The first-year’s cheat sheet to the best of Morningside

Exploring Morningside Heights can be exhilarating, but it can get tiring to waste time and money on neighborhood duds. For those looking to cut a few corners, check out A&E’s SparkNotes for enjoying Columbia’s environs to the fullest:

BEST BARBER SHOP AND HAIR SALON
Melvin & Pat’s Barber Shop, Amsterdam between 109th and 110th streets; Scott J. Lifestyle Salon & Spa, Broadway between 114th and 115th streets

BEST CAFÉ
Max Caffé, Amsterdam between 122nd and 123rd streets

BEST COFFEE
Oren’s Daily Roast, Broadway between 112th and 113th streets

BEST DOSE OF CULTURE
Cathedral of St. John the Divine, Amsterdam at 112th Street

BEST CHINESE TAKE-OUT
Columbia Cottage, Amsterdam at 111th Street

BEST COLUMBIA GREENMARKET STAND
Samascott Orchards

BEST GROCERY STORE
Westside Market, Broadway between 110th and 111th streets

BEST HEWITT STAPLE
Made-to-order hamburgers

BEST JOHN JAY STAPLE
Wilma’s omelets

BEST LAUNDROMAT
Clean Port, Broadway between 98th and 99th streets

BEST PLACE TO RUN
Riverside Park

BEST VIEW OF CAMPUS
SIPA roof