Elizabeth, New Jersey has a thriving coffee scene that’s worth exploring. You’ll find a variety of charming cafes and cozy spots to enjoy your favorite brew.
From artisanal roasts to creative specialty drinks, there’s something for every coffee lover in this city.
The best coffee shops in Elizabeth offer more than just great coffee – they provide welcoming atmospheres and friendly service too. You can discover local favorites and hidden gems that serve up delicious pastries, light bites, and of course, excellent coffee.
Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix or a relaxing place to spend an afternoon, Elizabeth’s coffee shops have you covered.
1. Oh lala Crepes & Coffee Shop
You’ll fall in love with Oh lala Crepes & Coffee Shop from the moment you step inside. This charming café in Elizabeth, NJ serves up delicious crepes and top-notch coffee that will make your taste buds dance.
The menu offers a wide variety of sweet and savory crepes to satisfy any craving. Try their signature Nutella and banana crepe for a heavenly treat, or go for a savory option like the ham and cheese crepe for a filling meal.
Don’t forget to pair your crepe with one of their expertly crafted coffee drinks. The baristas take pride in creating the perfect cup, whether you prefer a classic latte or something more unique like their specialty iced caramel macchiato.
The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make Oh lala the perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a quiet moment alone. You’ll feel right at home in this welcoming space that combines French charm with a touch of New Jersey hospitality.
Rating: 4.9 (144 reviews)
Location: 1179 Elizabeth Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Contact: (908) 409-8475
2. Floral Cafe
You’ll fall in love with Floral Cafe’s cozy atmosphere and amazing coffee. This charming spot on Floral Avenue is a local favorite for good reason.
Sip on expertly crafted espresso drinks or try their smooth cold brew. The baristas take pride in their work and it shows in every cup. You can pair your coffee with one of their fresh pastries or light bites.
The cafe has a welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. Grab a seat by the window to people-watch or find a quiet corner to catch up on work. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home.
Don’t miss their seasonal drink specials that change throughout the year. Whether you’re in the mood for a pumpkin spice latte or a refreshing iced tea, Floral Cafe has you covered.
Rating: 4.9 (45 reviews)
Location: 772 Floral Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Contact: (908) 242-5657
3. Ayala Coffee
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Ayala Coffee in Union, NJ. This charming spot serves up delicious coffee drinks and treats that will make your taste buds dance.
The friendly staff always greets you with a smile. They’re happy to help you pick the perfect drink from their menu of hot and cold coffee options. Don’t forget to try one of their yummy pastries too!
Ayala Coffee is a great place to meet friends or get some work done. The comfy seating and free Wi-Fi make it easy to stay for hours. You can also grab your coffee to go if you’re in a hurry.
Whether you’re a coffee expert or just looking for a nice place to relax, Ayala Coffee has something for everyone. Stop by soon and see why locals can’t get enough of this wonderful coffee shop.
Rating: 4.9 (224 reviews)
Location: 1917 Morris Ave, Union, NJ 07083
Website: Visit Website
4. Velvet Cafe
You’ll find a cozy atmosphere at Velvet Cafe on Elizabeth Avenue. This coffee shop offers a warm welcome and great drinks. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home.
Velvet Cafe serves up delicious coffee and tasty treats. You can choose from a variety of hot and cold beverages. Their menu also includes light snacks and pastries to go with your drink.
The cafe has a nice setup for working or catching up with friends. You’ll enjoy the comfy seating and relaxed vibe. It’s a perfect spot to take a break from your day.
Velvet Cafe is known for its quality service and yummy drinks. You’ll want to stop by and see why locals love this place. It’s a great addition to Elizabeth’s coffee scene.
Rating: 4.8 (61 reviews)
Location: 628 Elizabeth Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07206
Contact: (908) 422-8035
5. Colombian Coffee Shop
You’ll feel like you’re in Colombia at this charming coffee shop. It’s a great spot to enjoy authentic Tolima cuisine with your family.
The star attractions are the tamales and lechona, traditional Colombian dishes made from old family recipes. You can savor these delicacies alongside fresh corn arepas, rich hot chocolate, and warm cheese bread.
For special events, try their cojines – ready-to-eat portions of lechona perfect for parties or holiday gatherings. The shop is open daily, serving up these tasty treats and more.
Beyond the main menu, you can find other Colombian favorites like moñona, caldo de costilla, and changua. They also offer Colombian baked goods and national products to satisfy your cravings.
Rating: 4.8 (194 reviews)
Location: 505 1/2 Rahway Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Contact: (908) 446-4087
Website: Visit Website
6. Aura Coffee
Aura Coffee is a cozy spot in Linden that’s perfect for your coffee and food needs. You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. It’s a great place to work quietly or catch up with friends.
The coffee at Aura is top-notch. They roast their beans in-house, giving you the freshest cup possible. You can try their wide range of coffee options to find your new favorite drink.
Food lovers will enjoy Aura’s tasty sandwiches and pastries. Everything is made fresh with high-quality ingredients. It’s an ideal spot for lunch or brunch, with plenty of choices to satisfy your hunger.
Aura Coffee is open every day of the week. You can stop by early for your morning coffee or drop in later for an afternoon treat. The shop offers long hours to fit your schedule.
Rating: 4.9 (164 reviews)
Location: 307 W Elizabeth Ave, Linden, NJ 07036
Website: Visit Website
7. Coffee House
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Coffee House on Elizabeth Avenue. This charming spot serves up delicious coffee and treats to brighten your day.
The friendly staff will make you feel right at home as soon as you walk in. They’re always happy to chat and help you pick the perfect drink.
Grab a seat by the window and watch the world go by as you sip your latte. It’s a great place to catch up with friends or get some work done.
The pastries are fresh and tasty too. Try one of their muffins or cookies to go with your coffee for a sweet treat.
Rating: 4.2 (307 reviews)
Location: 1089 Elizabeth Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Contact: (908) 469-5950
8. Roc’s Café
Roc’s Café is more than just a place to grab your morning coffee. It’s a community hub where you can bond with others and enjoy high-quality food and drinks.
You’ll find a wide range of freshly baked goods made from scratch daily. The water bagels are made in-house, and you can choose from various sandwich options.
For brunch, you can try their tasty sandwiches, wraps, power bowls, and salads. The café offers a modern and comfy eating space where you can relax and enjoy your meal.
Roc’s Café opens early and closes late on weekdays and Saturdays. On Sundays, they have shorter hours but still give you plenty of time to drop by for a treat.
Rating: 4.6 (370 reviews)
Location: 1020 North Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Contact: (908) 354-0849
Website: Visit Website## 9. Latinos Coffee Shop
Looking for a cozy spot to grab your morning brew?
Latinos Coffee Shop in Elizabeth, NJ might be just what you need. This hidden gem offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’ll make you feel right at home.
As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The friendly staff is always ready to whip up your favorite drink, whether it’s a classic cappuccino or a specialty latte.
Don’t forget to try their delicious pastries and snacks. They’re the perfect companion to your coffee and will keep you coming back for more.
With its charming ambiance and tasty treats, Latinos Coffee Shop is a great place to catch up with friends or enjoy some quiet time alone.
Rating: 4.8 (20 reviews)
Location: 1172 E Jersey St, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Contact: (908) 327-9288
10. Jumpstart Cafe
Jumpstart Cafe is a hidden gem in Elizabeth, NJ. You’ll love the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff that greet you as soon as you walk in. The cafe’s name isn’t just for show – their coffee will definitely jumpstart your day!
Their menu offers a variety of coffee drinks to suit your taste. From classic drip coffee to fancy lattes, there’s something for everyone.
You can also grab a quick bite to eat with their selection of pastries and sandwiches.
The cafe’s location on Bridge Street makes it a convenient stop for locals and visitors alike. It’s a great spot to meet friends or get some work done.
The free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating make it easy to spend a few hours here.
Don’t forget to try their specialty drinks. The baristas are always coming up with new and exciting flavors that will surprise your taste buds.
Whether you’re a coffee expert or just looking for a quick pick-me-up, Jumpstart Cafe has got you covered.
Rating: 5.0 (11 reviews)
Location: 12 Bridge St, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Contact: (908) 404-3261
History of Coffee Culture in Elizabeth
Coffee culture in Elizabeth has grown from humble beginnings to a vibrant scene. Local cafes have shaped the city’s social fabric for generations.
Early Cafes and Their Influence
Elizabeth’s first coffee shops opened in the mid-20th century. These cozy spots became gathering places for locals to chat and relax.
You could find residents sipping coffee and reading newspapers at small tables.
Many early cafes were run by immigrant families. They brought unique flavors and traditions from their home countries. This blend of cultures helped create Elizabeth’s diverse coffee scene.
As the city grew, so did its love for coffee. More cafes popped up in neighborhoods across Elizabeth. They offered a place for you to meet friends or take a break from work.
Modern Trends in Coffee
In recent years, Elizabeth has seen a boom in specialty coffee shops. You can now find artisanal brews and fancy latte art all over the city.
Many cafes focus on sourcing high-quality beans from around the world. You might taste coffees from Ethiopia, Colombia, or Indonesia in a single visit.
Some popular trends include:
- Cold brew and nitro coffee
- Plant-based milk options
- Pour-over and French press methods
- Local roasters partnering with cafes
Elizabeth’s coffee shops now often double as workspaces. You’ll see students and remote workers with laptops, enjoying free Wi-Fi along with their coffee.
Unique Coffee Experiences
Elizabeth, NJ offers some special coffee spots that stand out from the crowd. You’ll find locally roasted beans and creative drink options in cozy settings that make your coffee break extra enjoyable.
Local Roasts and Specialty Brews
At Unique Coffee Roasters, you can taste freshly roasted beans from around the world. They offer pour-over coffee and cold brews made with care.
The Coffee Mill Roasters is another gem where you can watch them roast beans on-site.
Try their seasonal drinks like pumpkin spice lattes in fall or iced lavender mochas in summer.
Many shops also serve fancy latte art that’s almost too pretty to drink. Some even let you customize your drink with flavored syrups and milk alternatives.
Art and Ambiance in Coffee Shops
Van Gogh’s Ear Cafe brings art and coffee together. You’ll see local artwork on the walls and sometimes live music performances.
The Coffee Box has a cool, modern vibe with sleek decor and comfy seating.
Some cafes host events like open mic nights or book clubs. Others have cozy nooks where you can curl up with a good book. You might find cafes with outdoor seating for nice weather days.
These unique spots give you more than just coffee – they offer a full experience to enjoy with friends or solo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coffee lovers in Elizabeth, NJ have lots of questions about where to find the best brews and treats. Here are answers to some common queries about the local coffee scene.
What are the top-rated coffee spots in Elizabeth, NJ?
The highest-rated coffee shops in Elizabeth include Oh lala Crepes & Coffee Shop, Floral Cafe, and Ayala Coffee. These spots get lots of praise from locals and visitors alike for their tasty drinks and cozy atmospheres.
Where can I find the best latte in Elizabeth, NJ?
Velvet Cafe is known for its excellent lattes. They use high-quality espresso and perfectly steamed milk to create rich, creamy drinks that keep customers coming back.
Can you recommend cozy cafes with WiFi in Elizabeth, NJ?
Floral Cafe offers a comfy spot to work or study with free WiFi. The Colombian Coffee Shop also has a warm vibe and internet access, making it great for settling in with your laptop.
Are there any award-winning coffee shops in Elizabeth, NJ?
While there aren’t any nationally recognized award-winners, Oh lala Crepes & Coffee Shop has won local “Best of” awards for its coffee and crepes. Their unique combo of drinks and treats sets them apart.
What are the local favorite coffee places in Elizabeth, NJ?
Ayala Coffee is a big hit with locals who love their strong brews and friendly service. The Colombian Coffee Shop also has a loyal following for its authentic Colombian coffee.
Where can I find the best freshly baked pastries in Elizabeth, NJ coffee shops?
Oh lala Crepes & Coffee Shop is your best bet for fresh pastries. They’re famous for their crepes, but also offer a range of other baked goods that pair perfectly with coffee.