Philadelphia is a city with a rich history and a diverse culture, and its cafe scene is no exception.
Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a cozy spot to grab a quick bite, Philadelphia has plenty of cafes to choose from.
From trendy, modern spaces to classic, old-school joints, there's something for everyone in the city's cafe scene.
Many of these cafes have a unique atmosphere that reflects the character of the neighborhood they're in, making each visit a new experience.
In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the best cafes in Philadelphia, highlighting the standout features of each one.
Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to work, a place to catch up with friends, or just a great cup of coffee, we've got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let's explore the best cafes that Philadelphia has to offer.
1. Bold Coffee Bar
Bold Coffee Bar is a must-visit coffee shop for anyone looking for great coffee and a cozy atmosphere. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the coffee is top-notch.
They have a variety of unique drinks that are definitely worth trying, and the pastries are fresh and delicious.
The space is small, but they have outdoor seating available for those who want to enjoy their coffee outside.
If you're looking for a new coffee spot, Bold Coffee Bar is definitely worth checking out.
2. Herman's Coffee
Herman's Coffee is a hip cafe that used to be an auto repair shop.
They serve delicious coffee and espresso cocktails along with pastries. The staff is friendly and they have treats and water for dogs.
The outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying your coffee on a nice day.
The market inside the cafe has a fun selection of niche flavor items to check out. Herman's Coffee is a great spot to visit if you're in the area.
3. Red Hook Coffee and Tea
Red Hook Coffee and Tea is a cozy cafe with an eclectic and comfortable atmosphere. The staff is friendly and the coffee is some of the best in the city.
They offer an extensive menu of coffee drinks, smoothies, sandwiches, baked goods, salads, melts, wraps, and eggs.
The food is made with fresh ingredients and is surprisingly well done for a coffee focused spot. The cafe is a great place to hang out for an hour and get some work done or catch up with a friend.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a good cup of coffee and some delicious food in a low-key setting.
4. Ray's Cafe & Tea House
Ray's Cafe & Tea House is a cozy and authentic Taiwanese cafe located in the heart of Philadelphia Chinatown. The cafe offers a great selection of coffee and tea, with siphon-style coffee being their specialty.
The food menu is also impressive, with homemade dumplings and beef noodle soup being the standout dishes.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about their products, and the ambiance is warm and inviting.
If you're looking for a unique and authentic cafe experience, Ray's Cafe & Tea House is definitely worth a visit.
5. Caphe Roasters
Caphe Roasters is a hidden gem of a cafe that serves up some of the best Vietnamese coffee in town.
The cozy space is perfect for getting work done or catching up with friends over a cup of their signature coffee paired with condensed milk.
The food menu is small but mighty, with standout items like the XO egg sandwich and the pork chop banh mi.
The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. If you're a coffee lover, this is a must-visit spot.
6. Nook Bakery & Coffee Bar
Nook Bakery & Coffee Bar is a cozy, vintage-style cafe that offers housemade, small-batch baked goods and coffees.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the coffee is roasted to perfection. The chai latte is a must-try, and the pastries are all fresh and delicious.
The cafe also offers light bites and has become a popular study spot for locals.
With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Nook Bakery & Coffee Bar is a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee with friends.
7. Tuscany Cafe
Tuscany Cafe is a hidden gem that offers exceptional coffee and fresh food. Their espresso is smooth and full of flavor, making it the best in town.
The sandwiches, salads, and soups are always freshly made and affordable.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making this cafe a cozy spot to grab a quick bite or a cup of coffee.
If you're looking for a cafe with excellent food and coffee, Tuscany Cafe is definitely worth checking out.
8. Vineyards Cafe
Vineyards Cafe is a cozy and charming cafe that serves top-quality coffee and delicious sandwiches.
The cafe offers a variety of atypical menu items such as their crepes that come in all sorts of varieties.
The friendly staff and the relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a cup of coffee.
Downstairs seating is available for those who prefer a more secluded spot. The cafe is a perfect place to grab a quick bite or to catch up with friends over a cup of coffee.
9. Milkcrate Cafe
Milkcrate Cafe is a music-themed coffee shop that serves breakfast and light fare. The cafe is also a record store and home audio store decorated with album covers.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the owner, Adam, is welcoming and knowledgeable about music and vinyl.
They have a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, and their specials are unique and tempting. The coffee and espresso drinks are excellent, and the iced coffee is the largest in town.
The atmosphere is hip and artsy, and the vibe is great for hanging out with friends. Parking can be tough, but it's worth it for the experience.
10. Chapterhouse Cafe & Gallery
Chapterhouse Cafe & Gallery is a cozy and inviting neighborhood spot that serves up delicious coffee and fresh teas.
With a full range of flavored lattes and vegan and GF options for lunch items, there's something for everyone.
The cafe also features local artists' works, adding to the ambiance of the space.
Whether you're looking to work, study, or hang out with friends, Chapterhouse Cafe & Gallery is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.
11. Bison Coffee
Bison Coffee is a must-visit for coffee lovers. The quality of the coffee is top-notch, with a solid espresso and a unique flavor.
The staff is friendly and considerate, always willing to make healthy and flavorful recommendations.
The atmosphere inside the cafe is clean and pleasant, with an industrial decor and lots of natural light. It's a great place to get some work done, with free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating.
The menu also includes tasty pastries and sandwiches. Bison Coffee is definitely worth checking out if you're in the area.
12. Lombard Cafe
Lombard Cafe is a cozy neighborhood spot with a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere.
The cafe offers a good selection of coffee and tasty snacks, including excellent sandwich options. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making for a pleasant experience.
The cafe is a great place to sit down and ease into the morning or grab a caffeine fix before starting the day.
The interior is well-kempt and the music adds to the ambiance. Lombard Cafe is a perfect place to hang out with friends or work on a laptop in a peaceful environment.
13. Kickstand Cafe
Kickstand Cafe is a coffee shop and cafe that caters to cyclists and non-cyclists alike.
The cafe offers great coffee and delicious pastries that are perfect for a quick snack or a leisurely meal.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to hang out and relax.
The cafe is conveniently located near a trail, making it an ideal stop for those on the go. If you're a coffee lover, you should definitely check out Kickstand Cafe!
14. The Monkey & The Elephant
The Monkey & The Elephant is a unique cafe with a great mission. This non-profit organization employs former foster youth and teaches them valuable job skills.
The cafe offers a variety of coffee drinks, baked goods, and paninis.
The atmosphere is hipster and artistic, with fun murals and artwork for sale from local artists. Customers can enjoy their coffee inside or outside in the courtyard.
Although prices may be a bit high, supporting this business is worth it. The staff is friendly and the overall vibe of the cafe is inviting.
15. Rally Coffee
Rally Coffee is a hip coffee shop with a modern charm. It offers locally roasted beans for its espresso drinks, which are expertly crafted by friendly and knowledgeable baristas.
The interior has a minimalist design with Scandi-Japanese influences.
There is ample seating, including rentable tables for meetings or work. Rally Coffee also offers a variety of pastries and sweets, including vegan and gluten-free options.
It's a great spot to grab a cup of coffee and socialize or get some work done.
16. Good Karma Cafe
Good Karma Cafe is a chic and cozy cafe that serves quality food and beverages. The cafe has a great selection of tea and coffee, which are served hot or cold.
They also serve cocktails and wine for those who are looking for an alcoholic beverage. The staff are friendly and provide excellent service. The cafe is clean and well-maintained, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.
The menu is creative and offers a good variety of options. The cafe is spacious and has plenty of room to work or study.
The fireplace adds an extra touch of coziness during the winter months. Good Karma Cafe is a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a moment of peace and quiet.
17. Old City Coffee, Inc
Old City Coffee, Inc. is a small coffeehouse that roasts its own beans on-site. Despite its size, it offers a great variety of drinks and flavors, including delicious lattes with house-made syrups.
The friendly staff provides excellent customer service and is always happy to help.
The cafe is a hidden gem nestled on a quiet street, perfect for those looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy their coffee.
While seating is currently limited due to social distancing, there is a small area outside where customers can sit and relax. Old City Coffee, Inc. is a must-visit for anyone looking for great coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
