On October 30, the coffee-and-waffle shop Caffé Bene opened an outlet on the first floor lobby of the KI Building after 15 days of construction. This is the second chain of the Caffé Bene franchise to open within KAIST, after the first store opened in the Undergraduate Food Court in 2009.

Of all the well-known coffee franchises that were proposed as possible options, Caffé Bene presented the most attractive qualities which finally led to its selection for a second partnership. Its strongest competitive edge comes from the exceptionally cheap prices at which items will be sold, for the purpose of student welfare. Although there are variations on different items, the price is on average about 50~60% cheaper than normal. Using the same ingredients and the original recipes, the quality of its beverages and edible goodies does not pale in comparison to that of Caffé Bene stores located outside of campus.

The café sports an open interior that is not confined by glass windows. The sweet aroma of coffee fills the first floor lobby, and the melodic jazz tune adds to a generally warm atmosphere.

In addition, the interior of the shop adopted the theme of a book café. To this end, there is a ring-shaped table, where customers may sit circularly around each other, and smaller hexagonal tables that can be attached on its edges for small or large group meetings. Otherwise, customers may sip their coffee at tables placed by clear glass walls, looking out to the scenic view of the Duck Pond.

Since its opening, Caffé Bene was the busiest during lunch and dinner hours, as the crowds coming back from dining at the West Cafeteria flocked to the nearest café to grab a cup of coffee. Although the most popular drinks are the classic Americano or café latte, other drinks, including non-caffeine beverages, are also available.

Lap blankets are also available for the customers’ convenience if the customers simply ask the sales clerk.

Business hours are: 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m on weekdays, and 11:00 a.m. to 8:10 p.m. on the weekend.