Let it be known caffeine addicts, you live in one of the best cities to stoke or soothe your affliction. Philly has a lot going for it in the realm of food and drink, but when it comes to coffee we’re ridiculously spoiled for great locally roasted bean options, beautiful coffee shops and expert baristas. Our coffee scene has been growing exponentially over the past five years fueled by the injection of camaraderie and leadership by hubs like Elixr, Bodhi and Ultimo; some of whom’s talented baristas have stepped out on their own to launch shops and help continue to build the thriving coffee scene in Philadelphia. In honor of National Coffee Break Day (January 20), here are a handful of great spots to enjoy a well-made cup of joe.
W/N W/N Coffee Bar
Located in the Loft District and helmed by Elixr and Pizza Brain alums, this newcomer is leading the way in the realm of coffee shop/bar hybrid. In addition to coffee, they’ve got beers, cocktails and wine on their menu, as well as a selection of small bites. This Thursday (Jan. 22) they’re hosting a Coffee/Cocktail Throwdown, with some of city’s “bravest baristas and boldest bartenders”. Pretty much all the coffee shops mentioned in this post will be on hand competing so go check it out! Throwdown starts at 7:30 P.M. (931 Spring Garden St.)
Photo by Drink Philly
La Colombe Fishtown
Epic doesn’t even begin to describe this place. It’s one of the most ambitious restaurants/coffee shops we’ve got going so far in Philly. La Colombe’s approach to coffee has evolved a bit over the last three years or so, most noticeably they’ve embraced offering hand pours whereas before one could only order espresso drinks and drip coffee. They’ve also expanded into the world of spirits and launched Different Drum rum; at their Fishtown location you can purchase it by the shot or bottle. Also on hand are a fresh selection of food and pastries made in-house. (1335 Frankford Ave.; 267-479-1600)
Menagerie Coffee
A beautiful little spot in Old City from two former Bodhi and Elixr alums (April Nett and Elysa DiMauro). The interior decor has some very cute vintage finds that contrast with earthy wood elements, like tree stumps that found a second life as tables. Enjoy unique hand poured offerings of Dogwood coffee, espresso drinks, sandwiches and a nice space to get some work done. (18 S 3rd St.)
Green Street Coffee
Occupying the old spot of the great and much missed OG Spruce Street Coffee, Green Street is low-key and one of the best coffee shops/roasters in the city. They offer some solid hand pours and excellent espresso drinks. Roasted in South Philly, their single-origin beans are a great buy and a suitable introduction to brewing delicious coffee at home. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations either. (1101 Spruce St.; 610-504-3934)
Square One Coffee
Hailing from Lancaster, this award-winning small family-owned shop is another that is under the radar, but offers some exceptional locally roasted beans. Located in Washington Square West, the shop features a large open plan that is beautifully decorated; the impressive yellow La Marzocco espresso machine is the centerpiece. Unlike some super buzzy coffee shops, this is a spot where you can go and unwind for a bit or get some work done without too much distraction. Also on offer is a lovely little lunch menu. (249 S 13th St.; 267-758-6352)
ReAnimator Coffee
New kids on the block! The young owners (Mark Corpus and Mark Capriotti) have been roasting their own beans for a few years now and have an amazing passion for coffee. Their roastery started very humbly, and after hustling to promote their beans without a full shop they’ve opened up not one, but two coffee shops; check them out in Kensington (310 W Master St.) and in Fishtown. (1523 E Susquehana Ave.; 215-425-5805)
Rival Bros. Coffee
Started from a truck and now they’re here. After toiling away on a food truck and popping up at food festivals, Love Park and private events, the bros (Jonathan Adams and Damien Pileggi) finally found a permanent home in Graduate Hospital. The shop’s cool and masculine vibe reflects a sensibility that rings true to their brand’s ethos. Tuck in for a delicious cup of coffee made with their small-batch locally roasted beans, along with some toast or pastries made especially for the shop by the talented folks over at High Street on Market. (2400 Lombard St.)
Photo by Mike Perisco
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