Highland Park Village recently opened a grocery store with a bakery, flower shop, and coffee shop. Royal Blue is open, sunny and inviting. It is also a quick drive, making it convenient and reliable.

There are many options to choose from regarding coffees and other drinks. Despite the various syrups such as vanilla and lavender, I ordered my usual, a caramel latte. It was warm and rich and on point. The whole milk they added to the latte was creamy and thick, making for a beverage I highly recommend when you need caffeine.

The cafe in Royal Blue has a space-saving layout, with different levels of tables and seating. I sat on the top level overlooking the store. It is a great view of Highland Park Village and of the whole store.

I really appreciated how friendly the baristas were. They are not afraid to make conversation and make you feel like life-long friends. A girl about the age of five sat a couple seats away from me, and a barista came up to her and started talking to her and asking about her pink skeleton footie pajamas. Therefore, they work to be upbeat and personal with you, which is a positive aspect of the shop.

Studying here would be a stellar idea since it stays open until 12 o’clock am on weekends and weekdays. It is a relatively quiet place, so it is easy to focus on work, and there is plenty of space to spread out notes and binders.

Overall, I recommend Royal Blue. Their lattes are amazing, and they even make decadent hot chocolate. It is a safe environment and a perfect spot for catching up with friends or studying.