By: Kat Bein By: Kat Bein | September 23, 2024 | Food & Drink, Guides,
Coffee. It is truly the nectar of the gods. Caffeine gets us going through the day, and the rich taste of locally-roasted beans warms us to the bone.
Of course, in the summer, you can pour over ice for a cool down, or add a bit of caramel and sugar for a sweet treat. We all know the big box stores will customize your order all kinds of ways, but it's the local coffee shops and connoisseurs that offer the best bean recommendations, serve the highest-quality drinks and keep our engines running from morning to night.
See also: 18 of the Best Bakeries Across America
In honor of the incredible coffee shops and roasters that make live worth living, we asked our editors to name their favorite coffee spots in their cities. From Los Angeles to Hawaii, Miami to New York City, Chicago, Dallas and everything in between, these are some of the best coffee shops across America.
1050 Howell Mill Rd. / Website
Marking the first Atlanta outpost—and second location to date—for the Alabama-born brand, Prevail Union Atlanta serves a variety of coffee and coffee-based drinks made with beans harvested from small farms in Africa, Papua New Guinea and Central America, plus a Rwandan blend produced by the nonprofit Kula Project. The brand also has its own roasting operation, creating a slew of varying blends to ensure you always find your perfect match. The hidden gem—which sits inside Star Metals apartment complex on Howell Mill—also features plenty of seating both inside and out, including a chic mid-century modern library, complete with a cozy fireplace and hidden reading nooks; a vibrant dining area, which showcases an eclectic blue-tiled wall (talk about Instagram worthy); plus open access to the apartment's lobby and outdoor lounge area. If you can't get enough of Prevail's delicious blends, opt for one of its monthly subscription packages so you never have to go without your favorite coffee (beans can be ordered whole or ground coarse, fine or medium). Still, there are 11 other coffee shops on Atlanta's full list.
520 E. Durant Ave. 110A, 970-544-0588 / Website
Offering several locations in the Denver and Aspen areas, Ink! meticulously hand-roasts their coffee beans in small batches five days a week. In their Aspen location, Ink! serves up everything from blended coffee beverages to organic pastries and breakfast treats. Signature Ink! drinks include the avalanche latte, which is made with layers of coffee, espresso, steamed milk and white chocolate flavoring. Discover more on Aspen's full list.
2415 W. North Ave. / Website
From root brew floats to almond bar lattes, “brewberry” mint mojitos and more standard java drinks (plus an ever-changing selection of tempting nibbles), this Black and Latina-owned Humboldt Park coffee shop has made an immediate impact with a combination of creativity and community. Chicago knows great coffee, so don't miss the other nine must-stop shops on Chi-town's full list.
5626 Bell Ave. / Website
La La Land Kind Cafe is in the business of kindness, and after passing into their quaint Bell Avenue cottage-style shop, it’s hard not to feel inspired to pass the good feelings right along. La La Land operates with the purpose of “employing and mentoring foster youth who are aging out of the system.” When you visit, try one of their colorful signatures: the butterfly latte and the lavender bloom matcha latte are a must, but don't stop there! Check out the other three great spots on Dallas' full list.
Multiple locations / Website
With its prowess in its name, Hampton Coffee Company has been serving the ultimate java jolt since its opening in 1994. Born from a passion for premium quality and community focus, this beloved family-owned coffee company has become a refreshing escape for coffee enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. With a handful of locations across the Hamptons, it’s safe to say this East End staple has provided your daily grind delight. Don't sleep now, there are still seven more coffee joints that you've got to try on our full list for the Hamptons.
International Marketplace - Waikiki, Kuhio Mall Entrance, 2330 Kalakaua Avenue #160, Honolulu; Website
Husband-and-wife team Raymond and Jackie Suiter have created a stylish spot for artisan Kona coffee and delicious baked goods from sister store b.patisserie. Jackie’s scientific culinary background and precise roasting methods combined with Raymond’s attention to detail and desire to offer the best experience ensure that the coffee they serve is crafted with a deep respect for the earth, its people and the beans that grow from it. So grab a cup and pair it with a James Beard Award-winning croissant or some flaky kouign-amman, layered and baked right before your eyes in the open kitchen. Once you've finished that cup, island hop around to try all 10 of the best coffee shops in Hawai'i.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Common Bond Coffee & Bakery (@commonbondbistroandbakery)
Multiple Locations / Website
Common Bond is a one-stop shop to treat yourself to delectable desserts or weekend brunch and mimosa flights with friends. The lineup of gorgeous—not to mention mouthwatering—pastries will leave you wondering if you’ve somehow been transported to a Parisian pâtisserie. Our go-to? The Frozen Bond or nitro cold brew paired with the decadent Kougin Amann. Check one of the other four shops on Houston's full list.
2777 S Las Vegas Blvd 89109 / Website
Marrying the luxe standards of European cafes with the ease of Italian-style counter service, Cafe Cuto is your go-to for coffee at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The baristas keep you fueled from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. whether you’re in dire need of a double espresso kick or are you keeping your morning well-rounded with a green cold-pressed juice and egg white scramble. You know Las Vegas is a city that refuses to sleep, so stay up with coffee from these four other shops on Vegas' full list.
Multiple Locations / Website
An Angeleno coffee staple that doubles as Instagram hotspot, Alfred’s got it all from chagaccinos to the infamous Iced Vanilla Latte. Don’t forget to check out their vegan treats, to-die-for burritos and limited time specials, that are usually inspired by the changing of the seasons. Get your caffeine fix there and at the other seven great coffee shops on the full L.A. list.
2390 NW 2nd Ave., Wynwood / Website
With multiple locations around Miami, Panther Coffee is a staple specialty coffee shop. With ready-to-brew coffees, cold brew, espresso and more, Panther Coffee’s menu explores some of the finest coffees worldwide. Order an espresso flight to taste the different options, and grab a savory breakfast sandwich to finish the meal. Did you want Miami's famous Cuban coffee? Stop by one of the other 10 spots on the full Miami list.
276 Livingston St.; 25 East 20th St.; 69 Grand St., Williamsburg / Website
Devoción's mission is to provide the freshest coffee imaginable by shortening the time between roast and brew. Starting in more than 1,000 local farms in Colombia, the beans pass through a dry-mill in Bogotá before being flown to Brooklyn. They're roasted and brewed right in the borough, and Devoción sells wholesale coffee to partner cafes across New York City. Packs of their roasted blends in a variety of grinds are also available for purchase on their website. In the city that never sleeps, you're going to need a lot of coffee, so scope the full list of 13 great coffee spots in NYC.
Dana Point and San Clemente / Website
Founded by Jeff Clinard in 2014, Bear Coast Coffee has grown from a pop-up to a beloved brew house with locations in Dana Point and San Clemente. Grab a cup of coffee at its waterfront shop in San Clemente and head across the street to walk the pier while sipping a warm beverage accented by its in-house sauces and flavorings, from lavender-infused caramel to nutmeg-accented vanilla. Stroll the sand with more coffee in hand from one of the other 11 shops on the O.C.'s full list.
229 Sunrise Ave., Palm Beach / Website
Here, the lattes are served with delicate French pastries that are a feast for the eyes. From classics like almond croissants and eclairs to works of culinary art such as opera cakes and cream puffs, the offerings at Guilloud Frédéric French Bakery are renowned for a reason. Explore more on Palm Beach's full list.
Multiple locations, Website
With a couple different locations throughout Philly, Ultimo has expanded to include their own roastery and lab. At their Rittenhouse location they offer macchiatos, americanos, cortados and chai lattes. To pair, they have an abundance of baked goods like their brown butter blondie. Don't stop there, because Philly is home to four more amazing coffee shops on our full list.
Multiple locations / Website
Certified by CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) as an organic coffee roaster, Better Buzz Coffee is committed to its mission to source fair trade and Rainforest Alliance coffees. With 12 shops across San Diego, its popular creations include both the hot and iced versions of its Best Drink Ever (espresso, water and creamy vanilla powder) and its new vegan lavender matcha and coconut cream cold brew. Order a bacon ciabatta sandwich stacked with spicy chipotle aioli, eggs, bacon and Muenster cheese to complete your morning delight. Keep the caffeine party going with a sip from one of the other nine San Diego shops on our full list.
Multiple locations / Website
Eileen Rinaldi, founder of Ritual Coffee, changed the way coffee lovers enjoy their java when she opened her first shop in 2005. She provides customers with the best by sourcing the coffee from small-farm producers. Offering new and unique espresso and decaf flavors, customers of Ritual can purchase the "ACE La Bandera" from Costa Rica, which includes notes of pineapple, caramel and toasted almonds. Another must-try is "Producer's Pride" from Costa Rica with a sweet taste of peach, cacao and baklava pastry. San Franciscans are serious about their coffee, so check the other five spots on this full list.
7135 E. Camelback Road, Ste. / Website
When founders Steve Kraus and Tram Mai couldn’t find the quality coffee they were seeking, they simply decided to start their own business—enter Press Coffee Roasters. Though established just months before the 2008 recession, the fierce love and loyalty of Press’s customers kept the coffee shop going. Whether you’re looking to get some work done or socialize with friends, the upbeat, modern atmosphere of Press is the perfect place to spend your day. There's more where that came from. Check Scottsdale's full list of great coffee shops, too.
Multiple locations / Website
Opened in 2016, Voyager's goal is to introduce new and unique coffee flavors to its customers in a cozy setting. They just released their new spring and summer menu of drinks aside from the traditional coffee, latte and cappuccino options. New menu item Manila can be served hot or cold and consisting of ube, mango, brown sugar, vanilla and coconut cream. Ready to disrupt your industry but need more coffee? Check the other four great spots on our full list.
Multiple locations, Website
Situated within the Latin market La Cosecha and Shaw, Café Unido marks the inaugural U.S. presence of a Panamanian coffee chain. Founded by Benito Bermudez and Mario Castrellon, a chef recognized on San Pellegrino’s list of Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants, the establishment directly sources beans from growers in Panama. In a commitment to social and environmental initiatives, a percentage of their sales is donated. Is D.C. the coffee capital? You'll have to try the other four shops on our full list to find out.
Want even more coffee with less time on the road? Try one of our favorite coffee cocktail recipes to spice up your night.
Photography by: Nathan Dumlao / Unsplash
