Looking for a great cup of coffee in Alexandria, Virginia? You’re in luck! This charming city is home to many cozy cafes and vibrant coffee shops.
From small local roasters to trendy hangouts, Alexandria has something for every coffee lover.
Alexandria’s coffee scene offers a mix of classic and modern spots to suit all tastes. You’ll find places serving up rich espressos, creamy lattes, and unique specialty drinks.
Many cafes also provide tasty food options and comfy spaces to relax or work. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, exploring Alexandria’s coffee shops is a fun way to experience the city’s culture.
1. Misha’s
You’ll find Misha’s in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. This cozy coffee shop has been a local favorite since 1991.
Misha’s takes pride in roasting their coffee beans in-house. They source beans from around the world and roast them daily by hand. This means you’ll always get a fresh, flavorful cup.
The shop has a warm, welcoming atmosphere. You can relax with your drink and watch the hustle and bustle of King Street. It’s a great spot to catch up with friends or get some work done.
Misha’s offers a variety of coffee drinks to suit your taste. From smooth lattes to bold espressos, you’re sure to find something you love. Don’t forget to try their freshly baked pastries too!
Rating: 4.5 (1500 reviews)
Location: 917 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Contact: (703) 548-4089
Website: Visit Website
2. Cortado Café Alexandria
You’ll love the inviting atmosphere at Cortado Café Alexandria. This cozy spot offers a perfect blend of great coffee and community spirit. It’s an ideal place to meet friends or enjoy some quiet time.
The café’s name comes from the Spanish word “cortado,” meaning “cut in half.” This reflects their signature drink, which is half milk and half coffee.
You’ll find a wide range of coffee options, from classic brews to creative concoctions.
Cortado Café isn’t just about coffee. You can also indulge in tasty crepes and other treats. Whether you need a quick morning pick-me-up or a relaxing afternoon break, this café has you covered.
If you need to work, there’s a special seating area for that. For those looking to unwind, comfy chairs await in the soft-seating section. You’ll feel right at home in this welcoming space.
Rating: 4.7 (352 reviews)
Location: 4543 Duke St, Alexandria, VA 22304
Contact: (571) 312-2496
Website: Visit Website
3. Grounded Coffee Shop
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Grounded Coffee Shop. This local gem serves up delicious coffee and treats in a warm, welcoming space.
The friendly staff always greets you with a smile. They’re happy to help you pick the perfect drink or suggest a tasty snack to go with your coffee.
Grounded offers a great selection of coffee drinks, from classic lattes to unique seasonal specials. You can also find yummy pastries and light bites to satisfy your hunger.
The shop has comfy seating and free Wi-Fi, making it a nice spot to work or catch up with friends. You’ll feel right at home in this charming Alexandria cafe.
Rating: 4.7 (540 reviews)
Location: 6919 Telegraph Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310
Contact: (703) 341-6612
4. Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii
You’ll love the taste of Hawaii right in Alexandria at Bad Ass Coffee. This coffee shop brings island vibes to Virginia with its Hawaiian-inspired drinks and food.
Try their signature Bad Ass Mocha or 100% Kona coffee for a real tropical treat. They also serve up tasty espresso drinks, cold brews, and handcrafted energy beverages.
Hungry? Grab a breakfast or lunch sandwich on King’s Hawaiian sweet bread. The new grilled cheese is a cheesy delight you won’t want to miss.
Order ahead with their app to skip the line and earn rewards. Don’t forget to try their seasonal specials like the Dirty Pumpkin Chai before they’re gone!
Rating: 4.4 (230 reviews)
Location: 2466 Mandeville Ln, Alexandria, VA 22314
Contact: (703) 894-0111
Website: Visit Website
5. ESP Tea & Coffee
ESP Tea & Coffee is a lively cafe in Old Town Alexandria that you’ll love. It’s the perfect spot to grab a cup of artisanal espresso or premium tea. You can also enjoy a slice of delicious Pie Shop Pie while you’re there.
The cafe has a relaxed atmosphere with smiles and music to brighten your day. You’ll notice artwork on the walls, most of which is for sale. If you’re an art lover, check out their gallery called Galactic Panther just down the street.
ESP Tea & Coffee offers three outdoor seating areas where you can sip your drink in the fresh air. There’s a large parking lot behind the cafe, making it easy to visit. You can drop by for dine-in or takeaway seven days a week.
Rating: 4.6 (847 reviews)
Location: 1012 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Contact: (571) 970-1674
Website: Visit Website
6. The Coffee Room
You’ll find a hidden gem tucked away in Alexandria’s West End. The Coffee Room offers a cozy spot to grab your favorite brew and relax. This charming cafe has quickly become a local favorite since opening.
The friendly staff welcomes you with warm smiles and expert coffee knowledge. They take pride in crafting the perfect cup just for you.
From smooth lattes to bold espressos, there’s something to satisfy every coffee lover’s taste buds.
But it’s not just about the drinks. The Coffee Room also serves up tasty pastries and light bites to go with your coffee.
The cafe’s clean and modern design creates a calm space for you to work, chat with friends, or simply unwind. With free Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets, it’s an ideal spot for remote workers or students looking for a change of scenery.
Rating: 4.9 (58 reviews)
Location: 205 S Whiting St Suite 100, Lobby, Alexandria, VA 22304
Contact: (571) 340-8075
7. Misha’s Coffee
You’ll find Misha’s Coffee in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. This charming spot has been serving up delicious brews since 1991.
What sets Misha’s apart is their commitment to quality. They roast all their coffee in-house, using beans sourced from around the world.
Misha’s takes pride in their hands-on approach. The staff roasts coffee daily right on site. This attention to detail ensures you get the best flavors in your drink.
When you visit, you’ll experience a warm atmosphere and friendly service. It’s a great place to relax or catch up with friends over a perfectly brewed coffee.
Rating: 4.5 (312 reviews)
Location: 6 Prince St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Contact: (703) 548-4089
Website: Visit Website
8. Swing’s Coffee
Swing’s Coffee is a beloved local spot in Alexandria. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for sipping your favorite brew.
The shop takes pride in its high-quality coffee and friendly service.
Their menu offers a variety of coffee drinks to suit your taste. From classic espressos to creamy lattes, there’s something for everyone. You can also grab a quick bite to eat with their selection of pastries and snacks.
Swing’s is known for its commitment to freshness. They roast their beans in small batches to ensure the best flavor. You’ll taste the difference in every cup you try.
The shop’s location on East Monroe Avenue makes it easy to stop by. It’s a great place to start your day or take a break from exploring Alexandria.
Rating: 4.6 (747 reviews)
Location: 501 E Monroe Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301
Contact: (703) 370-5050
Website: Visit Website## 9. Turkish Coffee Lady
Step into a world of rich aromas and cultural heritage at Turkish Coffee Lady. This unique coffee shop brings a 500-year-old tradition to Alexandria, offering an authentic Turkish coffee experience.
You’ll be greeted by a warm atmosphere that transports you straight to Istanbul. The shop’s founder, Gizem Salcigil White, has created a space where coffee isn’t just a drink – it’s a way to bring people together.
Try their signature Turkish coffee, brewed to perfection using time-honored methods. Pair it with delicious Turkish treats for a full sensory experience. The shop also offers coffee reading sessions, adding a touch of mystique to your visit.
Turkish Coffee Lady isn’t just about great coffee. It’s a cultural hub where you can learn about Turkish traditions, make new friends, and even attend special events that celebrate Turkish culture.
Rating: 4.7 (599 reviews)
Location: 1001 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Contact: (202) 670-4360
Website: Visit Website
10. Via Volcan Coffee
You’ll love the unique coffee experience at Via Volcan Coffee in Old Town Alexandria. This charming micro-roastery takes pride in controlling every step of the coffee-making process.
From planting and harvesting to roasting, Via Volcan ensures top-notch quality in every cup. You’ll taste the difference in their fresh, high-quality beans that are sun-dried and expertly roasted.
The shop’s commitment to excellence shines through in every sip. You’ll appreciate their attention to detail and the care they put into crafting each brew. Their approach brings you coffee that’s not just delicious, but also distinctive.
Located in the heart of Old Town, Via Volcan offers a cozy spot to enjoy your favorite coffee drinks. You’ll feel right at home in this friendly local gem.
Rating: 4.8 (113 reviews)
Location: 110 S West St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Contact: (571) 431-7372
Website: Visit Website
Coffee Culture in Alexandria
Alexandria’s coffee scene is vibrant and diverse. You’ll find a mix of historic cafes and modern roasters throughout the city.
History and Influence
Coffee has deep roots in Alexandria. The city’s port played a key role in importing coffee beans in the 18th and 19th centuries. This history shaped local tastes and traditions.
You can still visit some of Alexandria’s oldest coffee shops today. Places like Gadsby’s Tavern have been serving coffee since the 1770s.
Over time, European immigrants brought new coffee styles to the area. Italian espresso and Viennese coffee houses left their mark on local cafes.
Local Coffee Trends
Today, Alexandria embraces both classic and modern coffee trends. You’ll find plenty of options to suit your taste.
Third-wave coffee shops are popular in the city. Many focus on single-origin beans and pour-over brewing methods.
Cold brew and nitro coffee have gained fans, especially in summer. Some cafes even offer coffee cocktails and specialty lattes.
Local roasters like Misha’s Coffee have built loyal followings. They offer fresh beans and host cupping events for coffee lovers.
Farm-to-cup sourcing is another growing trend. Some Alexandria cafes partner directly with coffee farmers for more sustainable practices.
Specialty Coffees and Brews
Alexandria’s coffee shops offer a variety of unique brews and flavors. You can find expertly crafted drinks using different brewing methods and taste exciting flavor combinations.
Popular Brewing Methods
Many Alexandria cafes use pour-over and French press methods for a rich, flavorful cup. Pour-over brewing lets you control water flow for a clean taste. Meanwhile, French press steeps grounds directly in hot water for a fuller body.
Some shops like Swing’s Coffee Roasters use siphon brewers. This method creates a smooth, tea-like coffee. Cold brew is also popular, especially in summer. Shops steep grounds in cold water for 12-24 hours to make a less acidic drink.
For espresso lovers, you’ll find shops using both traditional and modern machines. La Marzocco and Slayer espresso machines are favorites among baristas for their precision.
Unique Flavors to Try
Alexandria’s coffee scene has creative drinks to excite your taste buds. Lavender lattes are a local hit, mixing floral notes with creamy espresso. Meanwhile, some shops infuse their cold brew with nitrogen for a smoother, creamier texture.
Seasonal flavors pop up often. In fall, you might find pumpkin chai or maple pecan lattes. Meanwhile, summer brings refreshing options like honey-cinnamon iced coffee.
For a twist, try a dirty chai – chai tea with a shot of espresso. Or sample a cortado, equal parts espresso and steamed milk. Some shops even offer coffee flights so you can taste different beans side-by-side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coffee lovers in Alexandria have many great options to choose from. Here are answers to some common questions about the city’s best cafes and coffee shops.
Where can I find the most popular coffee shop in Old Town Alexandria?
Misha’s is a top spot in Old Town Alexandria. You’ll find excellent house-roasted coffee and a cozy vibe. The open floor plan gives it a spacious feel while still being welcoming.
What are the top waterfront coffee spots in Alexandria, VA for a view?
ESP Tea & Coffee offers a nice view of the Potomac River. You can enjoy your drink on their outdoor patio while taking in the scenery. It’s a relaxing spot to sip coffee and watch boats go by.
Can someone recommend cozy cafes in Downtown Alexandria for studying?
Grounded Coffee Shop is great for studying. You’ll find plenty of seating and a calm atmosphere. The French country-inspired decor adds to the cozy feel, making it ideal for long study sessions.
What are the local favorite coffee houses in Alexandria, VA?
Cortado Café Alexandria is beloved by locals. You’ll get to try their unique coffee blends and tasty pastries. The friendly staff and welcoming space make it a neighborhood gem.
Where’s the best place with a great atmosphere to have coffee in Alexandria?
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii brings island vibes to Alexandria. You’ll feel like you’re on vacation with their Hawaiian-themed decor and specialty coffee drinks. It’s a fun change of pace from typical coffee shops.
Are there any unique coffee shops in Alexandria that offer live music or events?
Misha’s sometimes hosts live music and events. You can check their schedule to see what’s coming up. It’s a great way to enjoy local talent while sipping on quality coffee.