Looking for a great cup of coffee in Hanover, New Hampshire? This charming college town is home to several cozy cafes and coffee shops that serve up delicious brews and tasty treats.
Whether you’re a Dartmouth student needing a caffeine boost or a visitor exploring the area, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your coffee cravings in Hanover. From locally-owned gems to popular chains, there’s a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy a hot (or iced) cup of joe.
1. Lucky’s Coffee Garage
Lucky’s Coffee Garage is a cozy spot in Lebanon, NH that’s perfect for your coffee fix. This charming café opened in 2017 in a renovated historic garage. You’ll love the unique atmosphere that blends industrial chic with small-town warmth.
Lucky’s offers a variety of high-quality brews. You can enjoy espresso, drip coffee, and even nitro cold brew on tap. They source beans from top roasters like Coava Coffee Roasters and Carrier Roasting Company.
But Lucky’s isn’t just about great coffee. You can also grab tasty breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and lunch options. The menu changes with the seasons, so there’s always something new to try.
With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a great place to relax or meet friends. If you’re in a hurry, Lucky’s has you covered too. They recently opened a drive-thru location nearby, so you can get your favorite drinks on the go.
Rating: 4.7 (758 reviews)
Location: 1 N Park St, Lebanon, NH 03766
Website: Visit Website
2. The Works Café
You’ll love the community vibe at The Works Café in Hanover. This cozy spot is perfect for grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a study session.
The menu offers something for everyone. Try their artisanal sandwiches or NY-style bagels for a tasty lunch. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, go for one of their chef-inspired salads with local greens.
The Works takes pride in using thoughtfully sourced ingredients. You can feel good knowing your meal is made with cage-free eggs and naturally cured meats. They even use unbleached flour in their baked goods.
Need to feed a crowd? The Works has you covered with their signature platters. These are great for family gatherings or office meetings. No one will go home hungry!
Rating: 4.6 (88 reviews)
Location: 25 S Main St, Hanover, NH 03755
Contact: (603) 277-2082
Website: Visit Website
3. Dirt Cowboy Cafe
You’ll love the fresh, individually brewed coffee at Dirt Cowboy Cafe. This Hanover gem has been serving up delicious roasts since 1993.
For 15 years running, locals have voted it the “Best Gourmet Coffee Shop” in the area. That’s no surprise given their commitment to quality. They roast 100% Arabica beans to order and ship them the next morning.
You can taste the difference in every cup. Over 600 daily customers can’t be wrong! The cafe is open most days of the week, but check their hours before you visit. They’re closed on Wednesdays.
Stop by Dirt Cowboy Cafe for a truly exceptional coffee experience. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, you’re in for a treat.
Rating: 4.2 (212 reviews)
Location: 7 S Main St, Hanover, NH 03755
Contact: (603) 643-1323
Website: Visit Website
4. Still North Books & Bar
Step into Still North Books & Bar for a unique blend of literature and libations. This cozy spot offers you a chance to browse books while sipping on your favorite drink.
You’ll find a carefully curated selection of titles, perfect for discovering your next great read. The friendly staff can help you pick out a book that matches your interests.
Grab a seat at the bar and enjoy a craft cocktail or local beer. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to chat with other book lovers or lose yourself in a good story.
Don’t miss their events, like author readings and book clubs. These gatherings add an extra layer of fun to your visit and let you connect with fellow readers.
Rating: 4.7 (142 reviews)
Location: 3 Allen St, Hanover, NH 03755
Contact: (603) 676-7846
Website: Visit Website
5. The Nest Kitchen & Cafe
You’ll love The Nest Kitchen & Cafe for its delicious food and friendly service. This cozy spot in Hanover offers a variety of tasty options for breakfast and lunch.
The cafe prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients. They work with nearby farmers to bring you fresh, healthy meals that support the community.
At The Nest, you can grab a great cup of coffee or enjoy a satisfying lunch. Their menu includes smoothies, baked goods, sandwiches, soups, and salads. You’ll find plenty of choices to suit your taste.
For busy days, The Nest Pantry next door offers grab-and-go options. You can pick up prepared meals, fresh pastries, or items from their hot bar and salad bar.
Rating: 4.2 (49 reviews)
Location: 57 S Main St, Hanover, NH 03755
Contact: (603) 277-2916
Website: Visit Website
6. Lou’s Restaurant & Bakery
Lou’s Restaurant & Bakery has been a Hanover staple since 1947. You’ll find this cozy spot right on Main Street, perfect for grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal.
The bakery is a highlight, offering a tempting array of treats. You can indulge in their famous Hanover Fudge Cake or pick up some freshly baked muffins and donuts. If you’re planning an event, Lou’s also offers custom cakes and catering services.
Early risers will appreciate that Lou’s opens at 6:30 AM daily. It’s an ideal place to start your day with a steaming cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast. The restaurant serves until 3 PM, while the bakery stays open until 5 PM on most days.
For those on the go, Lou’s offers convenient takeout options. You can order online and have your food ready when you arrive. Whether you’re craving a sandwich, wrap, or sweet treat, Lou’s has you covered.
Rating: 4.6 (1200 reviews)
Location: 30 S Main St, Hanover, NH 03755
Contact: (603) 643-3321
Website: Visit Website
7. Umpleby’s Bakery Cafe
Umpleby’s Bakery Cafe is a charming spot in Hanover that you’ll want to check out. It’s a local favorite for fresh baked goods and coffee.
The cafe has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. You can grab a quick bite or settle in for a leisurely meal with friends.
Umpleby’s is known for its delicious pastries and sandwiches. Their menu changes regularly, so you’ll always find something new to try. Don’t forget to pair your food with one of their tasty coffee drinks.
The owners, Carolyn and her husband, are often working at the cafe. Their dedication shows in the quality of food and service you’ll receive.
Rating: 4.3 (195 reviews)
Location: 3 South St, Hanover, NH 03755
Contact: (603) 643-3030
Website: Visit Website
8. Mad River Coffee House
You’ll find a warm welcome at Mad River Coffee House in Campton, NH. This cozy spot is where your White Mountains adventure begins. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by the aroma of freshly roasted coffee.
The café serves up what they call “the best cup of coffee north of Concord.” You can enjoy their legendary bagel sandwiches all day long. They also offer a full breakfast and lunch menu, with everything made from scratch in their kitchen.
Mad River Coffee House isn’t just about great food and drinks. It’s a community hub where you can plan your next outdoor trip, catch up with friends, or even enjoy some live music. They also offer coffee education courses if you want to learn more about your favorite brew.
Don’t forget to check out their coffee subscription service. You can have their fresh roasts delivered right to your door, so you never run out of your favorite blend.
Rating: 4.8 (999 reviews)
Location: 18 Six Flags Rd, Campton, NH 03223
Contact: (603) 726-7793
Website: Visit Website## 9. Farmhouse Roasters
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Farmhouse Roasters in Salem, NH. This charming coffee shop offers a warm welcome and delicious brews to start your day right.
The skilled baristas take pride in crafting perfect cups of coffee using freshly roasted beans. You can taste the quality in every sip, whether you prefer a classic drip coffee or a fancy latte.
Farmhouse Roasters opens early, making it a great spot to grab your morning joe before work. On weekends, you can sleep in a bit and still catch them for a relaxing late breakfast or brunch.
Stop by to experience the friendly service and top-notch coffee that keep locals coming back. You might just find your new favorite coffee shop!
Rating: 4.9 (301 reviews)
Location: 163 Main St Suite 101, Salem, NH 03079
Contact: (603) 458-7172
Website: Visit Website
10. Red Kite Candy
Red Kite Candy offers a sweet escape in Hanover. You’ll find handmade treats crafted with care. Their candies make perfect gifts for friends, family, or clients.
Step inside to discover house-made ice cream and tiny cones. It’s a great spot to satisfy your sweet tooth without overdoing it. The shop takes pride in their attention to detail and quality ingredients.
You can order in advance for special events. Red Kite Candy will ensure your goodies arrive fresh. They even offer a secret menu for those in the know. Sign up for emails to access exclusive flavors and early seasonal items.
When sending gifts, Red Kite Candy goes the extra mile. They’ll handwrite your message on a nice card. Your package will arrive beautifully wrapped with no price tags in sight.
Rating: 5 (74 reviews)
Location: 5 South St, Hanover, NH 03755
Contact: (603) 277-9201
Website: Visit Website
The Coffee Culture in Hanover
Hanover’s coffee scene is vibrant and diverse. You’ll find a mix of cozy cafes and bustling shops that cater to all tastes.
Local favorites like Dirt Cowboy Cafe have been serving the community for decades. They roast their own beans and offer individually brewed cups.
Students and locals alike flock to these spots for their daily caffeine fix. You’ll often see people studying or chatting over steaming mugs.
Many cafes in Hanover pride themselves on quality. They source beans from top producers and use skilled baristas to craft perfect drinks.
Some shops also double as gathering spaces. Still North Books & Bar, for example, combines coffee with books and a bar.
You can explore different roasts and brewing methods at various cafes. From pour-overs to espresso drinks, there’s something for every coffee lover.
The town’s coffee culture reflects its academic roots. Cafes often host events, book clubs, or provide quiet spaces for work and study.
Local bakeries like Umpleby’s pair delicious pastries with their coffee offerings. This adds to the rich coffee experience in Hanover.
Understanding Local Coffee Preferences
Hanover coffee lovers have strong opinions about their favorite brews. You’ll find unique preferences for both bean varieties and brewing methods around town.
Popular Coffee Bean Varieties
You’ll notice many Hanover cafes feature light to medium roast single-origin beans. Ethiopian and Colombian varieties are big hits for their bright, fruity notes. Some shops also offer darker roasts from Indonesia or Brazil for those who like a bolder cup.
Local roasters often create custom blends tailored to New England tastes. These might mix beans from different regions for a balanced flavor. Seasonal offerings rotate throughout the year, giving you new flavors to try.
Favorite Brewing Methods
Pour-over is king in Hanover’s coffee scene. You’ll see baristas carefully crafting each cup by hand. This method brings out subtle flavors in light roasts.
Espresso drinks are also popular, especially lattes and cappuccinos. Many cafes use Italian-style machines for rich, creamy shots.
Cold brew is a go-to in warmer months. Shops steep coffee grounds for 12-24 hours to create a smooth, less acidic drink. Some places even offer nitro cold brew on tap for an extra silky texture.
French press and Chemex brewers are common for those who like a fuller-bodied cup. These methods let more oils into the final brew, creating a richer mouthfeel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hanover’s coffee scene offers diverse options for caffeine lovers. Here are answers to some common questions about the local coffee shops.
Where can I find the best latte in Hanover, NH?
Dirt Cowboy Cafe is known for its excellent lattes. They use freshly roasted beans and skilled baristas to create perfect milk-to-espresso ratios.
Lucky’s Coffee Garage also serves up tasty lattes. Their unique garage-themed setting adds a fun twist to your coffee experience.
What are the local favorite coffee spots in Hanover?
Still North Books & Bar is a popular hangout. It combines a bookstore with a coffee shop, making it a cozy spot for readers and coffee lovers alike.
The Works Café is another local favorite. They offer a wide range of coffee drinks and tasty food options.
Which coffee shops in Hanover have the coziest ambiance?
The Nest Kitchen & Cafe provides a warm, homey atmosphere. Its comfortable seating and calm environment make it perfect for relaxing with a cup of joe.
Still North Books & Bar offers a unique cozy vibe. Surrounded by books, you can enjoy your coffee in a quiet, literary setting.
Are there any award-winning coffee establishments in Hanover, NH?
Dirt Cowboy Cafe has won “Best Gourmet Coffee Shop” in the region for 15 years straight. This speaks to their consistent quality.
The Works Café has also received recognition for its coffee and food offerings. They’re known for using high-quality ingredients.
Can you recommend a coffee shop with great breakfast options in Hanover?
Lucky’s Coffee Garage serves up delicious breakfast items alongside their coffee. You can enjoy tasty morning treats in their unique garage-themed space.
The Works Café is another excellent choice for breakfast. They offer a variety of healthy and hearty options to start your day right.
What are the most highly reviewed coffee shops in downtown Hanover?
Dirt Cowboy Cafe consistently receives high praise from locals and visitors alike. Their fresh-roasted beans and skilled baristas make them a top pick.
Still North Books & Bar gets great reviews for its cozy atmosphere and quality coffee. The added bonus of browsing books while sipping your drink is a hit with many customers.