Montpelier, Vermont’s charming capital, is home to a vibrant coffee scene. You’ll find cozy cafes and local roasters tucked away in historic buildings and along tree-lined streets. These spots offer more than just a caffeine fix – they’re gathering places for the community.
From artisanal brews to freshly baked pastries, Montpelier’s coffee shops have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to work or a lively place to catch up with friends, you’re sure to find your perfect cup in this quaint New England town.
Let’s explore some of the best coffee spots Montpelier has to offer.
1. Capitol Grounds
Capitol Grounds is a popular coffee shop in Montpelier, Vermont. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for sipping your favorite brew or enjoying a quick bite. The shop takes pride in serving high-quality coffee and espresso drinks.
The menu features a variety of options to satisfy your cravings. You can choose from classic coffee drinks, specialty lattes, and teas. They also offer pastries and light meals if you’re feeling hungry.
Capitol Grounds is a great spot to meet friends or get some work done. The friendly staff and welcoming vibe make it a local favorite. You’ll appreciate the attention to detail in every cup they serve.
Rating: 4.6 (492 reviews)
Location: 27 State St, Montpelier, VT 05602
Contact: (802) 223-7800
Website: Visit Website
2. The North Branch Cafe
Step into The North Branch Cafe, a cozy tea spot in Montpelier’s heart. You’ll love the warm atmosphere and views of the Winooski River.
This charming cafe offers a wide selection of teas to suit your tastes. From classic blends to unique flavors, there’s something for every tea lover here.
The North Branch Cafe is perfect for a quiet break or catching up with friends. You can relax and enjoy your drink while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Located on State Street, it’s easy to find and visit during your time in Vermont’s capital city. Stop by to experience the friendly service and soothing ambiance for yourself.
Rating: 4.7 (134 reviews)
Location: 41 State St, Montpelier, VT 05602
Contact: (802) 454-3245
Website: Visit Website
3. Bohemian Bakery
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Bohemian Bakery on Main Street in Montpelier. This charming spot offers a perfect blend of delicious coffee and freshly baked goods.
Start your day with one of their tasty breakfast pastries or savory croissants. For lunch, try their homemade soups and sandwiches served on focaccia bread.
Don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with their selection of cakes and cookies. Some gluten-free options are available too. On Thursdays through Sundays, you can grab a hot baguette straight from the oven around noon.
Bohemian Bakery is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 am to 1 pm. It’s a great place to enjoy a cappuccino, latte, or chai while savoring their delectable treats.
Rating: 4.6 (242 reviews)
Location: 83 Main St, Montpelier, VT 05602
Website: Visit Website
4. Café Anna
You’ll love Café Anna, a hidden gem tucked away on College Street in Montpelier. This charming coffee shop offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for sipping your favorite brew.
The friendly staff at Café Anna takes pride in crafting delicious drinks. You can choose from a variety of coffee options, from classic espresso to specialty lattes.
Café Anna is a great spot to meet friends or get some work done. The quiet ambiance makes it ideal for studying or having a relaxed conversation over a steaming cup of joe.
Don’t forget to try their tasty pastries and snacks. They pair perfectly with your coffee and add a little extra sweetness to your visit.
Rating: 4.8 (8 reviews)
Location: 36 College St, Montpelier, VT 05602
Contact: (802) 828-8827
5. Birchgrove Baking
Birchgrove Baking is a cozy spot in Montpelier that will satisfy your sweet tooth and caffeine cravings. You’ll find a wide selection of freshly baked treats to pair with your coffee or tea.
The bakery prides itself on using high-quality ingredients to create delicious pastries, cakes, and bread. You can choose from classic favorites like croissants and muffins, or try something unique like their seasonal specialties.
Don’t forget to grab a cup of coffee to go with your baked goods. The baristas at Birchgrove know how to brew a perfect cup, whether you prefer a simple drip coffee or a fancy latte.
The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes Birchgrove Baking a great place to meet friends or enjoy some quiet time with a book and a pastry. You’ll feel right at home in this charming local bakery.
Rating: 4.9 (188 reviews)
Location: 279 Elm St, Montpelier, VT 05602
Contact: (802) 223-0200
Website: Visit Website
6. Wayside Restaurant, Bakery & Creamery
Wayside Restaurant, Bakery & Creamery is a must-visit spot in Montpelier for coffee lovers. This charming establishment offers more than just your average cup of joe.
You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for sipping your favorite brew. The bakery serves up fresh pastries that pair wonderfully with their coffee selection.
Don’t miss their homemade ice cream – it’s a local favorite. You can enjoy a scoop or two while you relax with your coffee.
Wayside’s friendly staff and welcoming vibe make it a great place to catch up with friends or get some work done.
Rating: 4.4 (2000 reviews)
Location: 1873 US-302, Montpelier, VT 05602
Contact: (802) 223-6611
Website: Visit Website
7. Cafe NOA
Cafe NOA brings a taste of Joe’s grandmother’s kitchen to Montpelier. You’ll find wholesome, flavorful dishes inspired by family recipes and fresh ingredients.
The cafe’s soups are a standout, simmering with roasted chicken, potatoes, and garden-fresh vegetables. Herbs like parsley, oregano, and thyme add a special touch to every bowl.
Joe, the owner, trained at a top cooking school in Paris. He later taught at New England Culinary Institute, bringing his passion for food to Vermont.
At Cafe NOA, you can enjoy meals made with care and skill. The menu changes with the seasons, using the best local produce available.
Rating: 4.6 (42 reviews)
Location: 8 Putnam St, Montpelier, VT 05602
Contact: (802) 223-1130
Website: Visit Website
8. Dunkin’
Looking for a quick coffee fix in Montpelier? Dunkin’ has you covered. This popular chain offers a wide range of drinks and snacks to satisfy your cravings any time of day.
You’ll find over 50 types of donuts to choose from, perfect for pairing with your favorite coffee or espresso drink. Their menu also includes tasty breakfast sandwiches if you need something more substantial.
Dunkin’ is a great spot to grab food and drinks on the go. The staff works quickly to keep lines moving, so you can get your caffeine boost without a long wait. It’s an easy choice when you want reliable, familiar flavors without any fuss.
Rating: 3.9 (375 reviews)
Location: 51 Berlin St, Montpelier, VT 05602
Contact: (802) 223-0928
Website: Visit Website
Coffee Culture in Montpelier
Montpelier’s coffee scene is vibrant and diverse. You’ll find a mix of long-standing cafes and newer artisanal roasters that cater to all tastes.
History and Evolution
Coffee has been part of Montpelier’s social fabric for decades. In the past, simple diners served basic brews to locals and visitors. As tastes changed, so did the coffee offerings.
The 1990s saw a shift towards specialty coffee. New cafes opened, bringing espresso drinks and lattes to the city. Capitol Grounds Café became a popular spot, attracting legislators and residents alike.
By the 2000s, third-wave coffee culture took hold. Cafes started focusing on single-origin beans and unique brewing methods. This trend continues today, with shops like Birchgrove Baking and The North Branch Cafe leading the way.
Local Roasteries
Montpelier is home to several small-batch coffee roasters. These businesses take pride in sourcing high-quality beans and creating unique blends.
802 Coffee, formerly known as Capitol Grounds Roasters, is a local favorite. They roast their beans in small batches to ensure freshness. You can find their coffee in many cafes around the city.
Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea is another notable roaster. They offer a wide range of single-origin coffees and blends. Their commitment to quality has earned them a loyal following among coffee enthusiasts.
These roasters often work closely with local cafes. This partnership helps create a tight-knit coffee community in Montpelier. Baristas experiment with new roasts and brewing techniques to bring you the best cup possible.
Unique Features of Montpelier’s Coffee Shops
Montpelier’s coffee shops offer more than just great brews. You’ll find artistic spaces and eco-friendly practices that make each spot special.
Artistic Ambiences
When you step into Montpelier’s coffee shops, you’re in for a visual treat. Local art adorns the walls, changing regularly to showcase new talent.
At Capitol Grounds Cafe, you can sip your latte surrounded by colorful paintings and sculptures. The North Branch Cafe features a cozy reading nook with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves.
Some shops host live music nights. You might catch an acoustic set while enjoying your espresso at Birchgrove Baking.
Many cafes double as mini-galleries. You can browse and buy pieces directly from the artists. It’s a great way to support the local creative community.
Sustainable Practices
Montpelier’s coffee shops take eco-friendly steps seriously. You’ll notice reusable cups and compostable straws at most locations.
Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea uses solar panels to power their roastery. They also offer discounts when you bring your own mug.
Many shops source beans from fair trade and organic farms. This ensures farmers get fair pay and reduces harmful pesticides.
You’ll find plenty of plant-based milk options too. Oat, almond, and soy are common choices for your dairy-free drinks.
Some cafes even grow their own herbs for tea blends. It doesn’t get more local than that!
Supporting Local Businesses
When you visit coffee shops in Montpelier, you’re doing more than just getting your caffeine fix. You’re helping the local economy thrive. Many of these cafes are small, independently-owned businesses that add character to Vermont’s capital city.
By choosing local shops over big chains, you keep money in the community. This helps create jobs and supports other local suppliers too. Montpelier’s coffee shops often source their ingredients from nearby farms and producers.
These cafes also serve as gathering spots for locals. They host events, display local art, and foster a sense of community. When you grab a coffee at places like Birchgrove Baking or Capitol Grounds Cafe, you’re part of this vibrant local scene.
Some shops, like 802 Coffee, started small and grew over time. Your support allows businesses like these to expand and improve their offerings. As a customer, you get to enjoy better coffee and food as these shops evolve.
Visiting local coffee shops also helps preserve Montpelier’s unique charm. Instead of seeing the same chain stores everywhere, you get to experience spots that reflect Vermont’s culture and values.
Frequently Asked Questions
Montpelier offers many great coffee shops to explore. Here are answers to some common questions about the local coffee scene.
What are the top-rated coffee shops in downtown Montpelier, VT?
Capitol Grounds and The North Branch Cafe are highly rated spots in downtown Montpelier. Both offer quality coffee and a welcoming atmosphere. Capitol Grounds is known for its friendly service and central location.
Which coffee shops in Montpelier are local favorites for breakfast?
Bohemian Bakery and Café Anna are popular breakfast spots. Bohemian Bakery serves fresh pastries alongside their coffee. Café Anna offers tasty breakfast sandwiches to pair with your morning brew.
Are there any coffee shops in Montpelier that also offer fresh bakery items?
Yes! Birchgrove Baking is loved for its coffee and baked goods. They make delicious pastries, cakes, and other treats in-house daily. Bohemian Bakery also bakes fresh items to enjoy with your coffee.
Can you recommend some coffee places in Montpelier, VT with a cozy atmosphere?
The North Branch Cafe has a cozy, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for relaxing. Capitol Grounds also offers a warm, inviting space to enjoy your coffee. Both spots are great for settling in with a book or meeting friends.
Where can I find specialty coffee drinks in Montpelier, Vermont?
Capitol Grounds and Café Anna both serve up unique specialty drinks. You can try seasonal lattes, creative cold brews, and other fun coffee concoctions at these spots. The baristas are skilled at crafting tasty and eye-catching beverages.
Which Montpelier coffee shops are known for their strong local community ties?
Capitol Grounds is a longtime local favorite that’s deeply connected to the community. The North Branch Cafe also has strong local ties. They often host events and showcase local art. These shops are great places to get a feel for Montpelier’s community spirit.