Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia's coffee scene is as rich and diverse as the city itself. Beyond the ubiquitous chains, Philly boasts a thriving independent coffee culture, with cafés serving everything from expertly pulled espresso and classic lattes to inventive specialty drinks and single-origin beans. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to study, a neighborhood favorite, or a taste of Vietnamese coffee, Philadelphia has a coffee shop to suit your needs.
Philadelphia's Coffee Culture: A Guide to the City's Best Cafés and Roasters
This article guides you through some of the best.
Philadelphia's Coffee Hotspots:
1. Jiggy Coffee (Washington Square West): Inventive Lattes in a Laid-Back Setting
Jiggy Coffee in Washington Square West is a standout for its inventive lattes. This laid-back spot offers a creative twist on classic coffee drinks, making it a great choice for those seeking something beyond the ordinary.
- Location: Washington Square West, Philadelphia, PA
- Highlights: Inventive lattes, laid-back atmosphere, unique coffee drinks, Washington Square West location
2. Vernick Coffee Bar (Comcast Technology Center): Award-Winning Coffee and More
Vernick Coffee Bar, located in the Comcast Technology Center, is more than just a coffee shop; it's a culinary destination. Helmed by James Beard Award-winning Chef Greg Vernick (of Vernick Food + Drink), this spot offers seasonal lattes and espressos, along with baked goods and lunch options.
- Location: Comcast Technology Center, Philadelphia, PA
- Highlights: James Beard Award-winning chef, seasonal lattes and espressos, baked goods, lunch options, upscale coffee experience
3. Elixr Coffee Roasters (Multiple Locations): Single-Origin Beans and a Butterscotch Pink Peppercorn Latte
Elixr Coffee Roasters, a neighborhood favorite with multiple locations, is known for its commitment to quality and its unique flavor combinations. They roast their own single-origin beans, and their butterscotch pink peppercorn latte is a must-try. Elixr is also praised as a great place to get work done, making it a popular spot for students and remote workers.
- Locations: Multiple locations across Philadelphia
- Highlights: Single-origin beans, butterscotch pink peppercorn latte, neighborhood favorite, great for studying or working, coffee roaster
4. Rival Bros Coffee (Rittenhouse Square): A Friendly Rittenhouse Spot
Rival Bros Coffee, with a location in Rittenhouse Square, is known for its friendly atmosphere. This coffee shop offers a welcoming vibe and a focus on quality coffee. They are a great coffee roaster.
- Location: Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Highlights: Friendly atmosphere, Rittenhouse Square location, quality coffee, welcoming vibe, coffee roaster
5. Ultimo Coffee (Multiple Locations): A Must-Visit for Coffee Enthusiasts
Ultimo Coffee is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts in Philadelphia. With multiple locations, Ultimo is known for its expertly crafted espresso drinks and its commitment to sourcing high-quality beans. They are a coffee roaster.
- Locations: Multiple locations across Philadelphia
- Highlights: Must-visit for coffee enthusiasts, expertly crafted espresso, high-quality beans, coffee roaster
6. Good Karma Cafe (Multiple Locations): Cozy, Organic, and Fair Trade
Good Karma Cafe, with multiple locations, is a cozy spot that emphasizes organic and fair trade ingredients. They offer a variety of coffee drinks, including unique options like turmeric and matcha lattes. Good Karma also provides ample seating, making it a comfortable place to relax or work.
- Locations: Multiple locations across Philadelphia
- Highlights: Cozy spot, organic and fair trade ingredients, turmeric and matcha lattes, ample seating, great for relaxing or working
7. Càphê Roasters (Kensington): Philadelphia's First and Only Vietnamese Coffee Roaster
Càphê Roasters is a unique gem in Philadelphia – the city's first and only Vietnamese coffee roaster. This Kensington spot offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese coffee, with its strong, bold flavors and traditional brewing methods.
- Location: Kensington, Philadelphia, PA
- Highlights: First and only Vietnamese coffee roaster in Philadelphia, authentic Vietnamese coffee, strong and bold flavors, unique coffee experience, Kensington location
Other Notable Philadelphia Coffee Shops:
- A La Mousse (Chinatown): A Chinatown coffee shop.
- La Colombe Coffee Roasters (Multiple Locations): A Philadelphia-based coffee roaster with a Rittenhouse Square location (and others).
- Menagerie Coffee (Society Hill): A Society Hill coffee shop.
Philadelphia's coffee scene is a vibrant and diverse landscape, offering everything from classic espresso drinks to innovative lattes and unique cultural experiences. Whether you're a local or a visitor, be sure to explore these and other coffee shops and discover your own favorite cup of coffee in the City of Brotherly Love!
