Calling All Coffee Snobs!
Whether you're a die-hard espresso enthusiast or just someone who enjoys a cozy latte on a Sunday morning, great coffee shops are essential pit stops on any journey. From bustling cities to quiet mountain towns, every state has its own gem of a café—those places where the coffee is strong, the atmosphere is inviting, and the baristas know their beans.
We’ve brewed up a list of the best coffee shop in each state, so whether you’re road-tripping or just curious, you’ll know exactly where to go for your next perfect cup of joe.
Alabama
The most popular coffee shop in Alabama is Turbo Coffee. They have two locations, Florence or Tuscaloosa. The Florence shop, thanks to its location in the back of Greasy Hands Barbershop, has a speakeasy vibe that customers seem to love.
Many Turbo Coffee fans have their beans shipped directly to their door. Each small batch is sourced from farmers around the world and then roasted in Alabama.
Alaska
If you’re looking for a hot spot for coffee in Alaska, you’ll want to check out Talkeetna Roadhouse—which is located in a historic building dating back to 1917. The Talkeetna Roadhouse offers more than just coffee, but their brew is said to be a local favorite.
Talkeetna Road House Alaska, Best Food in Talkeetna Alaska, AlaskaGranny
Arizona
Bisbee Coffee Company is the only dedicated coffee shop in Bisbee, Arizona—and one of just a few in southeastern Arizona. The best part of this place is that they roast their own beans on-site. Reviews rave about the Mexican Mocha specifically, which is flavored with a pinch of chili.
Bisbee Coffee Company, Arizona Highways TV
Arkansas
Leiva’s Express is a sweet little drive-thru java joint in Little Rock—with an incredible mission. Their story stretches all the way to the Leiva family coffee farm in Guatemala, where the family has grown coffee for decades. The Leivas are fighting for the rights of coffee farmers around the world, and each cup of coffee or bag of beans purchased goes toward their work empowering communities in rural Guatemala.
A local favorite is the Honey Cinnamon Latte.
California
Klatch Coffee in San Dimas is not just one of the best coffee shops in Cali, it’s also one of the best coffee shops in the entire country! This family-owned company has been in business for over 20 years and sources their beans from all over the globe.
Colorado
In Colorado, you’ll find amazing coffee shops everywhere you go. There is certainly no shortage of them. But according to reviews, one of the best ones is located in Colorado Springs: Switchback. This sustainably minded company has two locations in town and buys all their coffee from single-origin sources and roasts it on-site.
Not only that, they do their best to serve everyone in the community, with drop coffee available at a pay-what-you-can rate.
Pikes Peak 2021 small business week: Switchback Coffee Roasters, KRDO13 Colorado Springs
Connecticut
If coffee and books are two of your favorite things, you’ll want to make a point in finding this cute little coffee shop known for its fairytale vibe. Story and Soil Coffee has two locations, one in the Frog Hollow neighborhood of Hartford, and one inside Wedleyan RJ Julia Booksellers in Middletown.
Aside from books and beverages, they also have an amazing spread of baked goods.
Delaware
One of Delaware’s local chains, Brew Ha Ha! is so popular that it has a total of nine locations around the state. They’ve been brewing a popular Italian-inspired espresso for more than two decades.
Founder Alisa Morkides got the idea for her shop while on a trip to Tuscany. She came home and started the only coffee shop in Delaware to use locally roasted beans.
Florida
The Florida Panther is one of the most rare and endangered animals in the United States. Similarly, Panther Coffee is a rare kind of coffee shop in Miami—a city dominated by Cuban-style coffee.
The beans, curated from tiny farms, are roasted on-site, and origin details are posted on each variety they brew.
Panther Coffee - Guatemalan Finca El Limonar -Miami for a Quick Sip, oldtimefreedom
Georgia
According to some reports, there’s a lot of turnover in Georgia in the coffee shop business. But one shop that seems to last is the Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee. It has a few locations around Atlanta, a popular one being in Roswell.
These owners have a mission, and it’s not just great coffee—they’re known to serve a “high-quality cup of coffee that provides a living wage to coffee growers”.
Small Moments, Big Impact | Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee, Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee
Hawaii
According to reviews, the absolute best coffee shop in Hawaii is Kona Joe in Kealakekua, on the Kona coast of Hawaii. One Tripadvisor review went on to call it “the best coffee on the planet”. And another reviewer claimed she tried it on vacation and loved it so much that she now has a standing monthly order to get three pounds of beans shipped to her home in LA.
Visitors can do a full tour to see how coffee is grown before enjoying their brew overlooking the beautiful farm.
Kona Joe Coffee Farm - EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF, Lanuza Productions
Idaho
Flying M Coffee was started back in 1992 by three friends with a dream. It was then voted Best of Boise in the Boise Weekly for more than a decade. They now have three locations in Boise, Caldwell, and Nampa—and they have quite the story to tell.
For more than 20 years, this quirky coffee shop has hosted an annual Valentine for AIDS art benefit show, raising more than $500,000 to help those in the state living with HIV/AIDS.
Aside from their famous cup of joe, they also have daily made-from-scratch pastries available.
Made in Idaho: Flying M coffee still flying high, Idaho News 6
Illinois
Metropolis Coffee Company was started back in 2003 by a coffee-loving father and son duo. It has since grown into a successful wholesale business with an adorable little café in Chicago.
Reviews rave about their delicious baked goods too, specifically how well a slice of pie pairs with a perfectly roasted cup of joe.
They also offer tours of the roastery!
Chicago Scene at Metropolis Coffee Company, WGN News
Indiana
When it comes to Indiana’s “best of” lists, Starlight Coffee Co. often makes the list. According to its website, Starlight Coffee Co., which was founded in 2002, is the “oldest roaster operator in Southern Indiana”.
They roast their own beans on-site, and source them from green bean buyers to ensure they get the highest-grade specialty coffee available—and according to reviews, they do just that.
Starlight Coffee, Sellersburg, Indiana, BigRedTeam Living in Kentuckiana
Iowa
In Cedar Falls, you’ll find Cup of Joe: a colorful, one-of-a-kind espresso bar with 1950’s flair. Not only is the vibe totally awesome, the café features direct and fair trade, organic, shade grown seasonal coffee, house-made pastries including wheat free and vegan options, and weekly music and game night events.
Need we say more?
Cup of Joe: Growing From Mistakes, Alliance for Catholic Education
Kansas
Blackbird Espresso Bar & Bistro in Topeka, Kansas has a more chill vibe than Cup of Joe, but its ratings are just as impressive. One Tripadvisor review from a barista trainer and self-proclaimed “coffee snob” wrote “I had the best coffee of my LIFE here”, and went on to call it completely “faultless”. They are also praised for their vegan and vegetarian bistro options.
Try the Hot Oat Vanilla Latte.
Kentucky
Harden Coffee is located in a beautifully restored 19th-century building in Campbellsville, just a short drive away from Bourbon country. They have an on-site roastery and an on-site pastry chef. They’re also known for their intricate latte art!
Harden Coffee | Kentucky Life | KET, KET - Kentucky Educational Television
Louisiana
Café Du Monde is a famous spot in New Orleans, so surely, you’ve already heard of it. They’re known for the chicory roast brew and their “incredible” beignets. It was started way, way back in 1862, and today it stays open 24-hours year-round, closing only on Christmas—and for the occasional hurricane.
Cafe du Monde, PragmaticMom - Mia Wenjen
Maine
Bard Coffee, named for the Celtic order of poets who composed and recited verses celebrating the exploits of chieftains and heroes, is located across the street from a Starbucks—but this doesn’t prevent the order line from wrapping around the building.
Bard’s self-proclaimed mission is to tell the story of each cup of coffee they serve, promising a total coffee experience.
Bard Coffee Shop, Portland, Maine! 3/14/25., Wat Ompal Bai
Maryland
According to reviews, Spoons Cafe and Coffee has the best coffee—and the best biscuits—in the state. It was actually awarded two titles, “best kid-friendly restaurant” and “Baltimore’s best coffeehouse”.
They hand-roast all their coffee in the shop—creating an alluring scent that draws you in off the street.
Baltimore Brunch | Spoons . Coffee Roaster . Cafe, Abby Inspired
Massachusetts
Gracenote Coffee may be small, but it sure is mighty. Situated in a tiny space, they have a truly impressive espresso machine setup sure to impress any coffee snob. While customers most often do a grab-and-go order, some find charm in the Italian-style espresso machine leaning on the bar.
Michigan
MadCap Coffee Company in Grand Rapids is a spot that’s consistently rated among the best coffee shops in the country. Here, you can enjoy tasting flights or order your espresso in a snifter.
Plus, the company has a “zero-waste” policy, which turns all trash into either compost or recyclables.
Minnesota
If you’re looking for a good coffee bar in Minnesota, you’ll want to head to Paradise Coffee Roasters in Minneapolis. They specialize in single-origin exceptional coffee from producers in Hawaii, Thailand, Ecuador, Costa Rica, and more.
Sit down and enjoy a relaxing cup of joe, or go home with a big bag of beautiful beans.
Paradise Coffee Roasters ESPRESSO, Paradise Coffee Roasters
Mississippi
In Starkville, Mississippi, you’ll find Strange Brew Coffeehouse, which features coffee made with Mississippi-roasted beans—a local favorite. Reviews rave about the original flavors and drinks that they can’t find anywhere else, such as a Cap’n Crunch latte, a blueberry cobbler roast, or a sea turtle frappe.
Aside from delicious and intriguing drinks, the shop offers cozy couches and tables for lounging and working.
Missouri
Kansas City is said to be one of the coolest, and “most-underrated cities in the Midwest”—and they have a coffee scene to prove it. Oddly Correct Coffee offers in-house roasted coffee and tunes spun by a local DJ.
It gets even better. Reviews love the unique counters made from poured concrete with wood accents. And the coffee is so good that apparently if you want one of their weekly specialty coffees, you’re not allowed to add any milk or sugar.
Oddly Correct Coffee Eliminates Single Use To-Go Products in Kansas City, Flatland
Montana
If you like your coffee black and your drinks eco-friendly, you’ll want to check out Black Coffee Roasting Company in Missoula. The blends are all sustainable, organic, craft-roasted—and unbelievably delicious.
You can even do a Coffee Quiz on their website to find your perfect blend.
Nebraska
According to dozens of reviews on Tripadvisor, the best coffee shop in Nebraska is The Mill Coffee and Tea in Lincoln. Reviews boast about their “unrivaled” service, their welcoming ambiance, and of course their substantial coffee selection.
It’s also conveniently located in the middle of Lincoln’s entertainment district.
Nevada
Some of the best coffee you’ll find in Nevada will be at Coffee Cup Café in Boulder City. They call themselves “World Famous”, and have actually been featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Aside from outstanding coffee, they offer retro-style food cooked fresh to order.
New Hampshire
Because of its close proximity to Dartmouth College campus, Dirt Cowboy Café is a favorite among students. But according to reviews, people purposely travel to grab a cup of joe here.
Aside from a shabby-chic ambiance, the café is known for their in-house roasted beans, large selection of teas, and their signature hot chocolate made with homemade marshmallows.
New Jersey
Asbury Park’s Cafe Volan is a beach location that still manages to draw in crowds during the winter months, too. It boasts a rustic and relaxed vibe that appeals to all crowds. While the bakery options are said to be “outstanding”, the actual coffee itself is what people rave about the most.
New Mexico
There’s nothing better than supporting a small business—except maybe sipping a cup of hot joe while you’re doing it. Collected Works Bookstore and Coffeehouse in New Mexico has locally roasted Iconik coffee, baked goods, soups—and books. They’re a locally owned independent bookstore, with a circulating freshly-brewed coffee aroma.
What a dream!
New York
Recess Coffee House & Roastery in Syracuse is known not only as one of the top coffee shops in the state, but one of the top in the country as well. It has a warm and rustic atmosphere as it’s located inside the first floor of an old home.
Aside from its perfectly roasted coffee, reviews also rave about Recess’s delicious breakfast options and vegan baked goods.
North Carolina
If you’re lucky enough to visit North Carolina’s Outer Banks, make sure to stop by Ocracoke Coffee Company. This sweet little coffeehouse has been catering to island locals and visitors, offering perfectly smooth coffee and a relaxing but lively outdoor seating area.
Aside from reviews appreciating Ocracoke’s affordability, they are also known to have top-notch service and excellent food.
North Dakota
Babb’s Coffee House in Jamestown is a unique find. It’s Seattle-themed, with a large stage backdrop featuring the city’s skyline that is used during live music performances and poetry readings.
It’s located in a historical building that used to be the James River National Bank, and locals cannot get enough of the deliciously brewed coffee.
Ohio
Rising Star Coffee Roasters in Cleveland is known and loved for many reasons. From its historic location in the old Ohio City Firehouse to its locally roasted and organic beans, this coffee shop is so popular it has expanded several times.
With seven locations now, there is no shortage of Cleveland’s favorite coffee.
TCN Tell all: Rising Star Coffee Roasters, The Carroll News
Oklahoma
Hoboken Coffee Roasters is a cute little coffee shop that is known as a true gem in the community of Guthrie. It’s run by a husband-and-wife team who started their dream many years ago. Shortly after their wedding, they sold their car to buy an espresso machine—and now they’re one of the state’s finest coffee shops!
With a “cool” and rustic atmosphere, reviews rave about the nicely decorated setting and the “roasted to perfection” coffee options. The baked goods get a lot of praise, too.
Perfectly Roasted, Hoboken Coffee Roasters
Oregon
Apparently, the competition for best coffee in Oregon is tight. But according to reviews, Never Coffee in Portland is a must-try. Their flavors are truly unique, and said to be “absolutely delicious”. Try their flagship Flowers blend for wildflower florals, citrusy acidity, and notes of milk chocolate.
The décor is more modern here, but comfy nonetheless. The prices are affordable, and the service does not disappoint.
Pennsylvania
La Colombe now has locations across the country, but their 11,000-square-foot space in Philadelphia is said to be “an experience simply not to be missed”. It boasts a roastery, a tasting room, a pizza oven, and a rum distillery.
They're known for their delectable coffee, especially the “rich and creamy” lattes—but they also serve wine, beer, and a White Russian that gets good reviews.
La Colombe Coffee sold to Chobani for $900M, CBS Philadelphia
Rhode Island
Bolt Coffee Co. has four locations in Providence, and all of them are voted the best. They source their coffee sustainably from family farms in Honduras, Ethiopia, Kenya, Peru, and Colombia.
The atmosphere is larger and more modern, but the food and coffee are said to be delicious, and “made with care”.
Bolt Coffee - Building a Community, YurView
South Carolina
Kudu Coffee and Craft Beer in Charlston offers two main choices: coffee and beer. And they serve them to you on a gorgeous outdoor courtyard featuring a stunning water fountain—and no Wi-Fi, allowing you to unplug and unwind with a perfect cup of brew.
South Dakota
The best coffee in South Dakota is at Pump House in Deadwood, a beautiful studio where patrons can actually watch glass artists at work. They feature locally roasted coffee and freshly baked pastries, as well as beer and wine.
If all that doesn’t sound inviting enough, this coffee shop also offers a stunning view of the Black Hills while you sit back and relax.
Tennessee
Nashville’s Barista Parlor is a local favorite by far—probably because they are said to be “steeped in local flavor”. Everything is sustained locally, from the materials used to make barista’s aprons to the local artists hired to paint murals on the walls. The food and beans are all locally sourced, too, of course.
They also have an outdoor stage featuring local bands regularly.
Barista Parlor, @Sprudge Media
Texas
Blacksmith in Houston isn’t just a gorgeous rustic coffee shop; it is also widely known for its mouthwatering brunch selection. In fact, it’s so popular that it’s usually packed in the mornings, so you should get there early, if you can.
The coffee is said to be “smooth and rich”, with the Oat Flat White being commonly recommended.
Blacksmith Coffee Review (Houston) | Hunter Pence, Lets Get Lexi (Alexis Pence)
Utah
Park City Coffee Roaster is popular among the locals. Not only does it offer organic and Fair Trade Coffee, it also offers an array of delicious baked goods—including the “best scones in the city”—and a fantastic view of nearby peaks.
Vermont
Speeder & Earl’s Coffee is a family-owned specialty café and roastery that’s been serving hot coffee—and an abundance of beans—to Burlington for over three decades. Most people go in for a hot beverage and go out with a bag of beans in hand. It’s impossible not to!
And since you’re in Vermont, you have to try the maple French roast.
Virginia
Black Sheep Coffee is a small, locally owned coffee shop that offers a variety of coffee from different—but still local—coffee roasters. They also boast a large selection of both Rishi loose leaf tea blends and specialty artisan sodas from quirky East Coast suppliers—and of course, breakfast.
The café itself is beautifully decorated with a light, rustic vibe. They have comfy couches and lounge seating as well as tables and work spaces. On nice days, there’s a beautiful outdoor patio.
2-in1 Coffee Shop and Bar | Black Sheep Coffee, Stove Boi
Washington
In the state that made coffee shops famous, it can be tough to narrow down exactly which would be considered the “best”, but according to reviews, Seattle’s Starbucks Reserve Roastery tops the list.
While it is super busy most of the time, one Tripadvisor review says “the atmosphere is electric and there is so much to explore”. Another review claims the two different order counters can be confusing, but that the “viewing area” where patrons can watch coffee being roasted is pretty neat. There’s tours and tastings available, too!
Visit to Starbucks Reserve® Roastery in Seattle a dream come true, Starbucks Coffee
West Virginia
When it comes to the “best” in West Virginia, there is one coffee shop that checks all the boxes: Quantum Bean Coffee in Morgantown. They source all of their coffees sustainably and foster personal relationships with their farmers, following a “farm to cup” approach.
The lovely downtown café offers a wide range of specialty coffee as well as drip coffee, and has a large painted mural on the side of the building, so you can’t miss it! Yelp reviews claim, “If you’re a coffee snob, you will not be disappointed here”.
Wisconsin
Colectivo Coffee has 12 locations in Milwaukee and has been around since 1993—though it was originally called Alterra Coffee Roasters. The waterfront location is situated right on the lake in a charming old water pumping station.
Aside from their delicious coffee and extravagant menu, they also offer free tastings, brewing demos, and Monday night classical music concerts.
Colectivo Coffee set to open new location in Madison, WMTV | News, Weather & Sports
Wyoming
Family-owned Paramount Café in Cheyenne has been rated the best coffee shop in Wyoming by Espresso Gurus. Not only do they have an “extraordinary” variety of coffee, but the café has a cozy, vintage-home vibe that welcomes everyone from tourists to working locals.
Reviews specifically rave about the quality of the coffee, the menu options, and the variety of seating—including a cozy outdoor patio.
Most INTERESTING Coffee Shop in Cheyenne Wyoming, Travels Uncorked
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