Coffee is truly the drink of the gods. Originally cultivated in Ethiopia, the delicius and utilitarian beverage has become a favorite for cultures from Europe to South America. Drink it hot. Enjoy it on ice. Drown it with milk, sugar, cream, or just down it black as nature intended. Take it with breakfast or after a big dinner. Do whatever you want with your coffee, but Boston, we impore you to drink the best.
Whether you're just looking for a way to get through your morning or consider yourself a true connoisseur, we scoured the city to find the best darn brews from Somerville to Dedham. Here's a list of our 10 favorite, must-try cafés for any coffee lover in Boston.
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Nine Bar Espresso
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11 Holland St, Somerville|Website
You won't run out of options at Nine Bar. Providing Bostonians with locally-roasted coffee by Gracenote Coffee Roasters and freshly baked pastries from A&J King Bakery, the conveniently-located coffee spot is great for trying new things. We recommend their deep green Matcha Latte, but you can always stick to the classics – Cappuccinos, Americanos and Lattes.
Gracenote Coffee
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108 Lincoln St; 150 First St, Cambridge|Website
Any coffee enthusiast will appreciate Gracenote’s commitment to roasting coffee to its full potential. Sit back and relax with their creamy cappuccino, or cool off with their nitro cold brew. The high-quality taste of their unique artisanal process is paired with the old-school vibe of the café, making sure each sip is soothing for your soul. The pandemic has brought some restrictions, but you can still get your favorite Gracenote cup with sidewalk pickup.
Ogawa Coffee
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10 Milk Street|Website
If you’re one to savor your coffee rather than grab-and-go, this is the place for you. Ogawa Coffee is run by artisans from Kyoto, Japan, and the menu takes you through a sensory journey. Their unique, Japanese-style coffee roasting process features beans from Kyoto, adding a bit of culture to your coffee experience. Ogawa is currently taking online order for takeout. Try their Kiyomizu Blend or their seasonal Smoked Maple Latte to start off your day.
Tradesman Coffee Shop and Lounge
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58 Batterymarch St.|Website
Coffee fanatics don't care if it's day or not. They just want their fix. Tradesman Coffee Shop and Lounge provides early risers and night owls an equally delectable experience. The old-world mixed with a contemporary vibe provides the perfect place to unwind, especially when paired with their creamy latte in the am or a “Cold” Fashioned caffeine-infused cocktail at night. This coffee shop and lounge also offers a selection of creative pastries topped with sprinkles as well as sandwiches to go with your drink. Dine-in and takeout are available at this location. Give it a try.
George Howell Coffee
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505 Washington St.; Public Market, 100 Hanover St |Website
Providing caffeine to Bostonians since 2004, George Howell never disappoints. Kick start your morning with a shot of their Alchemy Espresso or sip on their Pour Over – Peru. This coffee shop has an impressive selection of brews from Kenya to Brazil, Costa Rica and more. You can literally expect anything and everything. Take home one of their international blends to try in the comfort of your own home, or put in an order for takeout at both locations.
See also: Save this For Cheat Day: 8 Boston Spots with the Most Delicious Pasta Dishes
Cuppacoffee
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1 Merrimac St.; 57 Traveler St / Website
Cuppacoffee brings Australia to Boston with nostalgic Aussie treats to fill you up. Whether you’re looking for a grab-and-go latte or want to savor each sip of their Vienna Coffee, the menu is broad and diverse. If you’re feeling hungry, try their signature Aussie pie, some Carmello Koalas, or Freddo Frogs. The café on Merrimac Street is currently only doing takeout during COVID, but you can enjoy a sit-down experience on Traveler Street.
1369 Coffee House
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757 Massachusetts Ave; 1369 Cambridge St|Website
Well known for their house blends and coffee roasts from all around the world, this coffee house offers a fresh and tasty variety of choices to help fuel your morning. Try their signature French Roast, or sip on specialty drinks like their Vietnamese Coffee, London Fog or seasonally-popular frozen Mocha Slide. Both locations are offering takeout and delivery, with direct online deivery available Mondays through Fridays.
Flat Black Coffee
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260 Franklin St. |Website
Transport yourself to another world with Flat Black’s international blends. This small yet comfortable café has a strong selection of both coffee and teas, along with some tasty treats. Flat Black Coffee prides itself on its sustainable, single-origin coffees. We know you'll be pleased with the quality of flavor with each sip. Takeout is currently available.
Broadsheet Coffee Roasters
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100 Kirkland St.|Website
If you’re looking for an easy morning breakfast, this café has a sizeable list of coffees and espressos with a choice of plain or chocolate croissants. Sit back and enjoy your morning - or even your afternoon - in this cozy spot, or stop by on the way to work for a much-needed cup of energy.
Render Coffee
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563 Columbus Ave| Website
Cozy up at this atmospheric café with a fresh cup of coffee. Start your morning sweetly with a hazelnut or vanilla latte. We also really like their famous breakfast sandwiches. This café is a nice and easy place to catch up with friends or enjoy your morning in a relaxed and laidback way.
Photography by: REDA&CO;