Best Coffee Shops in the U.S.

Nothing says good morning like a great cup of coffee. While coffee shops are ubiquitous, some offer a uniquely inviting atmosphere that makes them stand out. Moreover, studies suggest that drinking coffee may contribute to a longer life. Ezra Baker, a certified Q Grader by the Coffee Quality Institute, emphasizes the significance of a genuine ambiance paired with a cool aesthetic in selecting a coffee shop.

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With extensive experience in coffee tasting, Baker provides his recommendations for the best coffee shops across the country. Below are his top picks:

Black Fox Coffee Co – New York City, NY

Experience Black Fox Coffee Co.’s All Day blend featuring hints of honey, toffee, and red apple, or savor a sesame chai latte made from Oatly and Dona chai concentrate. Start your day with a Pain D’avignon almond croissant or Matcha bundt cake at this airy Financial District coffee shop, alongside its other locations on West 33rd Street (inside the Pendry Hotel), East 45th Street, and Wall Street (reopening soon).

Coffee Manufactory – Los Angeles, CA

Coffee Manufactory, which started in 2016, proudly roasts blends for Tartine Bakery. It has since expanded with locations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seoul. When in Los Angeles, do not miss sampling the Africa coffee blend, featuring 100% Ethiopia Geta Bora with notes of peach and tangerine, alongside a dark roast made from beans sourced from Colombia and Honduras.

Gimme Coffee – Ithaca, NY

Established in 2000, Gimme Coffee offers single-origin roasts such as Honduras Sagastume and Guatemala Guaya’b. They favor “worn spaces that call for a little revitalization” in their café selections.

Stumptown Coffee Roasters – Portland, OR

At Stumptown Coffee Roasters, you’ll experience the aromatic ambiance of freshly roasted beans from their initial coffee shop in Portland, which opened in 1999. Their extensive offerings, including the creamy Hair Bender blend and bottled cold brew, are an absolute delight.

Sey Coffee – Brooklyn, NY

In this East Williamsburg café, guests can unwind beneath lush plants while enjoying carefully crafted lattes. Sey Coffee emphasizes a unique coffee experience, allowing patrons to “sniff, slurp, and discuss” their brews monthly inside the roastery.

The Wormhole Coffee – Chicago, IL

Located in Chicago’s vibrant Wicker Park, The Wormhole Coffee serves a diverse range of beverages including their famous Koopa-Troopa latte, a unique blend of peanut butter mousse and dark chocolate. With house-made syrups and sauces, Chicagoans enjoy an inviting caffeine experience.

Madcap Coffee – Grand Rapids, MI

Madcap Coffee is committed to quality, sampling around 3,000 coffees annually to curate the finest options for customers. Enjoy their expertly crafted coffee with a delicious spinach and feta croissant or a nutritious yogurt topped with warming spices.

Everyman Espresso – New York City, NY

With a relaxed neighborhood vibe, Everyman Espresso feels accessible for everyone. Situated in both the East Village and Park Slope, grab a pastry and cappuccino to enjoy while watching the bustling city outside.

Barista – Portland, OR

Barista’s cozy cafes emanate the warmth of Portland, serving delightful cups of single-origin coffee, complete with roasts sweetened with Oregon hazelnut syrup or house vanilla.

G&B Coffee – Los Angeles, CA

Located in downtown Los Angeles’s historic Grand Central Market, G&B Coffee showcases classic selection alongside inventive options like the Business and Pleasure—a delightful blend of double espresso and almond macadamia cappuccino. Pair it with an English muffin and housemade jam for a satisfying start to your day.

Spiller Park Coffee – Atlanta, GA

With charming nostalgia, Spiller Park Coffee invites patrons to linger with options like their Shake, Shake iced latte or a unique Cola-Cocktail made with espresso and coconut milk. Combine it with dishes like green tomato shakshuka or cinnamon-sugar toast for an enjoyable experience.

Cherry Street Coffee House – Seattle, WA

Embrace the cozy atmosphere of Cherry Street Coffee House while sipping on a dirty chai latte or a Milkyway mocha. Their extensive menu features breakfast sandwiches and various salads, ideal for a rainy Seattle afternoon.

Ritual – San Francisco, CA

At Ritual Coffee Roasters, employees pour their passion into every cup, whether it’s a straightforward black coffee or seasonal espresso. Their airy, inviting space mirrors San Francisco’s laid-back vibe.

Muchacho – Atlanta, GA

Discover the unexpected pairing of tacos and coffee at Muchacho in Atlanta. Their offerings include Baja fish and chicken mole tacos, perfectly complemented by an Americano or iced coffee for a delightful twist on classic flavors.

Andytown Coffee Roasters – San Francisco, CA

Andytown Coffee Roasters welcomed its guests with abundant natural light and elegant designs. Their popular Short Strand espresso combines sweetness with notes of toffee, perfectly suited for foggy San Francisco days.

Red Bay Coffee – Oakland, CA

Red Bay Coffee is committed to providing beautiful coffee to all. They focus on inclusivity within the specialty coffee industry, ensuring everyone feels welcomed. Engage with their roasting process at their public location in Oakland.