Coffee shops are like magical places. They’re not just about the caffeine in your drink, it’s the whole experience. It’s the comfy corners, the lovely smell of freshly roasted coffee beans, and the warm feeling of enjoying a well-made cappuccino.
In a world that can be really fast-paced, coffee shops are like our little oases of calm. They’re places where we can be creative, relax, and connect with others. And if you happen to be in Oakland, California, in 2023, you’re in for a special treat. Oakland’s coffee scene is full of new ideas, passion, and a deep love for making the perfect cup of coffee. Whether you’re someone who knows a lot about coffee or you’re just looking for a nice place to chill, we’ve explored the city to find you the 7 Best Coffee Shops in Oakland.
Blue Bottle Coffee
Blue Bottle Coffee is a special coffee place with spots in LA, SF, NYC, and Japan. They’re pretty famous for their top-notch coffee beans, which they roast in small batches. What’s cool is they’re all about ethical coffee sourcing and forming strong bonds with coffee producers who really know where their beans come from.
But here’s the star of the show at Blue Bottle Coffee: New Orleans-Style Iced Coffee. It’s a cold coffee delight made with roasted chicory, sweetened with cane sugar, and mixed with organic whole milk. They let it steep for a whopping 12 hours, which makes it super smooth and packed with flavor. They serve it over ice and add lots of milk to make it extra special.
If you’re into espresso, they’ve got you covered with lattes made using their bold and chocolatey Hayes Valley Espresso. They really know how to roast their coffee to bring out exciting flavors like pea shoots, dried bananas, and hay. When you step into a Blue Bottle Coffee shop, you’ll notice its modern and clean design. You can chill at a sunny hickory-topped counter while sipping your coffee. And guess what? They’ve got some tasty pastries and bites too, like their Liège wafel and toast.
Equator Coffees & Teas
Equator Coffees & Teas in Oakland is a wonderful spot for coffee and tea lovers. It’s owned by women and they’re all about being eco-friendly. While they don’t have one specific famous drink, what makes them stand out is their commitment to quality and sustainability. They serve up single-origin coffee, tea, and some light snacks. Even though their shop in Oakland is small, their menu is packed with rich coffee options you won’t find everywhere else.
What’s cool is they have a coffee subscription service, so you can get their amazing coffee delivered right to your door. And when you buy their Golden Hour merch, they put 5% of the sales toward a project that helps coffee farmers in Java with solar coffee dryers.
Awaken Café & Roasting
Awaken Café & Roasting in downtown Oakland is a fantastic spot where coffee meets community and creativity. While they don’t have one single famous drink, what sets them apart is the vibrant mix of coffee, art, music, and more. It’s not just a coffeehouse, it’s a place where you can enjoy java, beer, wine, pastries, and even live music, all in a space filled with cool art.
They’ve got a little bit of everything, from coffee and tea to beer and wine, and you can grab a bite to eat while you’re there, like their famous avocado toast. The vibe is hip, casual, trendy, and classy all at once. And if you’re an adventurous coffee lover, you’ve got to try their espresso tonic. It’s a fizzy and fancy drink that combines tonic water with espresso shots – a real treat for coffee fans.
Cole Coffee
Cole Coffee is a beloved local gem that’s been serving the community for years. While they don’t have one famous drink that stands out, what makes them special is their commitment to quality coffee. They offer a range of specialty coffees, with 25 different types for you to choose from. You can even customize your own drip coffee just the way you like it.
But it’s not just about the coffee, they’ve got a whole bunch of goodies. You can grab some cool drinkware, apparel, and gifts. Plus, they’re pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along. What really sets Cole Coffee apart is its dedication to high-quality food and drinks. They’ve got an impressive selection of fresh coffee beans, including blends and decaf options. And the best part? They roast those beans fresh every single day, so you’re getting the absolute best.
Modern Coffee
Modern Coffee in downtown Oakland is a trendy and modern coffee spot that’s all about quality brews. While they don’t have one single famous drink, what they’re really known for is their top-notch tea and coffee made from some seriously good beans. They even use special Clover milk from family farms in Sonoma and Marin County to make their drinks extra tasty.
You’ll find them in two spots in Oakland, one on 13th Street and the other on 19th Street. Their coffee shops have a sleek and contemporary design that’s all about clean lines and a cool vibe. But it’s not just about the coffee, it’s the people too. Their baristas are super friendly and attentive, making sure you get the perfect cup of coffee or chai.
Farley’s East
Farley’s East is a cozy coffee spot where you can enjoy a variety of coffee drinks and more. What makes this place even cooler is its community spirit. They host events like open mic nights and art shows, giving it a real neighborhood vibe. You can find them in two locations in Oakland, one on Grand Ave and the other on Broadway.
You can choose from classics like espresso, cappuccino, and latte, or opt for a good old drip coffee. They even offer tea and hot chocolate for those who aren’t coffee fans. But it’s not just about the drinks, they’ve got a menu filled with tasty breakfast sandwiches, bagels, pastries, salads, and sandwiches. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, Farley’s East provides a comfy and welcoming atmosphere. Plus, they’ve got free Wi-Fi, making it a great spot to work or study.
Timeless Coffee
Timeless Coffee in Oakland is not your typical coffee shop. They’re all about being vegan and eco-friendly. While they don’t have a single famous drink, they’ve got a whole bunch of tasty coffee options. You can have classics like espresso, cappuccino, latte, or simply drip coffee. And if you’re not into coffee, they’ve got tea and hot chocolate too.
But what makes them stand out is their vegan food. They offer yummy pastries, sandwiches, and salads that are all plant-based. You can enjoy it all in a cozy and friendly atmosphere, whether you’re inside or outside. Timeless Coffee is also big on sustainability. They use cups and utensils that are compostable, which is great for the planet. You can find them in two spots in Oakland, one on Piedmont Ave and the other on Webster St.
FAQs – Oakland Coffee Shops
Q1. What makes Oakland’s coffee scene unique compared to other cities?
Oakland’s coffee scene is unique because it combines a deep appreciation for quality coffee with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community. Many coffee shops in Oakland are known for their ethical sourcing practices and commitment to local communities.
Q2. Are these coffee shops suitable for remote work or studying?
Yes, several of the featured coffee shops offer free Wi-Fi and a welcoming atmosphere, making them great places for remote work or studying. They provide a relaxed environment where you can sip coffee while being productive.
Q3. Do any coffee shops in Oakland host events or live performances?
Yes, several coffee shops, such as Awaken Café & Roasting and Farley’s East, are known for hosting events like open mic nights, art shows, and live music performances. It’s a great way to enjoy your coffee while immersing yourself in local culture.
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.
