Starting the day off with the perfect cup of coffee is not a problem here in Grind City. In fact, the coffee scene is booming. Third wave coffee has landed in Memphis and we have several local roasters and independently owned coffee shops ready to wow with locally, regionally, nationally and internationally roasted beans. A pour over is the purest way to ride the third wave, but we’ve also got espressos, lattes, cold brews, flash brews, nitros, coffee sodas, and specialty coffee drinks all ready to caffeinate you...with or without oat milk.
DOWNTOWN MEMPHIS COFFEE SHOPS
We saw several coffee shops open recently, especially in downtown Memphis. Downtown has welcomed Memphis Chess Club, a full-service chess club and cafe, Boycott Coffee, and Crazy Gander Coffee Co. (all located within the same block). The world’s first Caption by Hyatt also features Talk Shop for visitors and locals alike.
On the other end of downtown, on North Main Street, is Comeback Coffee. This third wave shop is in a refurbished old building with lots of light, a huge patio, and a full kitchen. Customers are encouraged to “stay awhile” and they do! The focus is on high quality coffees and there’s a rotating cast of roasters showcased.
Dr. Bean’s Coffee and Tea Emporium was started by Albert Bean, a real doctor, and serious coffee enthusiast. Dr. Beans shop is located inside the boutique Stock & Belle. Vice & Virtue has a shop of their own in the Arrive Hotel downtown. They’re known for the bourbon barrel-aged coffee with Memphis’ own Blue Note Bourbon.
MIDTOWN COFFEE SHOPS
Bluff City Coffee, Otherlands, Java Cabana are anchor coffee shops in the eclectic Cooper-Young neighborhood. Each brings a cozy but sometimes quirky vibe. For a Parisian aesthetic, head to 17 Berkshire located in the Overton Square performing arts district. Pair your coffee with one of their layered petit four, macarons or truffles at this patisserie.
Visit City & State and explore the Broad Ave. neighborhood. Try their adventurous seasonal coffee menus. Hit the skate ramp and grab a coffee at Society Skatepark & Coffee or visit French Truck in our vertical village at Crosstown Concourse.
SOUTH AND EAST MEMPHIS COFFEE SHOPS
Belltower Coffee and Wine Bar doesn’t only keep the college students at the nearby University of Memphis caffeinated, they also double as a pottery studio offering classes and studio space for local artists. Not far from Graceland is Muggin Coffee House. If your Memphis adventures take you to the food paradise street known as Summer Ave. start your morning with a visit to Cxffeeblack and be sure to grab a bag of their Guji Mane beans.
