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Four lattes sit in cups with spoons at Citizens of Montrose.
Grab a cuppa at Citizens Of Montrose.
Becca Wright

26 Essential Coffee Shops in Houston

Where to sip the strongest espressos, iciest cold brews, and creamiest cortados

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Grab a cuppa at Citizens Of Montrose.
| Becca Wright

Finding the perfect cup of coffee or tea in Houston isn’t a difficult task. The city boasts a plethora of haunts that serve up excellent cold and hot brews, chai, and toddies — ideal for caffeine on-the-go or leisurely sipping. But for some, it’s not just about the drink. It’s about the ambiance, too.

Looking for a late-night study locale, the perfect spot to caffeinate whilst writing that breakthrough novel, or a place to have a boozy chat with your squad? Refer to Eater Houston’s map of the essential coffee shops in Houston.

This list has been updated to rotate out Blue Tile Coffee, Bohemeo’s, Wild, Coffee Fellows, Slowpokes and Luce Coffee Roaster, and now includes new additions Rado Market, Eden Plant Co., White Tile Coffee, Fifth Vessel, Refuge Coffee & Cocktail Bar, Campesino Coffee House #2, and OSO Coffee Co.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.

Sunday Press

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This Garden Oaks gem has a drive-thru for easy to-go orders, but it’s essential to take a step inside to experience the aesthetically-pleasing space, where cushion-lined banquettes and plush furniture pepper the room. Go for the coffee and beverages, and stay for mouthwatering eats like the Japanese egg salad sandwich, PB&J overnight oats or the viral croissant swirl in five different flavors.

Sunday Press’s coffee bar and dining area.
Sunday Press’s food and drinks options are just as pretty as its cafe.
Sunday Press

Tenfold Coffee Company

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The roastery isn’t just for show at Tenfold Coffee — this bar roasts its own brew and offers a fine atmosphere in which to enjoy it. The industrial-style space is softened with the addition of tall, leafy plants. Likewise, floor-to-ceiling windows that illuminate the interior with the morning light, make it a hot spot for the work-from-home crowd.

A person works on a machine that roasts beans at Tenfold Coffee Company in the Heights.
Experience freshly roasted coffee and unique blends at Tenfold.
Eric Walley

Simply Coffie

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Explore the many coffee countries at this specialty coffee house in the Heights, which roasts and brews blends from countries that include Ethiopia, Colombia, Costa Rica, and most recently an award-winning batch from Panama. Coffee purists can delight in their decision to not use artificial sweeteners or sugar (you won’t find them anywhere in-store), and those interested in extra flavor can delight in its seasonal options, such as the fall-themed Pumpkin Patch or the Kiano, a coffee drink made with real kiwi.

Roast & Brew

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Though expresso-based beverages and breakfast fare like buildable omelets and bagels are a surefire staple here, European influence reigns over the food and drink menu at this Heights cafe. Greek frappes are served alongside falafel and hummus, gyro sandwiches, meatballs with tzatziki, and glass cases stocked with spanakopita. Beyond the morning fare, there’s a daily happy hour from 2 to 5 p.m., with $2 off wines by the glass and 20 percent off bottles on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 

Boomtown Coffee

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This quintessential Heights coffee shop is the archetype for fellow craft coffee shops in Houston when it comes to roasting artisanal beans in small batches. Definitely try the Mayan mocha, milk and honey latte, and fried egg tacos.

Antidote Coffee

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Hidden in plain sight in the Heights, Antidote features pastries, beer, wine, coffee, and free Wi-Fi — replete with an unassuming environment with plenty of seating inside and outdoors. Peruse its menu, which focuses on drip coffees and fancy brews, including the coveted cajeta latte which is made with goat’s milk caramel and the namesake drink, the Antidote — a brewed coffee with a shot of espresso.

La La Land

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If looking for a caffeinated pick-me-up, stop into this bright coffee shop. which hails from L.A. The friendly staff will shower you with hellos and compliments, and then spoil you with one of its colorful coffees, including the frothy La La latte, its two-tone lavender bloom matcha latte, and so much more. Be sure to try one of its breakfast toasts. For sweet, go for the toast smothered in Nutella and topped with berries. For savory with a hint of spice, order the queen toast, which is topped with mashed avocado, cream cheese, everything seasoning, chili flakes, and lemon.

La La Land Kind Cafe’s Purple Rain Matcha iced drink, with a coffee sleeve with the message “just love each other.”
La La Land Kind Cafe puts the emphasis on kindness and good coffee.
La La Land Kind Cafe

The Coffee House at West End

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Looking for a change of scenery or a working space with a view? This beautiful, bustling coffee shop, which is housed in a former church, offers three floors of seating to choose from plus a charming rooftop. The drink offerings also won’t disappoint, with traditional espresso options, drip coffee, teas, and specialty coffee and tea combos.

Bayou Heights Bier Garten

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This Heights hangout features a beer garden, cocktail bar, and coffee bar in one. Decide on the atmosphere for whichever you want to sip — whether it be on the cozy patio that’s equipped with TVs, firepits, and swing seats, or in the quaint and quiet coffee shop that serves up a variety of classic coffee drinks.

Catalina Coffee

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This cozy spot is a popular destination for laptop warriors, so getting there early to snag a seat is a must. Once settled in, enjoy a raisin roll or rosemary scone and sip a perfectly decorated latte. Need an after-work pick-me-up? Catalina is open daily until 7 p.m.

White Tile Cafe

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There are few things that are better than coffee and tacos in the morning and Jonathan Elkins, a veteran Houston coffee professional, formerly of Blue Tile Coffee, has opened a new coffee shop located inside Heights taqueria, Tio Trompo. Grab a craft pour-over coffee or espresso, made with local roaster Amaya coffee, to go along with solid breakfast tacos or al pastor tacos straight from the trompo.

Fifth Vessel Coffee

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Located next to the University of Houston Downtown campus, this vibrant coffee shop offers students a respite from the hustle and bustle. The bright exterior, large windows, and airy interior makes it an inviting spot to settle in with a laptop or a book. Order one of the house special coffees, such as the Texas Blossom, a cardamon and honey latte or the Bonito, a vanilla, cinnamon, and sweet milk latte.

Campesino Coffee House #2

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Montrose favorite Campesino Coffee branched out to Downtown Houston, bringing along its signature Latin-centric specialty drinks, such as the cafe de olla, coffee with cinnamon and piloncillo (a Mexican form of raw cane sugar); the Maya Mocha Latte, with cayenne, cinnamon, and paprika; and the customer favorite horchata iced latte. You can also pick up a Salvadoran tamale or pastry and enjoy the colorful outdoor patio.

OSO Coffee Co.

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Named after owner Hector Garcia’s mother Yolanda, who’s nickname was Oso or Mama Bear, this charming bungalow indeed exudes the warmth of a family home. The specialty Mexican influenced drinks such as the homemade horchata latte pairs well with the selection of Mexican sweetbreads and breakfast specials like the fajita torta.

Brass Tacks

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This EaDo cafe with a sprawling outdoor oasis reels the crowds in for coffee by day and for cocktails by night. Its all-day menu of $3 breakfast tacos, loaded salads, Cubans and banh mi sandwiches, plus sweet and savory crepes, pairs well with either vice. 

XELA Coffee Roasters

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Evolved from a roaster, this straight-forward, funky Second Ward coffee shop stays on the grind, offering warm and iced beverages, plus bottled cold teas and coffee mixes through its walk-up window. When the weather is nice, stay a while — savor a cortado in its outdoor seating area.

Eden Plant Co.

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This cafe and plant nursery is one of Houston’s most unique coffee spots. It offers a serene space to study, relax, or just be amongst greenery. There are couches, booths, and seating nestled in every corner and outside to enjoy a cold brew, espresso, macchiato, or cortado. Special events are also held in the oasis like space such as live music and curated dinners.

Blacksmith

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This Montrose cult-favorite churns out some seriously perfect roasts from Greenway Coffee’s David Buehrer and his merry band of skilled baristas. Sit down with a creamy flat white while nibbling (or in this case, gobbling down) a plate of Vietnamese steak and eggs, plus warm, flaky biscuits.

Segundo Coffee Lab

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Open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays (and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends), this East End shop boasts great coffee and comfortable seating in a warehouse-like setting, making it a perfect place for working or unwinding. Try its variety of specialty coffees, including its monthly featured drinks. Need a brain break? Grab your drink to-go and browse the nearby shops.

Citizens Of Montrose

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The stylish new Australian-style cafe in Montrose shines as a coffee shop, with fan favorites including its Flat White, the earthy Wellness Velvet latte made with beetroot powder, and 99-cent espresso martinis available on weekdays from 3 to 6 p.m.

Four lattes sit in cups with spoons at Citizens of Montrose.
Citizens of Montrose’s offers a variety of lattes, including caffeine-free options infused with spices.
Becca Wright

Bobby Huegel and Steve Flippo brought coffee back to this little corner on Westheimer. Formerly, Penny Quarter, Refuge stays local with craft coffee from roaster Tenfold and pastries from Love Croissants. Looking for a little more buzz with your caffeine? The cocktail menu features coffee-based drinks such as the Irish coffee, espresso martini, and carajillo.

This beloved Montrose coffee house is open daily until 2 a.m. and offers a cozy European atmosphere, complete with wine, beer, and Greek snacks. There are plenty of corners in its two levels to get comfortable in while enjoying the old-world ambiance and the excellent coffee and a nice booze selection.

Un Caffe

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Aiming to be the new “Cheers” of coffee shops, this come-as-you-are coffee spot is perfect to meet a new face, finish some work, or grab a serious cup of coffee. The owner Soonkack Kook is a coffee connoisseur and roaster who imports beans from around the world and roasts them in-house. The iced citrus Americano latte, inspired by his trip to the Korean island of Jeju-si, has become a recognizable signature not only for its citrus slush but also for the frozen bear made of coffee that sits on top, making sure the drink stays cold but not diluted.

Retrospect Coffee Bar

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Grab a seat in the wild at this Third Ward coffee shop, which only has outdoor seating. A huge patio and covered backyard surround the teensy shop, which was built in the 1920s as one of the first gas stations in the neighborhood. Order an espresso and vegan pastry and enjoy the good weather while it lasts.

Rado MKT

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The hybrid all-day cafe and neighborhood market by team behind Lucille’s is in a historic location in the Third Ward. Rado market provides prepared foods, fresh groceries, locally sourced products, and a bistro-inspired menu in the Emancipation corridor. Coffee options include drip, espresso, Americano, cappuccino, and latte. Flavors such as caramel, mocha, vanilla, honey, or lavender can be added to all the drinks.

Badolina Bakery & Cafe

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This charming Rice Village bakery can spruce up any average coffee experience thanks to its variety of pastries, breads, cakes, and baked goods infused with flavors from around the world. Accompany a croissant or a shakshuka pastry with an espresso drink like a latte or cortado, or opt for the Granita Shake, a 16-ounce frozen coffee perfect when in need of a cool down.

A person pours steamed milk into a mug of coffee, creating a latte.
Badolina Bakery offers more than just coffee.
Kirsten Gilliam

Sunday Press

This Garden Oaks gem has a drive-thru for easy to-go orders, but it’s essential to take a step inside to experience the aesthetically-pleasing space, where cushion-lined banquettes and plush furniture pepper the room. Go for the coffee and beverages, and stay for mouthwatering eats like the Japanese egg salad sandwich, PB&J overnight oats or the viral croissant swirl in five different flavors.

Sunday Press’s coffee bar and dining area.
Sunday Press’s food and drinks options are just as pretty as its cafe.
Sunday Press

Tenfold Coffee Company

The roastery isn’t just for show at Tenfold Coffee — this bar roasts its own brew and offers a fine atmosphere in which to enjoy it. The industrial-style space is softened with the addition of tall, leafy plants. Likewise, floor-to-ceiling windows that illuminate the interior with the morning light, make it a hot spot for the work-from-home crowd.

A person works on a machine that roasts beans at Tenfold Coffee Company in the Heights.
Experience freshly roasted coffee and unique blends at Tenfold.
Eric Walley

Simply Coffie

Explore the many coffee countries at this specialty coffee house in the Heights, which roasts and brews blends from countries that include Ethiopia, Colombia, Costa Rica, and most recently an award-winning batch from Panama. Coffee purists can delight in their decision to not use artificial sweeteners or sugar (you won’t find them anywhere in-store), and those interested in extra flavor can delight in its seasonal options, such as the fall-themed Pumpkin Patch or the Kiano, a coffee drink made with real kiwi.

Roast & Brew

Though expresso-based beverages and breakfast fare like buildable omelets and bagels are a surefire staple here, European influence reigns over the food and drink menu at this Heights cafe. Greek frappes are served alongside falafel and hummus, gyro sandwiches, meatballs with tzatziki, and glass cases stocked with spanakopita. Beyond the morning fare, there’s a daily happy hour from 2 to 5 p.m., with $2 off wines by the glass and 20 percent off bottles on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 

Boomtown Coffee

This quintessential Heights coffee shop is the archetype for fellow craft coffee shops in Houston when it comes to roasting artisanal beans in small batches. Definitely try the Mayan mocha, milk and honey latte, and fried egg tacos.

Antidote Coffee

Hidden in plain sight in the Heights, Antidote features pastries, beer, wine, coffee, and free Wi-Fi — replete with an unassuming environment with plenty of seating inside and outdoors. Peruse its menu, which focuses on drip coffees and fancy brews, including the coveted cajeta latte which is made with goat’s milk caramel and the namesake drink, the Antidote — a brewed coffee with a shot of espresso.

La La Land

If looking for a caffeinated pick-me-up, stop into this bright coffee shop. which hails from L.A. The friendly staff will shower you with hellos and compliments, and then spoil you with one of its colorful coffees, including the frothy La La latte, its two-tone lavender bloom matcha latte, and so much more. Be sure to try one of its breakfast toasts. For sweet, go for the toast smothered in Nutella and topped with berries. For savory with a hint of spice, order the queen toast, which is topped with mashed avocado, cream cheese, everything seasoning, chili flakes, and lemon.

La La Land Kind Cafe’s Purple Rain Matcha iced drink, with a coffee sleeve with the message “just love each other.”
La La Land Kind Cafe puts the emphasis on kindness and good coffee.
La La Land Kind Cafe

The Coffee House at West End

Looking for a change of scenery or a working space with a view? This beautiful, bustling coffee shop, which is housed in a former church, offers three floors of seating to choose from plus a charming rooftop. The drink offerings also won’t disappoint, with traditional espresso options, drip coffee, teas, and specialty coffee and tea combos.

Bayou Heights Bier Garten

This Heights hangout features a beer garden, cocktail bar, and coffee bar in one. Decide on the atmosphere for whichever you want to sip — whether it be on the cozy patio that’s equipped with TVs, firepits, and swing seats, or in the quaint and quiet coffee shop that serves up a variety of classic coffee drinks.

Catalina Coffee

This cozy spot is a popular destination for laptop warriors, so getting there early to snag a seat is a must. Once settled in, enjoy a raisin roll or rosemary scone and sip a perfectly decorated latte. Need an after-work pick-me-up? Catalina is open daily until 7 p.m.

White Tile Cafe

There are few things that are better than coffee and tacos in the morning and Jonathan Elkins, a veteran Houston coffee professional, formerly of Blue Tile Coffee, has opened a new coffee shop located inside Heights taqueria, Tio Trompo. Grab a craft pour-over coffee or espresso, made with local roaster Amaya coffee, to go along with solid breakfast tacos or al pastor tacos straight from the trompo.

Fifth Vessel Coffee

Located next to the University of Houston Downtown campus, this vibrant coffee shop offers students a respite from the hustle and bustle. The bright exterior, large windows, and airy interior makes it an inviting spot to settle in with a laptop or a book. Order one of the house special coffees, such as the Texas Blossom, a cardamon and honey latte or the Bonito, a vanilla, cinnamon, and sweet milk latte.

Campesino Coffee House #2

Montrose favorite Campesino Coffee branched out to Downtown Houston, bringing along its signature Latin-centric specialty drinks, such as the cafe de olla, coffee with cinnamon and piloncillo (a Mexican form of raw cane sugar); the Maya Mocha Latte, with cayenne, cinnamon, and paprika; and the customer favorite horchata iced latte. You can also pick up a Salvadoran tamale or pastry and enjoy the colorful outdoor patio.

OSO Coffee Co.

Named after owner Hector Garcia’s mother Yolanda, who’s nickname was Oso or Mama Bear, this charming bungalow indeed exudes the warmth of a family home. The specialty Mexican influenced drinks such as the homemade horchata latte pairs well with the selection of Mexican sweetbreads and breakfast specials like the fajita torta.

Brass Tacks

This EaDo cafe with a sprawling outdoor oasis reels the crowds in for coffee by day and for cocktails by night. Its all-day menu of $3 breakfast tacos, loaded salads, Cubans and banh mi sandwiches, plus sweet and savory crepes, pairs well with either vice. 

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XELA Coffee Roasters

Evolved from a roaster, this straight-forward, funky Second Ward coffee shop stays on the grind, offering warm and iced beverages, plus bottled cold teas and coffee mixes through its walk-up window. When the weather is nice, stay a while — savor a cortado in its outdoor seating area.

Eden Plant Co.

This cafe and plant nursery is one of Houston’s most unique coffee spots. It offers a serene space to study, relax, or just be amongst greenery. There are couches, booths, and seating nestled in every corner and outside to enjoy a cold brew, espresso, macchiato, or cortado. Special events are also held in the oasis like space such as live music and curated dinners.

Blacksmith

This Montrose cult-favorite churns out some seriously perfect roasts from Greenway Coffee’s David Buehrer and his merry band of skilled baristas. Sit down with a creamy flat white while nibbling (or in this case, gobbling down) a plate of Vietnamese steak and eggs, plus warm, flaky biscuits.

Segundo Coffee Lab

Open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays (and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends), this East End shop boasts great coffee and comfortable seating in a warehouse-like setting, making it a perfect place for working or unwinding. Try its variety of specialty coffees, including its monthly featured drinks. Need a brain break? Grab your drink to-go and browse the nearby shops.

Citizens Of Montrose

The stylish new Australian-style cafe in Montrose shines as a coffee shop, with fan favorites including its Flat White, the earthy Wellness Velvet latte made with beetroot powder, and 99-cent espresso martinis available on weekdays from 3 to 6 p.m.

Four lattes sit in cups with spoons at Citizens of Montrose.
Citizens of Montrose’s offers a variety of lattes, including caffeine-free options infused with spices.
Becca Wright

Refuge

Bobby Huegel and Steve Flippo brought coffee back to this little corner on Westheimer. Formerly, Penny Quarter, Refuge stays local with craft coffee from roaster Tenfold and pastries from Love Croissants. Looking for a little more buzz with your caffeine? The cocktail menu features coffee-based drinks such as the Irish coffee, espresso martini, and carajillo.

Agora

This beloved Montrose coffee house is open daily until 2 a.m. and offers a cozy European atmosphere, complete with wine, beer, and Greek snacks. There are plenty of corners in its two levels to get comfortable in while enjoying the old-world ambiance and the excellent coffee and a nice booze selection.

Un Caffe

Aiming to be the new “Cheers” of coffee shops, this come-as-you-are coffee spot is perfect to meet a new face, finish some work, or grab a serious cup of coffee. The owner Soonkack Kook is a coffee connoisseur and roaster who imports beans from around the world and roasts them in-house. The iced citrus Americano latte, inspired by his trip to the Korean island of Jeju-si, has become a recognizable signature not only for its citrus slush but also for the frozen bear made of coffee that sits on top, making sure the drink stays cold but not diluted.

Retrospect Coffee Bar

Grab a seat in the wild at this Third Ward coffee shop, which only has outdoor seating. A huge patio and covered backyard surround the teensy shop, which was built in the 1920s as one of the first gas stations in the neighborhood. Order an espresso and vegan pastry and enjoy the good weather while it lasts.

Rado MKT

The hybrid all-day cafe and neighborhood market by team behind Lucille’s is in a historic location in the Third Ward. Rado market provides prepared foods, fresh groceries, locally sourced products, and a bistro-inspired menu in the Emancipation corridor. Coffee options include drip, espresso, Americano, cappuccino, and latte. Flavors such as caramel, mocha, vanilla, honey, or lavender can be added to all the drinks.

Badolina Bakery & Cafe

This charming Rice Village bakery can spruce up any average coffee experience thanks to its variety of pastries, breads, cakes, and baked goods infused with flavors from around the world. Accompany a croissant or a shakshuka pastry with an espresso drink like a latte or cortado, or opt for the Granita Shake, a 16-ounce frozen coffee perfect when in need of a cool down.

A person pours steamed milk into a mug of coffee, creating a latte.
Badolina Bakery offers more than just coffee.
Kirsten Gilliam

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