Discovering Donkey Coffee

Written by Dylan Sams and Brooke Baldi

Photos by Brooke Baldi

One of the best places to be in Athens is Donkey Coffee & Espresso. Walk inside, and a lot of things will hit you at once. First, you’ll feel how warm it is. Not just the temperature, this is a place that is inviting and feels like the building itself wants you here. All of this before you get your cup of coffee (or tea). Both are exceptional, and feel free to experiment with all the different drink options. Also, don’t forget to try the pizza rolls.

Each wall is adorned with different
decorations

Come into Donkey and you’ll see lots of different people, students, townspeople, businessmen/women, musicians, artists, writers, anything you can imagine. This is a place for friends to gather, whether they just want to sit and chat, catch a musical performance, or perhaps see a play.

There are also many opportunities for people to get to perform at two different open mics. The first one, on Tuesdays is called Designated Space, and it is for spoken word performances. People can come in, read poetry either they have written or admire, or just talk about whatever is on their mind. Thursdays are the days for the musicians to try their hands at open mics. Anyone can sign up at all different skill levels. Both of these exist to give people a hand at trying to perform, as well as entertainment for people during the week.

Bruce Dalzell and Matt Moore performing at Donkey Coffee

Friday and Saturday nights are times for performances of many kinds, from well-established Athens musicians, to student plays by the Lost Flamingo Company, to Spoken Word exhibitions. It all depends on what’s scheduled for the weekend. Chances are there will be something for you to enjoy here at Donkey, so come up to Washington to experience a coffee house with something to offer for pretty much anybody, it is well worth the visit.