Best Coffee Shops in Atlanta

Discover Atlanta's top coffee shops from cozy neighborhood cafes to trendy third-wave roasters.

ByFun Around Me Team

3 min read

Atlanta's coffee scene has exploded over the past decade, transforming from a city of chain cafes to a thriving hub of independent roasters and specialty coffee shops. From the industrial-chic spaces of the Westside to the cozy neighborhood spots in Virginia-Highland, Atlanta offers coffee lovers an impressive array of options. Whether you're seeking the perfect pour-over, a quiet workspace, or a vibrant community gathering spot, the city's diverse coffee culture has something for everyone. The local roasting scene is particularly strong, with several shops roasting their own beans and sourcing directly from farmers around the world.

Key Takeaways

Atlanta has over 200 independent coffee shops across the metro area
Best neighborhoods for coffee: Midtown, Virginia-Highland, Decatur, Old Fourth Ward, and Westside
Many shops roast their own beans and offer unique single-origin options
Most coffee shops are laptop-friendly with strong WiFi and ample seating
Prices range from $3-7 for specialty drinks, comparable to other major cities

Top Coffee Shops in Atlanta

Here are the must-visit coffee spots that define Atlanta's coffee culture, from award-winning roasters to beloved neighborhood hangouts.

1. The Modern Coffee House

100 Main Street, Atlanta

Savor exceptional cuisine at this beloved Atlanta establishment, where fresh ingredients and culinary creativity come together beautifully.

Highlights:

Weekend brunch with bottomless options
Homemade pasta and breads
Open kitchen allowing chef interaction
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Happy hour with small plates

2. Cafe Atlanta

223 Broadway, Atlanta

This acclaimed Atlanta dining destination showcases innovative flavors and traditional techniques in every carefully crafted dish.

Highlights:

Private dining room for groups
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Sommelier-selected wine pairings

3. Original Roastery

346 Park Avenue, Atlanta

Experience authentic Atlanta flavors at this popular spot, known for its commitment to quality ingredients and memorable presentations.

Highlights:

Cozy intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions
Private dining room for groups
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Craft cocktails using house-made ingredients
Vegetarian and vegan options available

4. Central Coffee Bar

469 Market Street, Atlanta

Discover culinary excellence at this Atlanta favorite, where passionate chefs create dishes that celebrate local and seasonal ingredients.

Highlights:

Outdoor patio seating with city views
Private dining room for groups
Sommelier-selected wine pairings
Desserts made in-house daily
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity

5. Premium Espresso Bar

592 Washington Street, Atlanta

This charming Atlanta eatery has earned its reputation through consistently delicious food, warm hospitality, and attention to detail.

Highlights:

Cozy intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions
Craft cocktails using house-made ingredients
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Desserts made in-house daily
Sommelier-selected wine pairings

6. Atlanta's Coffee House

715 Elm Street, Atlanta

Indulge in creative cuisine at this Atlanta gem, where each dish tells a story of flavor, tradition, and culinary innovation.

Highlights:

Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers
Locally roasted coffee and artisan teas
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Takeout and delivery available

7. Riverside Local Cafe

838 Maple Avenue, Atlanta

From the first bite to the last, this Atlanta restaurant delivers an exceptional dining experience that keeps guests returning.

Highlights:

Extensive wine list featuring rare vintages
Homemade pasta and breads
Daily specials featuring seasonal ingredients
Locally roasted coffee and artisan teas
Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers

8. Roastery Atlanta

961 Oak Street, Atlanta

This Atlanta culinary hotspot combines inviting atmosphere with outstanding food, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Highlights:

Vegetarian and vegan options available
Sommelier-selected wine pairings
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Craft cocktails using house-made ingredients
Happy hour with small plates

9. Hidden Coffee Bar

1084 Pine Street, Atlanta

Taste the difference at this Atlanta establishment, where quality ingredients and skilled preparation result in unforgettable meals.

Highlights:

Craft cocktails using house-made ingredients
Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers
Takeout and delivery available
Extensive wine list featuring rare vintages
Happy hour with small plates

10. Urban Espresso Bar

1207 Cedar Avenue, Atlanta

Whether you're a local or visitor, this Atlanta dining spot offers the perfect blend of delicious food and welcoming ambiance.

Highlights:

Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers
Locally roasted coffee and artisan teas
Desserts made in-house daily
Cozy intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (7-9 AM) are busiest with the work crowd. For a quieter experience, visit mid-afternoon (2-4 PM) on weekdays. Weekends are busy but have a more relaxed, social atmosphere.

Average Price

$4-7 per drink. Drip coffee typically $3-4, specialty drinks $5-7. Most shops offer loyalty programs that provide discounts after multiple visits.

Parking Tips

Most coffee shops have street parking or nearby lots. In popular areas like Virginia-Highland and Ponce City Market, arrive early or use public transit. Many shops are accessible via MARTA or the BeltLine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Octane Coffee, Taproom Coffee, and Chattahoochee Coffee Company are excellent for remote work. They offer spacious seating, strong WiFi, plenty of outlets, and a laptop-friendly atmosphere. Weekday afternoons are typically less crowded than mornings.

Chattahoochee Coffee Company, Brash Coffee, and Condesa Coffee all roast their own beans in-house. This means you're getting the freshest possible coffee and can often purchase beans to take home.

Many Atlanta coffee shops have dog-friendly outdoor patios, including Brash Coffee, Hodgepodge Coffeehouse, and Muchacho. Always check with individual shops about their pet policies, and remember that dogs typically aren't allowed inside due to health codes.

The Westside (around Howell Mill Road and Chattahoochee Avenue) has the highest concentration of excellent coffee shops, including Octane, Chattahoochee Coffee Company, and Taproom. Virginia-Highland and Decatur are also great for exploring multiple shops on foot.

Yes! Most Atlanta coffee shops partner with local bakeries or have their own food programs. Hodgepodge and Muchacho have full menus, while shops like Octane and Condesa offer excellent pastries and light bites. Many shops also accommodate dietary restrictions with vegan and gluten-free options.

Most coffee shops open between 7-8 AM on weekdays and 8-9 AM on weekends. Some shops like Hodgepodge stay open late (until 11 PM or midnight on weekends), while others close by early evening (5-7 PM).

Atlanta doesn't have many 24-hour independent coffee shops, but some locations stay open late. Hodgepodge Coffeehouse has extended hours on weekends. For late-night coffee, you might need to rely on chain options or diners.

East Pole Coffee at Ponce City Market is directly on the BeltLine. Octane's Westside location and several other shops are within a short walk of BeltLine access points. The BeltLine is a great way to explore multiple coffee shops by bike or on foot.