Birmingham, Alabama is a city with a growing coffee culture. Coffee lovers can find many great spots to enjoy their favorite brew.
From cozy cafes to trendy espresso bars, there’s something for everyone.
You’ll find a mix of local roasters and national chains in Birmingham’s coffee scene. Each shop has its own vibe and specialty drinks.
Whether you want a quick caffeine fix or a place to relax with friends, Birmingham’s coffee shops have you covered.
1. Seeds Coffee Co. – Homewood
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Seeds Coffee Co. in Homewood. This charming spot serves up some of the best coffee in Birmingham.
Their most popular brew works great as espresso or drip coffee. You can grab a cup to enjoy there or take home a bag of beans to brew yourself.
Seeds offers their coffee in 12oz or 2lb bags. This lets you stock up on your favorite blend or try something new each visit.
The friendly staff and tasty drinks make Seeds a local favorite. Stop by to see why so many Birmingham coffee lovers keep coming back.
Rating: 4.8 (644 reviews)
Location: 174 Oxmoor Rd, Birmingham, AL 35209
Contact: (205) 259-6405
Website: Visit Website
2. June Coffee
You’ll love the warm and inviting atmosphere at June Coffee in Birmingham. This cozy spot serves up delicious coffee drinks that will satisfy your caffeine cravings.
The skilled baristas take pride in crafting each cup to perfection. Whether you prefer a classic latte or want to try something new, June Coffee has options for every taste.
The shop’s sleek and modern design creates a great space to relax or get some work done. You can enjoy your coffee at one of the comfortable tables or take it to go if you’re in a hurry.
June Coffee uses high-quality beans and expert brewing methods to bring out the best flavors in every cup. You’ll taste the difference in their carefully prepared drinks.
Rating: 4.8 (263 reviews)
Location: 213 25th St N Suite C, Birmingham, AL 35203
Website: Visit Website
3. Punch Love Coffee
You’ll find Punch Love Coffee nestled in the heart of Birmingham. This cozy spot serves up delicious brews that pack a flavorful punch. The warm atmosphere will make you feel right at home as soon as you step inside.
The baristas at Punch Love Coffee take pride in their craft. They use high-quality beans and precise brewing methods to create each cup. You can taste the care and attention that goes into every sip.
If you’re hungry, Punch Love Coffee has you covered. They offer a selection of tasty pastries and light bites to pair with your coffee. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.
Don’t forget to check out their seasonal specials. Punch Love Coffee likes to mix things up with unique flavors and creative concoctions throughout the year. You might discover a new favorite drink!
Rating: 4.7 (157 reviews)
Location: 4000 3rd Ave S #103, Birmingham, AL 35222
Website: Visit Website
4. FILTER-Coffee Parlor
FILTER-Coffee Parlor is a cozy spot tucked away in Birmingham’s Southside neighborhood. You’ll love the warm and inviting atmosphere as soon as you step inside. The shop’s modern decor and comfortable seating make it perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
The coffee at FILTER is top-notch. They source their beans from quality roasters and take great care in preparing each drink. You can taste the difference in every sip of their expertly crafted lattes, cappuccinos, and pour-overs.
Don’t miss out on their tasty food options. FILTER offers a selection of fresh pastries and light bites that pair perfectly with your coffee. Their avocado toast is a local favorite and makes for a great breakfast or lunch.
The friendly staff at FILTER will make you feel right at home. They’re always happy to chat about coffee and help you find the perfect drink to suit your taste. Whether you’re a coffee expert or just looking for a good cup, you’ll find something to love at FILTER-Coffee Parlor.
Rating: 4.7 (333 reviews)
Location: 1927 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205
Contact: (205) 202-6422
Website: Visit Website
5. The Red Cat Coffeehouse @ Pepper Place
The Red Cat Coffeehouse is a welcoming spot for coffee lovers of all kinds. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
Their coffee is roasted fresh in-house daily, ensuring you get a top-notch cup every time. The menu offers something for everyone, from specialty brews to more traditional options.
Beyond coffee, you can enjoy tasty breakfast items, lunch options, and house-made baked goods. They also cater to different dietary needs with vegan and vegetarian choices.
If you’re planning an event, The Red Cat’s Pepper Place location can be rented out. The industrial chic space is great for birthday parties, wedding receptions, and other gatherings.
Rating: 4.7 (651 reviews)
Location: 2901 2nd Ave S #120, Birmingham, AL 35233
Contact: (205) 616-8450
Website: Visit Website
6. Bitty & Beau’s Coffee
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee is more than just a place to grab your morning brew. It’s a human rights movement disguised as a coffee shop. When you step inside, you’ll experience a unique atmosphere that changes how you see others.
This coffee shop employs people with disabilities, giving them opportunities to shine. You’ll be greeted by friendly faces and served with genuine warmth. It’s a place where everyone feels welcome and valued.
The coffee at Bitty & Beau’s is top-notch too. They roast their own beans in an eco-friendly facility. You can taste the quality in every sip. The shop also sells merch, so you can show your support for their mission.
Planning a group visit? Bitty & Beau’s welcomes classes, teams, and clubs. It’s a great way to see firsthand the impact of their inclusive approach. You’ll leave with a full cup and a full heart.
Rating: 4.9 (136 reviews)
Location: 1625 Oxmoor Rd, Homewood, AL 35209
Contact: (205) 238-5764
Website: Visit Website
7. Cala Coffee Cahaba Heights
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Cala Coffee in Cahaba Heights. This charming spot offers a warm welcome and a perfect place to relax or catch up with friends.
Cala Coffee takes pride in serving top-notch brews. Their skilled baristas craft each cup with care, using high-quality beans. You can taste the difference in every sip.
The menu features a variety of coffee drinks to suit your taste. From classic espressos to fancy lattes, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to try their tasty pastries and snacks too.
Cala Coffee is more than just a coffee shop. It’s a community hub where locals gather and visitors feel at home. The friendly staff and inviting space make it a great spot to work, study, or just unwind.
Rating: 4.8 (219 reviews)
Location: 3950 Autumn Ln, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243
Contact: (866) 345-0726
Website: Visit Website
8. Frothy Monkey
Frothy Monkey is a delightful coffee shop in Birmingham that you’ll love. It’s part of a small chain with locations in Tennessee and Alabama, bringing a taste of Nashville to the Magic City.
You’ll find more than just great coffee here. Frothy Monkey roasts their own beans in Nashville, ensuring fresh and flavorful brews. Try their signature blends like 12South, Brunch, or Brute for a real treat.
Hungry? Frothy Monkey has you covered. Their bakery offers tasty treats like rustic breads and pastries. You can even order custom cakes for special occasions.
The atmosphere is perfect for hanging out or getting work done. With its friendly vibe and great menu, Frothy Monkey is a top spot for coffee lovers in Birmingham.
Rating: 4.4 (407 reviews)
Location: 2320 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Contact: (205) 974-3600
Website: Visit Website## 9. Prevail Union | BHM
Prevail Union | BHM is a coffee lover’s paradise in Birmingham. You’ll find this cozy spot nestled on 20th Street North, ready to satisfy your caffeine cravings.
The cafe offers a unique membership program that’s worth checking out. As a dues-paying union member, you can enjoy unlimited drip coffee, cold brew, and teas. Plus, you’ll get half off all espresso drinks.
Their menu features a variety of classic espresso drinks. You can sip on espressos, americanos, macchiatos, cortados, cappuccinos, and lattes. They also serve up flavored lattes and seasonal specialties to keep things interesting.
Prevail Union | BHM is more than just a coffee shop. It’s a place where you can relax, work, or catch up with friends while enjoying quality beverages.
Rating: 5 (42 reviews)
Location: 420 20th St N Suite 125, Birmingham, AL 35203
Contact: (205) 649-0947
Website: Visit Website
10. Cala Coffee Downtown
Cala Coffee Downtown is a hidden gem in Birmingham’s coffee scene. You’ll find this cozy spot nestled in the heart of the city, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The baristas here are skilled craftsmen, creating delicious coffee drinks that will satisfy your cravings. From smooth lattes to rich espressos, each cup is made with care and attention to detail.
Cala Coffee Downtown also serves up tasty treats to pair with your drink. You can enjoy freshly baked pastries and light snacks that complement the coffee perfectly.
The shop’s modern yet comfortable interior makes it an ideal place to work, study, or catch up with friends. You’ll appreciate the friendly service and relaxed vibe that keeps customers coming back.
Rating: 5 (64 reviews)
Location: 1826 3rd Ave N #101, Birmingham, AL 35203
Contact: (833) 217-5524
Website: Visit Website
Birmingham’s Coffee Culture
Birmingham’s coffee scene has grown into a vibrant community. Local shops offer unique blends and experiences that reflect the city’s character. You’ll find a mix of historic cafes and trendy new spots.
History and Evolution
Coffee has been part of Birmingham’s fabric for decades. In the past, you’d find basic diners serving simple cups of joe. But things have changed a lot since then.
The 1990s saw the first specialty coffee shops open their doors. These places brought in high-quality beans and fancy brewing methods. They taught people about different roasts and flavors.
As time went on, more local roasters popped up. They started creating custom blends just for Birmingham. This helped make the city’s coffee culture unique.
Local Coffee Trends
Birmingham’s coffee lovers are always looking for the next big thing. Right now, you’ll see a lot of cold brew on menus. It’s perfect for those hot Alabama summers.
Another trend is the focus on where beans come from. Many shops work directly with farmers to get the best coffee. They often share stories about these partnerships with customers.
You’ll also notice more places offering plant-based milk options. Oat milk lattes have become a favorite for many. Some shops even make their own nut milks in-house.
Lastly, coffee art is big here. Baristas create beautiful designs in your latte foam. It’s not just about taste anymore – it’s a full experience for all your senses.
Environmental Impact of Coffee Shops
Coffee shops can make big changes to help the planet. They can use less waste and work with local groups to create a greener community.
Sustainable Practices
Many coffee shops in Birmingham are going green. They use cups and straws made from plants that break down easily. Some shops give you a discount if you bring your own mug. This cuts down on waste.
Smart coffee makers save power. LED lights use less energy too. Some shops have solar panels on their roofs to make clean power.
Coffee grounds don’t have to go in the trash. Shops can give them to gardens as compost. This helps plants grow without chemicals.
Community Initiatives
Coffee shops team up with local groups to help the earth. They host events to teach people about saving energy and water at home. Some shops work with schools to plant trees around town.
You might see recycling bins in coffee shops. This makes it easy for you to toss cans and bottles the right way. Shops often buy from local farms too. This means less gas is used to move food around.
Some shops give part of what they earn to green causes. You can feel good knowing your coffee helps the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Birmingham has many great coffee shops to explore. Let’s look at some common questions about the best spots for coffee lovers in the city.
What are some coffee shops in Birmingham, AL with the best views?
The Red Cat Coffeehouse at Pepper Place offers nice views of the surrounding market area. You can sip your coffee while watching the hustle and bustle outside. Seeds Coffee Co. in Homewood also has large windows perfect for people-watching.
Where are the top coffee shops located in downtown Birmingham, AL?
FILTER-Coffee Parlor is right in the heart of downtown Birmingham. It’s a cozy spot to grab a cup while exploring the city center. Punch Love Coffee is another great downtown option, located in the Railway Square area.
What are the most recommended coffee shops in Birmingham, AL according to local reviews?
June Coffee gets lots of praise from Birmingham locals. Seeds Coffee Co. is another favorite, with many regulars raving about their drinks and atmosphere. The Red Cat Coffeehouse also comes up often in local recommendations.
Which coffee shop in Birmingham, AL is known for having the best ambiance?
FILTER-Coffee Parlor has a warm, welcoming vibe that many find perfect for relaxing. The Red Cat Coffeehouse offers a funky, artsy atmosphere. Seeds Coffee Co. creates a cozy feel with its rustic decor and friendly staff.
Are there any unique local coffee blends I should try while visiting Birmingham, AL?
June Coffee roasts their own beans, so you can try blends unique to Birmingham there. Seeds Coffee Co. also has some house-roasted options worth tasting. Ask the baristas at any local shop about seasonal or signature drinks to try something special.
Can you suggest coffee shops in Birmingham, AL that are good for working or studying?
FILTER-Coffee Parlor has ample seating and a quiet atmosphere good for getting work done.
Seeds Coffee Co. offers free WiFi and plenty of tables, making it popular with students.
Punch Love Coffee also provides a nice space for focusing on tasks or studying.