Austin’s Best Brew: A Local’s Guide to the Top 10 Coffee Shops in Austin

Sip into the soul of Austin’s vibrant coffee scene with this comprehensive guide to the Top 10 Coffee Shops in Austin.

The coffee culture in Austin, Texas, is a blend of traditional and innovative, offering something for everyone. To help you navigate this bustling scene, we’ve crafted a detailed guide to the top 10 coffee shops in Austin, taking you from chic coffee houses to vintage trailers. Get ready to stimulate your senses and go on a unique caffeine journey in the heart of Texas.

1. Houndstooth Coffee

Caffeine-fix with a Chic Vibe

With its warm vibe and phenomenal coffee, Houndstooth Coffee has made a name for itself among the top 10 coffee shops in Austin. Sleek hardwood interiors, complemented by the signature hounds-tooth pattern on the walls, make for a stylish setting, while the rotating menu of freshly roasted, carefully selected beans ensures a unique experience with every visit. – Knowledgeable baristas will guide you through their seasonal offerings, allowing you to experience a variety of exciting flavors.
– Looking for something more than a hot drink? Houndstooth also offers a curated selection of teas and juices as well as a small but impressive line-up of sweet and savory baked goods. – Multiple locations, including one in downtown Austin and another near the University of Texas, ensure that great coffee is never too far away.

2. Cenote

Historic Charm Meets Modern Buzz

Nestled in a beautiful 1887 house, Cenote is one of Austin’s most cherished coffee destinations.
– Known for their commitment to organic, locally sourced ingredients, Cenote’s menu includes both fantastic espresso brews and delightful brunch options, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely start to your day. – The patio at this charming cafe offers great people-watching opportunities on Cesar Chavez Street or you could sit by the vibrant, graffiti-covered wall indoors for a different vibe. – As the day transitions into the evening, Cenote transforms into a bustling hub where you can enjoy their unique wine and beer offerings.

3. Patika

Minimalist Marvel Brewing Bold Flavors

Patika’s minimalist vibe makes it stand out among Austin’s top coffee shops. Located in the heart of vibrant South Congress, Patika is the perfect escape with its clean, modern lines, and serene ambiance. – Their meticulously brewed coffee pairs perfectly with their must-try pastries, making your coffee experience a complete one. – Patika isn’t just for morning or afternoon visits, thanks to its extended evening hours. As nightfall descends, the coffee shop transitions into an intimate wine and appetizer joint with fabulous vino choices.

4. Fleet Coffee

Quirky Quarters Serving Stand-out Brews

Fleet Coffee is a breath of fresh air within the Austin coffee scene, delivering innovative, ambitious, and flavorful beverages. – The small but mighty coffee shop offers signature drinks like the Gold Rush, blending coffee with milk, honey, and smoky Lapsang Souchong tea. – With engaged owners on-site and heartfelt brewing techniques, Fleet will add a fun, coffee adventure to your Austin expedition! – The more traditional coffee lover isn’t forgotten, with robust espresso and cold brew offerings to satisfy all palettes.

5. Figure 8 Coffee Purveyors

East Austin’s Essential Espresso Stop

Figure 8 is more than just a coffee shop, it’s a vibrant meeting point in the heart of East Austin. Cozy and inviting, it exudes a neighborhood feel that locals have quickly embraced. – They feature a rotating selection of roasters from around the country, making Figure 8 a must-visit for anyone excited about the breadth of the US coffee scene. – Their commitment to creating an inclusive space extends into organizing regular community events, making it more than just a place to grab your morning coffee.

6. Flitch Coffee

Vintage Trailer Turned Coffee Heaven

Housed in a charmingly restored vintage trailer, Flitch Coffee is truly a hidden gem among Austin’s coffee offerings. – Their coffee, sourced from the best roasters across the nation, is best enjoyed in their lovely outdoor setting, shaded by a giant oak tree. – Friendly and inviting, it’s not unusual to see locals working on their laptops or engaging in stimulating conversations while savoring their brew.

7. Greater Goods Roasting

Sustainable Sips with Social Impact

Greater Goods brings together impeccable coffee and philanthropy, making it a standout pick in our top 10 coffee shops in Austin. – Each blend supports local charities, under their ‘Roast with a Purpose’ philosophy. Every cup sipped contributes to a good cause — what could be better! – Greater Goods also hosts comprehensive, hands-on training classes for coffee enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of their favorite brew.

8. Seventh Flag Coffee

Patriotic Passion in Every Poured Cup

Seventh Flag embodies the friendly spirit of Austin, offering excellent coffee in an inviting, patriotic setting. – Its comfy space with outdoor patio, splashed with Texas pride, beckons coffee lovers to lounge longer. – With premium roasts sourced nationwide, Seventh Flag ensures that each cup is a worthy tribute to the country and its rich coffee culture.

9. Epoch Coffee

A 24/7 Grind Spot for Night Owls

Bestowed as the ‘Austin’s Official Coffee Shop to Pull an All-Nighter’, Epoch is essentially a haven for students, artists, and night owls. – The bustling atmosphere of this coffee shop is perfect for getting work done or fueling late-night conversations – Epoch boasts an innovative drink menu too! The Iced Mojo — a blend of cold brew, milk, and a dash of chocolate — is a true fan favorite. – Offering ample indoor and outdoor seating, Epoch’s 24/7 availability ensures that great coffee is always accessible, no matter what the clock says.

10. Mozart’s Coffee Roasters

Riverside Relaxation and Robust Roasts

Overlooking beautiful Lake Austin, Mozart’s offers more than just great coffee — it offers an experience! – Enjoy a cup of their carefully roasted coffee as you gaze on the majestic lake views, and if you’re lucky, catch performances by local musicians. – Mozart’s fantastic on-site roasting and an extensive selection of baked treats add another layer to your visit. – Don’t miss their magical Annual Christmas Light Show held every November-January which is truly a sight to behold.

Reading about these exceptional coffee shops in this guide to the Top 10 Coffee Shops in Austin is only the beginning. Each café on our list is a symbol of Austin’s thriving coffee culture, blending distinct ambiance and top-quality brews to create experiences that Austin will forever embed in your memory.

Set off on your Austin coffee adventure and experience the magic of each shop first-hand. Whether you’re an Austin native or just visiting, these are experiences you can carry with you, one phenomenal coffee cup at a time!

Lauren Critzer

I was born in Charlottesville, Virginia and after college, I moved to San Francisco to explore new opportunities and broaden my horizons. I fell in love with the city's vibrant culture and unique atmosphere, but eventually, I moved again, this time to Austin, Texas.

As much as I loved living in different parts of the country, having a baby boy brought me back to my hometown in Charlottesville, where I now live with my husband, our little one, and two furry friends. I enjoy going to wineries, taking my pups everywhere, and spending quality time with my family.

Receive the latest news

Get the Inside Scoop!

Austin’s latest events and eats, straight to your inbox. Subscribe now!