love the friendly atmosphere of Starbucks and the comfy couches.”

Another devoted customer to Starbucks, Laykin Kelley, a pre-pharmacy major from Shreveport, agrees with Mathieu.

“I love the convenience of this chain. Almost as much as I love the white chocolate mocha and the caramel frappuccino,” said Kelley.

However, former Starbucks lovers are now turning to Einstein Bros. Vu Nguyen, a senior pre-rad tech from New Orleans usually comes to Einstein’s at least once a week.

“Einstein Bros knows my name, and the service is always fast because it’s apparent they want you to return,” said Nguyen.

Emily Bouso, a senior toxicology major from Bossier, said “I prefer Einstein’s to Starbucks. It is an excellent addition to the SUB.”

Both Einstein’s and Starbucks were the first locations in Northeast Louisiana, and are big hits among students. Some students prefer one over the other, some like both. The choices and possibilities are endless. So, the question remains: Einstein’s or Starbucks?