Riverside, California has a thriving coffee scene that’s worth exploring. You’ll find a variety of coffee shops offering unique blends, cozy atmospheres, and friendly service.
From small local spots to well-known chains, there’s something for every coffee lover in this vibrant city.
Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix or a relaxing place to sip and chat, Riverside’s coffee shops have you covered.
You can enjoy freshly roasted beans, artisanal brews, and tasty treats at many locations throughout the area. Some shops even offer outdoor seating, perfect for soaking up the California sunshine while you savor your favorite drink.
1. Arcade Coffee Roasters – Tasting Room
You’ll love the fresh, expertly roasted coffee at Arcade Coffee Roasters. This tasting room in Riverside offers a unique coffee experience you won’t want to miss.
Arcade takes pride in their craft, roasting high-quality beans to bring out the best flavors.
You can try different varieties and find your new favorite brew.
The friendly staff is always happy to chat about coffee and help you choose something tasty. Whether you’re a coffee expert or just starting to explore, you’ll feel welcome here.
Don’t forget to check out their subscriptions if you want to enjoy Arcade’s coffee at home. They also offer job opportunities if you’re passionate about coffee and looking to join their team.
Rating: 4.7 (550 reviews)
Location: 3672 Chicago Ave A, Riverside, CA 92507
Contact: (951) 266-6839
Website: Visit Website
2. Lift Coffee Roasters
Lift Coffee Roasters is a gem in Riverside that will brighten your day. This cozy spot celebrates coffee and its power to connect people.
You’ll love the welcoming atmosphere that encourages interaction and appreciation of diversity. The roasters here believe in the importance of human connection through coffee.
Lift takes pride in nurturing coffee’s role in world cultures and industries. They support everyone from distant growers to local coffee shops, recognizing coffee’s ability to provide moments of joy.
Their motto “Lift Your Day” invites you to celebrate the good things in life. Stop by for a quick pick-me-up or linger to savor your brew and the positive vibes.
Rating: 4.7 (400 reviews)
Location: 2060 Chicago Ave A-10, Riverside, CA 92507
Contact: (951) 742-7413
Website: Visit Website
3. Twee Coffee
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Twee Coffee in Riverside. This charming cafe serves up delicious brews and tasty treats that will satisfy your caffeine cravings.
The friendly staff at Twee Coffee welcomes you with warm smiles. They’re always happy to help you pick the perfect drink or snack to enjoy during your visit.
Twee Coffee opens bright and early at 6:30 AM every day.
You can stop by for your morning joe or an afternoon pick-me-up. They stay open until 6 PM Thursday through Saturday for those evening coffee runs.
The cafe’s inviting space makes it ideal for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
Grab a seat, sip your coffee, and soak in the pleasant vibe at this local gem.
Rating: 4.8 (248 reviews)
Location: 9344 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92503
Contact: (951) 299-8105
Website: Visit Website
4. Back To The Grind
Back To The Grind is a cozy coffee shop in Riverside that you’ll love. It’s a local favorite, known for its warm atmosphere and great coffee.
You’ll find a wide range of drinks to suit your taste. From classic espresso to unique blends, there’s something for everyone. The baristas are skilled and friendly, always ready to help you pick the perfect drink.
The shop has a charming, laid-back vibe that makes it ideal for work or relaxation.
You can settle in with your laptop or catch up with friends over a steaming cup of joe.
Located on University Avenue, Back To The Grind is easy to find. It’s a great spot to take a break and recharge during your day in Riverside.
Rating: 4.5 (1200 reviews)
Location: 3575 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92501
Contact: (951) 784-0800
Website: Visit Website
5. Daily Brew Coffee House
You’ll find a cozy and welcoming atmosphere at Daily Brew Coffee House in Riverside. This local gem offers a fantastic selection of coffee, espresso drinks, and loose-leaf teas to satisfy your caffeine cravings.
Start your day right with their tasty breakfast options. The toast menu is a highlight, featuring delicious toppings that pair perfectly with your morning brew.
Daily Brew Coffee House takes pride in its friendly service. The staff goes above and beyond to make you feel at home and ensure you have a great experience.
Looking to join the Daily Brew team? They’re often hiring, so check out their website for job openings if you’re passionate about coffee and customer service.
Rating: 4.7 (553 reviews)
Location: 2955 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92503
Contact: (951) 352-7477
Website: Visit Website
6. Mundial Coffee
You’ll find a cozy spot to enjoy your coffee at Mundial Coffee on Spruce Street. This charming cafe serves up delicious brews in a welcoming space.
The friendly staff takes pride in crafting quality drinks. You can choose from a range of coffee options, from classic drip to specialty lattes.
Mundial Coffee is a great place to work or catch up with friends. The relaxed vibe makes it easy to settle in and enjoy your cup of joe.
Rating: 4.7 (228 reviews)
Location: 1725 Spruce St, Riverside, CA 92507
Contact: (951) 777-1225
Website: Visit Website
7. Molinos Coffee
Molinos Coffee is a cozy spot in Riverside that you’ll love. It’s right on Mission Inn Avenue, making it easy to find. The cafe has a warm and welcoming vibe that will make you feel right at home.
You can enjoy a variety of coffee drinks here. They serve both hot and cold options to suit your taste. The baristas are skilled and friendly, always ready to make your perfect cup.
Besides coffee, Molinos offers tasty food items too. You can grab a quick snack or a light meal to go with your drink. The menu has something for everyone, including some vegetarian choices.
The cafe has a nice indoor seating area where you can relax or work. There’s also outdoor seating if you prefer to sip your coffee in the fresh air. It’s a great place to meet friends or have a casual business meeting.
Rating: 4.4 (612 reviews)
Location: 3660 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
Contact: (951) 276-7147
Website: Visit Website
8. Crave Coffee & Tea
Crave Coffee & Tea is a cozy spot in Riverside that you’ll love. It’s got a warm, welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. The shop offers a wide range of coffee and tea options to suit your taste.
You’ll find both classic drinks and unique creations here. Their baristas are skilled and friendly, always ready to help you pick the perfect beverage. The coffee is fresh and flavorful, sure to give you that needed boost.
Don’t miss out on their tasty snacks and pastries. They pair perfectly with your drink of choice. The shop has a nice atmosphere for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
Crave Coffee & Tea is a great place to relax and enjoy quality drinks. You’ll appreciate the attention to detail in every cup they serve. It’s definitely worth a visit when you’re in Riverside.
Rating: 4.3 (205 reviews)
Location: 3590 Central Ave, Riverside, CA 92506
Contact: (951) 289-9436
Website: Visit Website## 9. TOASTED INC
TOASTED INC is a hidden gem in Riverside that will satisfy your coffee cravings. This cozy spot offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy your favorite brew.
The friendly staff at TOASTED INC takes pride in crafting delicious drinks that will make your taste buds dance. From classic espresso-based beverages to unique specialty concoctions, there’s something for everyone here.
Don’t forget to try their tasty food options to go with your coffee. Their menu features a variety of toasted sandwiches and other light bites that pair perfectly with your drink of choice.
TOASTED INC is a great place to catch up with friends or get some work done. The comfortable seating and welcoming vibe make it easy to spend hours here sipping on your favorite coffee.
Rating: 4.6 (162 reviews)
Location: 6160 Arlington Ave STE C9, Riverside, CA 92504
Contact: (951) 977-9847
Website: Visit Website
10. Rad Coffee
Rad Coffee brings a unique horror-themed twist to your caffeine fix. You’ll find this edgy spot on University Avenue in Riverside. The shop’s dark and spooky vibe sets it apart from typical cafes.
Their menu features creatively named drinks inspired by horror movies and characters. You can sip on a “Ghostface” latte or try their “House of 1000 Coffees” blend. The baristas craft each drink with care, ensuring a tasty experience.
Rad Coffee doesn’t stop at beverages. You can grab some cool horror-themed merch too. From stickers to pins, there’s something for every fright fan. The “Edward Portafilterhands” sticker is a fun nod to both coffee and classic horror.
If you love coffee and have a soft spot for the spooky, Rad Coffee is your go-to spot. The unique atmosphere and creative menu make for a memorable visit. Don’t forget to check out their seasonal specials for extra thrills.
Rating: 4.3 (144 reviews)
Location: 3952 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92501
Contact: (951) 534-0938
Website: Visit Website
Coffee Culture in Riverside
Riverside’s coffee scene is buzzing with unique flavors and community vibes. You’ll find a mix of traditional and modern brewing methods alongside locally-inspired drinks.
Local Preferences
You’ll notice Riverside coffee lovers enjoy a diverse range of drinks. Cold brew is popular, especially during hot summers. Many shops offer signature lattes with flavors like lavender and honey.
Local roasts are a big hit. You can often find blends featuring beans from nearby farms. Some cafes even roast their own beans on-site.
Riverside residents appreciate spaces that showcase local art and host community events. You’ll see many coffee shops doubling as galleries or performance venues.
Brewing Techniques
In Riverside, you’ll encounter both classic and cutting-edge brewing methods. Pour-over coffee is common, with baristas carefully controlling water flow for the perfect cup.
Some shops use siphon brewers, creating a theatrical experience as your coffee bubbles and brews. Espresso machines are a staple, but you might also spot cold drip towers slowly extracting smooth, low-acid coffee.
Many cafes offer workshops where you can learn these techniques. You’ll find passionate baristas eager to share their knowledge about grind size, water temperature, and extraction times.
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
Coffee shops in Riverside are taking steps to be more eco-friendly and support fair trade. These efforts help farmers and protect the environment.
Fair Trade Practices
Many Riverside cafes now use fair trade coffee beans. This means farmers get paid fairly for their work. You can feel good knowing your coffee helps support farming communities.
Some shops work directly with growers. They build relationships and ensure good working conditions. Look for signs or ask baristas about their fair trade practices.
By choosing these cafes, you vote with your wallet for ethical sourcing. Your daily cup can make a real difference in coffee-growing regions around the world.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Riverside coffee shops are going green in creative ways. You’ll see reusable cups and compostable to-go containers at many places.
Some cafes use energy-efficient equipment to save power. Others have switched to LED lights or installed solar panels.
Local roasters often use eco-friendly roasting methods. This cuts down on emissions and waste.
You can do your part too. Bring your own mug or enjoy your coffee in-house. Many shops offer discounts for customers who skip disposable cups.
By supporting these green cafes, you help reduce waste and protect the planet. It’s an easy way to make your coffee habit more earth-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coffee lovers in Riverside have many great options to choose from. Here are answers to some common questions about the local coffee scene.
What are the top-rated coffee shops in downtown Riverside?
Back To The Grind is a popular spot in downtown Riverside. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere and tasty coffee drinks there. Arcade Coffee Roasters also has a tasting room downtown that gets high marks from locals.
Where can I find a cozy coffee shop for studying in Riverside?
Daily Brew Coffee House offers a quiet environment perfect for studying. You can settle in with your books and enjoy their freshly brewed coffee. Lift Coffee Roasters also provides a nice space to focus on your work.
Which Riverside coffee shops have the best local roasts?
Arcade Coffee Roasters is known for their locally roasted beans. You can try their different blends at their tasting room. Lift Coffee Roasters also roasts their own beans in small batches for maximum freshness.
Are there any unique themed coffee shops in Riverside?
Twee Coffee stands out with its cute, Instagram-worthy decor. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale when you visit.
Back To The Grind has an artsy vibe with local artwork on display and live music events.