Granitas are Getting Old: Recommendations of New Drinks to Try at The Mill

Building a coffee shop across from Union College was just about the best idea anyone has ever had. But after three years of living right across the street from The Mill, I have a problem. I order the same thing every time: a granita with toffee nut syrup. In an effort to branch out, I turned to Instagram for non-basic drink recommendations. Here is what everyone raved about.

London Fog

This drink is earl grey tea with steamed milk and vanilla syrup. John Michael Sagarra described this drink as “basically a latte, but with tea.” It is his drink of choice in the afternoon or night because it’s not as strong as coffee.

Mexican Mocha with Cinnamon Whipped Cream

This is Jacob Sanchez’s favorite drink at The Mill. He said it tastes like Mexican hot chocolate called “chocolate de Abuelita,” and reminds him of Christmas as a child. 

Italian Soda with Lavender

As someone who doesn’t drink coffee, Diana Celaya is always looking for a new drink to try at The Mill. One of her favorites is the Italian soda with lavender syrup. She said it tastes like a sweet soda and it’s quite creamy.

Chai Variations

Several people suggested I try a chai tea drink from The Mill. Gavin Forbes raved about the sparkling chai (regular iced chai tea made with sparkling water). Nathaniel Brown prefers the dirty chai because of its slight coffee taste and additional caffeine punch, while Abbie Proudfoot recommends trying the iced original chai.

Caramel Steamer

Logan Scroggins says The Mill’s caramel steamer is “undefeated.” It’s simply caramel-flavored steamed milk – another great option for anyone who doesn’t drink coffee.

I love caramel and this recommendation intrigued me so much that the day after Logan suggested it, I walked down to The Mill and tried it for myself. I ordered it with almond milk and guys, it’s actually really good. It’s quite sweet, but I’ll definitely order it again when I don’t want coffee.

Bella Coola

Gabriel Zita likes this herbal tea because of the warm, calming effect it has. He described the taste as being similar to pineapple candy. I can’t wait to try this one!

I hope that if you too have fallen into a routine of ordering the same drink over and over again, this list has given you new ideas!

Hannah Dreweick is a junior business

administration and communication

major from Stoughton, Wis.