Indianapolis, the vibrant heart of Indiana, is known for its rich history, thriving cultural scene, and, of course, its love for coffee. As we step into 2023, the city’s coffee culture is more alive than ever, with an impressive array of coffee shops offering unique blends, cozy atmospheres, and a genuine love for the art of brewing. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or simply in search of the perfect place to savor your morning cup of joe, we’ve got you covered.
In this blog post, we’re embarking on a journey through the bustling streets of Indianapolis to uncover the 15 best coffee shops that are brewing up more than just coffee, they’re crafting unforgettable experiences.
Coat Check Coffee
Coat Check Coffee in the historic Museum on Mass Ave is a coffee lover’s heaven. Its unique espresso flavor helps it stand out. This wonderful drink blends espresso’s strong flavor with tonic water’s fizz and a lemon slice. Many love this espresso twist.
However, Coat Check Coffee delivers more than a unique brew. They carefully and passionately make great coffee. The helpful staff makes you feel at home in their charming historic surroundings. Whether you want a quick coffee or a long drink, this family-owned gem has you covered. They treat coffee like cocktails, making every drink special. They also serve pastries and light snacks to go with your coffee.
Quills Coffee
At Quills Coffee, coffee is art. Cappuccinos and lattes are their specialty. Their focus on quality coffee and espresso sets them apart. They source beans from throughout the world and roast them in-house to make every sip tasty.
Quills Coffee is more than a coffee shop—it’s a community for coffee lovers. Their culinary approach to coffee making makes it delicious. They value the skill and their beans’ origins in their relationships with coffee producers globally. Quills Coffee serves modified coffee shop classics. They make custom syrups for milk and other milk drinks to make your drink stand out. They share coffee love in Louisville, KY, and Indianapolis, IN.
You may buy their high-quality coffee online and take it home. Quills Coffee is a must-visit in Indianapolis because their enthusiasm for coffee shines through in every cup. If you want good coffee, cozy environments, and a passion for the craft, Quills Coffee is the place to go.
Neidhammer Coffee Co.
The Neidhammer Coffee Co. experience goes beyond coffee. As unusual as their rustic-chic ambiance, their specialty coffee drinks are famous. They have a great selection of espresso-based drinks, pour-over coffee, and relaxing teas, but no signature drink.
This is where Neidhammer shines. Their unique event area is excellent for weddings, business events, and special celebrations. It shows their passion for making memories. Neidhammer makes every cup a trip by obtaining high-quality beans and loving coffee. Ordering their coffee and products online lets you take some of their charm home.
Monon Coffee Company
Indianapolis coffee enthusiasts will appreciate Monon Coffee Company. Their expertise is making great coffee drinks, yet none are famous. Instead, they serve delicious espresso-based drinks, pour-over coffee, and calming teas.
The environment at Monon Coffee Company is warm and inviting. They have the perfect setting for inside or patio seating. Relax and recharge in this Broad Ripple spot near the Monon Trail. They stand out with their locally crafted sweets and small nibbles. These sweets match their coffee perfectly. The courteous, kind staff makes every visit enjoyable. Monon Coffee Company has served organic, fair trade, and specialty coffees since 1997. The dynamic mother-daughter duo of Denise & Leslie Dolin has owned them since 2019, and they’ve shined.
Foundry Provisions
In Indianapolis’ Herron-Morton Place area, Foundry Provisions serves great coffee. Without a signature drink, their reputation is founded on high-quality espresso-based drinks, pour-over coffee, and relieving teas. Try the iced Marsala Chai latte with oat milk, highly recommended.
The whole experience at Foundry Provisions is excellent, not just the coffee. Come inside for a pleasant, friendly setting with indoor and outdoor seats. It’s perfect for business or socializing. Their menu is what makes them special. They have grab-and-go and hand-scooped ice cream for everyone. Every visit is nice because the staff is polite and accommodating.
Bee Coffee
Bee Coffee Roasters is a coffee lover’s secret. While they don’t have a signature drink, fans love their seasonal drinks and encourage you to try something new. Bee Coffee Roasters serves great coffee, pastries, and light meals at its two convenient Downtown Indianapolis and Lafayette Road locations. Every cup is fresh since they roast their coffee locally. The friendly staff makes Bee Coffee Roasters stand out. They’re known for their wonderful hospitality, making coffee lovers happy.
Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company
Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company in Indianapolis’ Fletcher Place neighborhood is remarkable. While they don’t have a signature drink, they’re known for their handcrafted espresso-based cocktails, pour-over coffee, and soothing teas.
This coffee shop is known for its pleasant, friendly ambiance, great for indoor and outdoor dining. You may relax and enjoy your coffee with a variety of pastries and small snacks here. Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company’s price without sacrificing quality is remarkable. Their goal is to donate as much money as possible to city non-profits, which makes your coffee experience enjoyable.
Hubbard & Cravens Coffee and Tea
Hubbard & Cravens Coffee and Tea is a popular Indianapolis coffee and tea spot. While they don’t have a signature drink, they provide a wide variety of coffee and tea to suit every taste.
Hubbard & Cravens sources high-quality coffee and tea from around the world, making them stand apart. They serve coffee and tea in Broad Ripple, Carmel, and Nora, making it easy for Indianapolis customers. You’ll discover tasty pastries and small snacks to go with your coffee. Established in 1991 by Rick Hubbard and Jerry Cravens, this coffee shop has served high-quality coffee and tea. Hubbard & Cravens Coffee and Tea in Indianapolis offers great coffee, handy locations, and a nice staff. Here, you may satisfy your coffee and tea desires with brilliance.
Cafe Patachou
Indianapolis’ favorite breakfast and brunch place is Cafe Patachou. While they don’t have a signature drink, they provide drinks made with espresso and tea. Along with coffee and tea, Cafe Patachou serves omelets, waffles, and pastries for breakfast and lunch.
Their drink service is rare. They bring cans of Coke, Diet Coke, and Sprite to your table with ice for a pleasant experience instead of fountain drinks. Make yourself at home with the staff’s friendly hospitality. Martha Hoover owns Cafe Patachou, Petite Chou Bistro & Champagne Bar, Napolese Pizzeria, Public Greens, and Crispy Bird. As a neighborhood coffee shop since 1989, they have one of the city’s original espresso machines, bringing history to your visit.
Amberson Coffee
Amberson’s warm, friendly ambiance with indoor and outdoor seating makes it special. The best place to relax and drink coffee. They serve great beers and have a grocery area with artisan goods from around the country.
Their helpful staff makes every visit enjoyable. Additionally, you may get their coffee and products online to enjoy their flavors at home. Amberson Coffee may not be on every top list, but Yelp and TripAdvisor consumers praise their coffee and polite service. If you’re in Indianapolis and want a friendly ambiance, artisan items, and high-quality coffee and tea, visit Amberson Coffee. Simplicity and quality create the ultimate coffee escape.
Blue Mind Coffee
Blue Mind Coffee’s pleasant indoor and outdoor seating sets it unique. You may relax and enjoy your coffee with their delicious pastries and small snacks.
The family-owned business’s enthusiasm for coffee shines through in every cup. They strive to satisfy even the most sophisticated coffee and tea drinkers. You may order their coffee and products online to take some of their charm home. Blue Mind Coffee receives favorable reviews on Yelp and TripAdvisor for its outstanding coffee and pleasant employees.
Nine Lives Indy
Nine Lives Indy isn’t your typical coffee shop—it’s a cat lover’s paradise nestled in the Fountain Square neighborhood of Indianapolis. Here, you can sip on your favorite coffee or tea while enjoying the company of adorable, adoptable cats. While they don’t have a specific famous drink, they do offer a variety of coffee and tea options to delight your taste buds.
Its unique and enjoyable experience makes Nine Lives Indy exceptional. It offers a place to unwind with cats. This cat cafe has a unique atmosphere for cat lovers and coffee drinkers alike. Cat lounge reservations are available online to ensure a great time with the kitties.
Brickhouse Coffee Co.
Indianapolis coffee lovers gather at Brickhouse Coffee Co., a community hub. They don’t have a signature drink, but they provide a variety of coffee and tea from around the world for a unique and pleasant experience.
Brickhouse stands out for its farmer- and community-friendly approach. They prioritize farmer support and community in their coffee-roasting journey. They provide online coffee and item ordering so you can enjoy their excellent offers at home.
Tinker Coffee Co.
Tinker Coffee Co. is a locally cherished gem in Indianapolis, proudly serving up top-tier coffee experiences. While they don’t have one specific famous drink, they specialize in roasting high-quality single-origin coffees sourced from around the world, promising a delightful journey with every sip.
What sets Tinker Coffee Co. apart is not just their exceptional brews but also the educational experience they offer to visitors. They’re all about sharing their coffee knowledge and passion with the community. Tinker Coffee Co. has earned a stellar reputation on Reddit and other social media platforms, with customers applauding not only their high-quality coffee but also their friendly staff. If you’re a regular, they even provide customer order forms for standing orders, ensuring your favorite brew is always within reach.
FAQs About Coffee Shops in Indianapolis
What is the difference between espresso and regular coffee?
Espresso is a concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans. Regular coffee is brewed by steeping coarser coffee grounds in hot water. Espresso is typically served in smaller amounts and has a stronger flavor compared to regular coffee.
What is a cappuccino?
A cappuccino is an espresso-based coffee drink that consists of equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. It’s known for its creamy texture and rich coffee flavor.
How is pour-over coffee different from drip coffee?
Pour-over coffee is brewed manually by pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a controlled manner. Drip coffee is brewed using an automatic coffee maker that releases hot water over the grounds. Pour-over coffee allows for more precise control over the brewing process and can result in a different flavor profile.
What is cold brew coffee?
Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period, typically 12-24 hours. It results in a smoother, less acidic coffee concentrate that is often diluted with water or milk and served over ice.
What makes a great coffee shop?
A great coffee shop offers high-quality coffee, a welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable and friendly staff, a variety of coffee options, and often, unique menu items and a commitment to community or sustainability.
As a dedicated blogger, I share insights, tips, and knowledge on all things caffeinated and beyond. I firmly believe that a well-brewed cup of coffee or a skillfully crafted cocktail has the power to unite people and ignite engaging conversations.
