Raani Cafe

Introduction

Ever wondered what a cafe experience would be like when it’s packed with Indian flavors, spices, traditions, and more? Are you looking for a new lock in spot a short drive away from Georgia Tech, with calm vibes and absolutely spectacular staff interactions? 

Welcome to Raani Cafe, located 16 minutes from Square of Fifth apartments in Midtown, with a cafe menu that will blow your mind. 

Menu Options + Special Flavors 9/10

Raani’s menu is immaculate. Offering a wide variety of drinks that can be made iced or hot, such as Gulab Jamun Latte, Madras Kaapi, and Salted Jaggery latte, and more. If you are feeling snackish, you can choose from many pastries, desserts, and savory treats. Some items include the famous Cardamom bun, biscuits, and more. All their items are not only unique and tasty, but feature unique Indian flavors. We tried all of our drinks hot, but now that the weather is getting warmer, I want to try the iced versions as well for a slightly different flavor profile. 

If you are not a coffee lover, fear not! Their authentic Indian chai latte option is also loved by the crowd. My friends and I were given a free sample, and even without any sugar (we love sweet drinks), it was simply delicious, and so flavorful just on its own. On that note, we also received a sample of the authentic Filter Kaapi, which my friends and I enjoyed sharing and trying as well. Customer service was simply immaculate, and we got to chat with our barista Ethan about our drinks, or names, our stories, and more. We had a lovely time at the cafe and walked away with smiles. 

Study Spots to Lock In: 8/10

This cafe is amazing if you want to lock in. If you are unable to find a seat at the tall desk spaces, bring a portable charger or come with your laptop already charged. The space tends to bustle, and chatter will be in the air, with warm conversations about anything and everything around you. Many brought their laptops with them on the day we visited Raani, and if you want to cut out the noise, bring some earbuds or headphones in your bag as well. There is decent seating availability, especially during non-rush hours.

The seating and vibe of the space itself is 10/10. Indian decor, floor cushions, Indian flag colors (saffron, green and white) surround the space. The lighting is warm and cozy, there are fresh plants and foliage around the cafe, and there is even a multi row shelf with many Indian small and/or local businesses selling gorgeous merchandise, from snacks to books to cups, and some Raani merch too! It was really fun to browse this section, and I would go back and make a purchase of those pepper chips I saw next time I visited as a fun treat as well. Locking in, itself, is a treat when the environment surrounding you is so uplifting, vibrant, and full of light. It is overall a wonderful study spot cafe for college students and networking professionals for their next coffee chat. 

It is worth noting that the space has amazing lighting and aesthetics, so if you wanted to do a little coffee photo shoot here as well, you would likely walk away with some cute, fun, aesthetic pictures for your Instagram story or next post. 

Study Strategies

This cafe reminds me of how important it is to expand your network and meet new people. Our barista Ethan who gave us free samples, drink recommendations, and mindful and intentional conversation made the experience so memorable for me and my friends. We still talk about how nice it was to connect with someone through a conversation. For me, this is a takeaway I will remember, and if you are networking (to expand your personal or professional network, to find new friends or a new business partner) it is a skill I recommend you keep building to. Be open to new conversations and new people!