Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania is home to a thriving coffee scene that’s sure to delight any caffeine lover. From cozy local spots to trendy cafes, this charming city has something for everyone. You’ll find a variety of options to satisfy your coffee cravings and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking for a quick morning pick-me-up or a place to hang out with friends, Wilkes-Barre’s coffee shops have got you covered. These spots offer more than just great coffee – many also serve tasty treats, provide comfy seating, and feature unique decor.
Get ready to explore some of the best coffee destinations this city has to offer.
1. Abide Coffeehouse
Abide Coffeehouse is a cozy spot in the heart of Wilkes-Barre. It’s the perfect place to relax, catch up with friends, or get some work done.
The coffee shop offers a wide range of drinks to suit everyone’s taste. You can enjoy classic lattes, cappuccinos, and seasonal specials.
If you’re not in the mood for coffee, try their cold brews, iced teas, or other cold drinks.
Abide is more than just a coffee shop. It’s a community hub that hosts weekly events and provides a free conference room. Students can take advantage of great discounts, including 50% off drinks on Mondays.
The friendly staff and calm atmosphere make Abide a great spot to unwind. With free Wi-Fi and a welcoming vibe, it’s an ideal “third place” where you can feel at home away from home.
Rating: 4.9 (423 reviews)
Location: 23 W Market St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
Contact: (570) 994-3153
Website: Visit Website
2. Troy Street Coffee Company
Troy Street Coffee Company is a cozy spot in Wilkes-Barre that’s perfect for your caffeine fix. You’ll love the warm atmosphere and friendly staff that greet you as soon as you walk in.
The coffee here is top-notch. You can choose from a variety of expertly brewed drinks, from classic espressos to unique seasonal specialties. Their baristas take pride in crafting each cup to perfection.
Don’t forget to try their tasty pastries and snacks. They pair wonderfully with your coffee and are often made fresh daily. You might even find some local treats that showcase the flavors of Pennsylvania.
If you’re looking for a place to work or study, Troy Street Coffee Company has you covered. You’ll find comfortable seating and a quiet environment that’s ideal for getting things done while enjoying a great cup of joe.
Rating: 4.7 (175 reviews)
Location: 1318 North River Street, Wilkes-Barre, Plains, PA 18705
Contact: (570) 235-1195
3. Pour
Pour Coffee House is a cozy spot in downtown Wilkes-Barre. You’ll find it on North Main Street, where it’s been serving up great coffee since 2018.
When you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the rich aroma of La Colombe Coffee. It’s the perfect place to start your day or take a break from work.
Pour is open every day of the week. You can grab a quick coffee to go or sit and relax. They’re open from early morning until 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy their offerings.
The staff at Pour are known for their friendly service. They’re always ready to help you pick the perfect drink or snack. You can also order online through GrubHub if you’re in a hurry.
Rating: 4.7 (145 reviews)
Location: 53 N Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
Contact: (570) 822-1888
Website: Visit Website
4. The Strange and Unusual
You’ll find a truly unique coffee experience at The Strange and Unusual in Kingston. This quirky shop offers more than just your average cup of joe. It’s a place where you can sip your drink surrounded by oddities and curiosities.
The atmosphere is one-of-a-kind, with unusual decor and collectibles adorning every corner. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different world as you enjoy your coffee. The shop sells a variety of strange and unusual items, perfect for those who love the unconventional.
For ten years, The Strange and Unusual has been serving up both coffee and unique goods. It’s a great spot to find gifts for the eccentric people in your life. You can browse their selection of weird and wonderful items while savoring your beverage.
Rating: 4.8 (579 reviews)
Location: 467 Wyoming Ave, Kingston, PA 18704
Contact: (570) 718-6961
Website: Visit Website
5. Common Grounds Caffe
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Common Grounds Caffe in Kingston. This charming coffee shop is a local favorite, known for its welcoming vibe and tasty drinks.
The friendly staff will make you feel right at home as soon as you walk in. They’re always ready with a smile and helpful suggestions if you’re not sure what to order.
Common Grounds offers a great selection of coffee and tea options. You can also enjoy some delicious pastries or light snacks to go with your drink. It’s the perfect spot to catch up with friends or get some work done.
The cafe’s location on West Union Street makes it easy to find. You’ll appreciate the convenient parking and the comfortable seating inside.
Rating: 4.6 (170 reviews)
Location: 166 W Union St, Kingston, PA 18704
Contact: (570) 718-6900
6. Steamy Hallows Coffee Potion
Step into a magical world at Steamy Hallows Coffee Potion in Kingston, PA. This charming coffee shop brings the wizarding world to life with its enchanting decor and themed drinks.
You’ll feel like you’ve entered Hogwarts as you sip on potions disguised as delicious coffee creations. The menu features cleverly named beverages that will delight fans of the popular book series.
The friendly staff adds to the magical atmosphere, often dressed in character-inspired outfits. They’re happy to help you choose the perfect potion to suit your taste.
Don’t forget to check out the unique merchandise available. You might find the perfect wand or magical trinket to take home as a souvenir of your visit to this spellbinding coffee shop.
Rating: 4.9 (64 reviews)
Location: 467 Wyoming Ave, Kingston, PA 18704
Contact: (570) 718-6961
Website: Visit Website
7. Haunt Coffee LLC
Haunt Coffee LLC is a hidden gem in Wilkes-Barre Township. You’ll love the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff that make you feel right at home.
Their coffee is top-notch, with a variety of roasts and blends to suit your taste. You can choose from classic drip coffee or try one of their specialty espresso drinks.
Don’t forget to grab a pastry or snack to go with your coffee. The menu features freshly baked goods that pair perfectly with your drink of choice.
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to work or catch up with friends, Haunt Coffee LLC is the place to be. The comfortable seating and relaxed vibe make it ideal for spending a few hours.
Rating: 4.8 (51 reviews)
Location: 720 Wilkes Barre Township Blvd, Wilkes-Barre Township, PA 18702
Contact: (272) 808-0088
8. Purrfect Mugs Cat Cafe
You’ll love Purrfect Mugs Cat Cafe if you’re a cat lover who enjoys coffee. This unique spot combines a gift shop, coffee shop, and cat foster home all in one place.
For $10, you can spend 50 minutes in the Cat Den, cuddling with adorable kitties waiting for their forever homes. It’s a great way to relax and maybe even find a new furry friend to adopt.
The cafe limits visitors to 12 at a time, so it’s best to book ahead. Don’t worry if you just want coffee though – the coffee shop and gift shop are separate from the cat area, so you can pop in anytime.
Rating: 4.9 (162 reviews)
Location: 1325 N River St Suite 102A, Plains, PA 18702
Contact: (570) 606-9559
Website: Visit Website## 9. Crimson Lion Lounge
Crimson Lion Lounge is a hidden gem in Wilkes-Barre’s coffee scene. You’ll find this cozy spot on East South Street. It welcomes you with a warm and inviting atmosphere.
As you step inside, you’re greeted by the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The lounge offers a variety of coffee drinks, from classic espressos to creative specialty lattes. You can pair your beverage with one of their tasty pastries or light bites.
The lounge’s decor is a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. You’ll love the plush seating and soft lighting, making it an ideal place to relax or catch up with friends. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming vibe, always ready to help you choose the perfect drink.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to work or a place to unwind after a long day, Crimson Lion Lounge has got you covered. Its central location makes it easy to pop in for a quick coffee break or spend a leisurely afternoon sipping your favorite brew.
Rating: 4.7 (95 reviews)
Location: 37 E South St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
Contact: (570) 208-2909
10. The Main Bean
The Main Bean is a cozy coffee shop in Luzerne that you’ll love. It’s the perfect spot to grab your morning cup or meet friends for a chat. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home.
You’ll find a great selection of coffee drinks here. From classic lattes to seasonal specialties, there’s something for every taste. Don’t forget to try one of their fresh-baked pastries to go with your coffee.
The shop has a warm, welcoming atmosphere. You can relax in comfortable seating while you sip your drink. It’s also a good place to get some work done if you need a change of scenery.
The Main Bean is popular with locals for good reason. You’ll enjoy the quality drinks and small-town charm. Stop by to see why it’s a favorite in the Wilkes-Barre area.
Rating: 4.8 (252 reviews)
Location: 161 Main St #200, Luzerne, PA 18709
Contact: (570) 338-2759
Website: Visit Website
History of Coffee Culture in Wilkes-Barre
Coffee has been a part of Wilkes-Barre’s social fabric for generations. In the 1950s and 60s, locals gathered at diners and cafes to sip their morning brew and catch up on the latest news.
As the decades passed, coffee culture in Wilkes-Barre grew and changed. New shops opened, bringing fresh flavors and styles to the city. You might have noticed more variety in your coffee options over the years.
Today, Wilkes-Barre boasts a thriving coffee scene. You can find everything from cozy neighborhood spots to trendy downtown cafes. Places like Pour Coffee House and Abide Coffeehouse have become local favorites.
These modern coffee shops offer more than just a caffeine fix. They’re community hubs where you can meet friends, work on projects, or simply relax with a good book.
Some highlights of Wilkes-Barre’s current coffee culture include:
- Fresh-roasted beans
- Specialty espresso drinks
- Comfy seating areas
- Friendly staff
- Local art and music events
Whether you prefer a classic cup of joe or a fancy latte, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your coffee cravings in Wilkes-Barre.
Local Coffee Roasting Techniques
Wilkes-Barre’s coffee scene thrives on local roasting techniques. These methods bring out unique flavors in every cup. Let’s explore the origins of beans and roasting methods used by local shops.
Origins of Local Beans
Many Wilkes-Barre coffee shops source beans from around the world. You’ll find coffees from South America, Africa, and Asia. Some popular origins include:
- Colombia: Known for balanced flavors
- Ethiopia: Offers fruity and floral notes
- Brazil: Provides nutty and chocolate tones
Local roasters often build relationships with farmers. This ensures high-quality beans and fair prices. You might even find some shops featuring single-origin coffees. These highlight the unique taste of beans from one specific region.
Roasting Profiles and Methods
Wilkes-Barre roasters use different methods to create distinct flavors. Common roasting profiles include:
- Light roast: Bright and acidic
- Medium roast: Balanced and smooth
- Dark roast: Bold and rich
Many local shops use drum roasters. These machines tumble beans as they heat up. Some roasters prefer air roasting for a cleaner taste.
You’ll find roasters experimenting with roast times and temperatures. This fine-tuning brings out the best in each bean type. Some shops even offer custom roasts based on your taste preferences.
Local roasters often do small batches. This ensures freshness and allows for more precise control. You can often watch the roasting process in some Wilkes-Barre coffee shops.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
Wilkes-Barre’s coffee shops offer warm, inviting spaces for you to relax and enjoy your favorite brew. From trendy decor to community-focused gatherings, these cafes provide more than just great coffee.
Interior Design Trends
You’ll find a mix of styles in Wilkes-Barre’s coffee shops. Many embrace a cozy, rustic feel with exposed brick walls and wooden furniture. Others go for a more modern look with sleek counters and colorful artwork.
Soft lighting and comfy seating are common features. You’ll often spot plush armchairs or cushioned window seats perfect for curling up with a book.
Plants are big in local cafes too. Hanging ferns and potted succulents add a touch of nature to the indoor spaces.
Some shops showcase local art on their walls. This gives you a chance to enjoy Wilkes-Barre’s creative talent while sipping your latte.
Community Events and Gatherings
Coffee shops in Wilkes-Barre do more than serve drinks – they bring people together. Many host regular events that you can join.
Open mic nights are popular. You might hear local musicians or poets sharing their work. Some cafes hold art classes where you can learn to paint or draw.
Book clubs often meet in these cozy spaces. It’s a great way to discuss your favorite reads with fellow coffee lovers.
Game nights are another fun option. You can challenge friends to board games or trivia contests over a steaming cup of joe.
During holidays, special events pop up too. Think pumpkin carving in fall or cookie decorating in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wilkes-Barre has many great coffee shops to explore. Here are answers to common questions about the local cafe scene.
What are some highly rated coffee shops in Wilkes-Barre?
Abide Coffeehouse and Pour are two top-rated spots in Wilkes-Barre. Customers love Abide’s cozy atmosphere and Pour’s high-quality coffee. Troy Street Coffee Company also gets great reviews for its friendly service.
Where can I find a cozy atmosphere for studying in local Wilkes-Barre cafes?
The Strange and Unusual offers a unique, quirky vibe perfect for settling in with a book. Common Grounds Caffe provides a warm, welcoming space ideal for getting work done. Both have comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi.
Pour Coffee House stands out for its wide selection. You’ll find classic drinks alongside creative seasonal specials. They also offer tasty food options to pair with your coffee.
What Wilkes-Barre coffee shops are known for their local artisanal brews?
Troy Street Coffee Company takes pride in their house-roasted beans. Abide Coffeehouse partners with local roasters to bring you fresh, high-quality coffee. Both places let you taste the best of Wilkes-Barre’s coffee scene.
Which coffee shops in Wilkes-Barre offer live music or entertainment?
The Strange and Unusual often hosts local musicians and art shows. Common Grounds Caffe sometimes features acoustic performers on weekends. Check their social media pages for upcoming events.
Are there any Wilkes-Barre coffee places with options for vegans or gluten-free diets?
Abide Coffeehouse offers plant-based milk alternatives and some vegan pastries. Pour has gluten-free snack options. The Strange and Unusual caters to various dietary needs with their menu selections.