Coffee shop frequenters know the coolest places to grab a cup of Joe are about so much more than just the coffee. Sure, the coffee has to be good—really good, in fact. But to be deemed the coolest coffee shop means the ambience, the seating, the staff, and a whole lot more must draw the customers for some very distinct flavor.
The following 9 coffee shops—in no particular order—are probably the coolest you’ll find in Massachusetts. So drop by, bring your laptop or maybe even a novel. Order a latte, a cappuccino, a hot chocolate, or a plain old cup of coffee—and see what the locals love best about each and every one.
You don’t have to rush in at the crack of dawn to get coffee at the Hot Chocolate Sparrow in Orleans—but you can if you want. Open from the crack of dawn until well into the evening—even very late on weekends—you can grab a cup of coffee and a whole lot more. The hot chocolate is divine—even sinful, in fact. The desserts and ice cream will melt in your mouth. The homemade fudge and items in the gift shop are great for holiday and birthday shopping, and to take a little treat home as well.
Boston hipsters frequent Pavement, located in perfect proximity to many of the city’s colleges and universities. In addition to exceptional coffee, patrons love their Spanish latte and unique assortments of teas. What started out as a bagel bakery is now among the most popular coffee shops in the city. They’re so popular, in fact, they now boast six locations—the most recent having opened near Fenway Park. Enjoy a homemade bagel with your coffee, and start your day off with perfection.
Lest you balk, let it be known that this Dunkin' in Quincy isn’t just any Dunkin'. It’s the original donut and coffee shop in the now-countless chain. Yes, you’ll get the standard fare when visiting here, but you’ll be treated to a retro ambience that no other spot offers.
Serving only 100 percent fair trade coffee beans, Mocha Maya’s—located in Shelburne Falls—is a coffee shop by day and a pub by night. Their espresso is known as “Maya’s Gold,” and their frozen hot chocolate is perfect any time of year. A true small community coffee shop, you’ll be treated like a local when you stop by.
Located in Norwood, Perks Coffee House isn’t just for your morning java. Open in the evening and featuring live coffee house entertainment, they are deemed “the best and most recognized coffee shop in the Neponset Valley.” Breakfast and lunch are served all day, and in addition to their delicious coffee they also serve both cider and chai.
What they lack in seating, Simon’s Coffeeshop makes up for in flavor. Both their coffee and their baked treats are sublime. Known especially for their homemade macaroons, the shop is popular with students and locals. It’s well worth a stop even if there isn’t a seat available (due to its immense popularity). Grab a coffee and some macaroons to go, and savor every drop and bite.
If Mexican mocha and homemade pastries sounds like the perfect way to start your day, then a visit to the Nirvana Coffee Company in Barnstable is the place to go. Open most days from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., enjoy a bagel sandwich later on for lunch or dinner. The super cozy atmosphere features big comfy chairs. The staff will make you feel like you are neighbors.
Boasting three locations in Boston and one in Salem, Jaho Coffee & Tea features coffee that is roasted at two of their Boston locales. The rich aroma welcomes you in the door and the expansive menu of fresh brewed coffees affords a wealth of exquisite choices. The freshly brewed tea is out of this world—and don’t worry, you can take some leaves to brew at home as well. Two of the Boston stores feature wine bars, too, for when you’d like something a bit stronger than java.
Far more in tune with a European café than an American coffee shop, Pan’e Dolecetti—located in Wilbraham—features an array of baked goods that make donuts and muffins seem passé. Upscale and almost elegant, their sandwiches feature the same kind of flair.
No matter which of these 10 coolest coffee shops you choose, you’ll be treated to something special. Whether you live in Massachusetts or are just passing through, you’ve got excellent options when the need for coffee strikes.