Looking for a great cup of coffee in Kingston, Rhode Island? You’re in luck! This charming town has some wonderful cafes and coffee shops to satisfy your caffeine cravings.
From cozy local spots to popular chains, there’s something for every coffee lover.
Kingston’s top coffee shops offer tasty drinks, yummy treats, and comfy spaces to relax or get work done. You’ll find friendly baristas, fresh-roasted beans, and unique menu items that set these places apart.
Whether you’re a student at the University of Rhode Island or just passing through town, be sure to check out some of Kingston’s best coffee destinations.
1. TLC Coffee Roasters
TLC Coffee Roasters has been serving top-notch coffee since 1999. You’ll find this gem on Route 138 in West Kingston, where they offer artfully created brews that comfort the soul.
Their commitment to equitably sourced beans sets them apart. You can taste the freshness in every cup, even when it’s served from a jug on the shelf.
At TLC, you’re spoiled for choice with milk options. They offer regular milk, cream, almond milk, and oat milk at no extra charge.
You can also add cocoa powder, cinnamon, and various sugars to customize your drink.
The shop has strong community roots and aims to make a positive impact. Coffee lovers drive from far and wide to enjoy TLC’s exceptional brews.
Rating: 4.6 (621 reviews)
Location: 3362 Kingstown Rd, West Kingston, RI 02892
Contact: (401) 284-0501
Website: Visit Website
2. 193° Coffeehouse
You’ll find 193° Coffeehouse tucked away in the Memorial Union at the University of Rhode Island. This cozy spot is a favorite among students and staff looking for a quick caffeine fix between classes.
The coffee here is always fresh and hot. You can grab a simple drip coffee or try one of their specialty drinks.
They also offer a variety of teas and cold beverages if you’re not in the mood for coffee.
Need a snack? 193° Coffeehouse has you covered. They serve pastries and light bites that pair perfectly with your drink.
It’s a great place to meet up with friends or study for your next exam.
Don’t forget to bring your reusable cup! The staff is friendly and always happy to fill up your own mug. This helps cut down on waste and might even save you a few cents on your order.
Rating: 5 (8 reviews)
Location: Memorial Union, 50 Lower College Rd #200, Kingston, RI 02881
Website: Visit Website
3. Bru Coffee Bar
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Bru Coffee Bar. This charming spot on Fortin Road is perfect for grabbing a quick cup or settling in with your laptop.
The baristas are friendly and skilled. They craft delicious espresso drinks and pour-overs using quality beans.
You can also enjoy tasty pastries and light bites to go with your coffee.
Bru has comfy seating and free Wi-Fi. It’s a great place to study, work, or catch up with friends.
The shop has a warm, welcoming vibe that will make you want to stay awhile.
Students from nearby URI often come here to fuel up. But locals and visitors alike appreciate Bru’s quality brews and relaxed setting. It’s definitely worth a visit when you’re in Kingston.
Rating: 4.2 (50 reviews)
Location: 56 Fortin Rd, Kingston, RI 02881
Contact: (401) 642-6100
4. Caf Bar
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Caf Bar in South Kingstown. This charming coffee shop on Main Street is a local favorite for good reason.
Caf Bar offers a wide selection of delicious coffee drinks to start your day right. You can also enjoy tasty breakfast and lunch options if you’re feeling hungry.
The friendly staff will make you feel welcome as soon as you walk in. You’ll appreciate the quick service, even during busy times.
Caf Bar is open every day, with slightly later hours on weekends. It’s a great spot to meet friends or get some work done while sipping your favorite brew.
Rating: 4.7 (227 reviews)
Location: 396 Main St, South Kingstown, RI 02879
Contact: (401) 788-0788
Website: Visit Website
5. International Pocket Cafe
Looking for a cozy spot to grab a cup of joe in Kingston? International Pocket Cafe might be just what you’re after. This charming little cafe offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
You’ll find a variety of coffee options to suit your taste, from classic drip brews to fancy espresso drinks. The baristas take pride in crafting each beverage with care, ensuring you get a delicious cup every time.
But International Pocket Cafe isn’t just about coffee. They also serve up tasty sandwiches, salads, and pastries if you’re feeling peckish.
It’s a great place to stop by for a quick lunch or afternoon snack.
The cafe’s convenient location on Fortin Road makes it easily accessible for students and locals alike. With its friendly staff and relaxed vibe, you’ll feel right at home as soon as you walk through the door.
Rating: 4.6 (222 reviews)
Location: 99 Fortin Rd, Kingston, RI 02881
Contact: (401) 782-2720
Website: Visit Website
6. Audrey’s Coffee House & Lounge
You’ll feel right at home at Audrey’s Coffee House & Lounge. This family-owned spot in South Kingstown is all about good food, drinks, and times.
Owners Jared and Ashley started Audrey’s to build community. They wanted to create a place where everyone feels welcome and can enjoy great coffee and company.
Jared, a Rhode Island native, brings his love for the state to Audrey’s. You’ll notice the local touch in the warm atmosphere and friendly service.
At Audrey’s, you can sip on tasty coffee drinks, grab a bite to eat, and relax in a cozy setting. It’s a perfect spot to catch up with friends or get some work done.
Rating: 4.5 (235 reviews)
Location: 60 S County Commons Way, South Kingstown, RI 02879
Contact: (401) 661-9787
Website: Visit Website
7. North Koffee
North Koffee is a charming coffee shop in North Kingstown that roasts its own beans. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for sipping your favorite brew.
The owners, Steph and Em, turned their passion for coffee into reality by opening this roastery and café. They source high-quality, ethically grown beans from around the world.
At North Koffee, you can enjoy creative coffee drinks, espresso, and tasty pastries. Try their flavorful toast creations or treats from award-winning Rhode Island artisans.
You can relax inside or in the Koffee Garden with free Wi-Fi. Don’t forget to pick up some freshly roasted coffee beans to brew at home.
Rating: 4.8 (70 reviews)
Location: 7726 Post Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852
Contact: (401) 667-2889
Website: Visit Website
8. Bess Eaton
Bess Eaton is a beloved local coffee shop in South Kingstown. You’ll find their original coffee blend and tasty donuts that locals rave about.
The shop takes pride in offering quick, friendly service. You can grab breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and muffins along with your coffee.
Bess Eaton has a rich history in the area. Local residents brought back the brand after it closed years ago. They aim to keep the quality and hometown feel that made it popular.
You might want to try their iced coffee on a warm day. Don’t forget to check out their “Food for Thought” meeting menu if you’re planning a group gathering.
Rating: 4.6 (178 reviews)
Location: 621 Kingstown Rd, South Kingstown, RI 02879
Contact: (401) 789-1200
Website: Visit Website## 9. Lighthouse Coffee Roasters & Cafe
Lighthouse Coffee Roasters & Cafe is a cozy spot with a calm, coastal vibe. You’ll feel right at home in their comfortable seating areas. It’s perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
The cafe roasts their coffee in-house, giving you a fresh and flavorful cup every time. You can pair your drink with one of their homemade pastries for a tasty treat.
If you’re hungry, try their egg sandwiches on New York bagels or their fresh toasts. They also offer smoothies made with real fruit. For lunch, you’ll find plenty of options made with the freshest ingredients.
Lighthouse Coffee caters to different dietary needs. You can find gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan choices on their menu. This makes it a great spot for everyone to enjoy.
Rating: 4.6 (77 reviews)
Location: 7446 Post Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852
Contact: (401) 757-1110
Website: Visit Website
10. Higher Grounds Coffee
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Higher Grounds Coffee in Richmond. This local favorite serves up delicious brews that will perk up your day.
The friendly staff makes you feel right at home as soon as you walk in. They’re always happy to chat and help you pick the perfect drink.
Higher Grounds uses quality beans to craft their coffee drinks. Whether you prefer a simple drip coffee or a fancy latte, you’ll find something tasty here.
Don’t forget to grab a pastry or snack to go with your coffee. The treats pair perfectly with their drinks and make for a great morning pick-me-up.
Rating: 4.9 (172 reviews)
Location: 39 Kingstown Rd, Richmond, RI 02898
Contact: (401) 710-3056
Website: Visit Website
History of Coffee Culture in Kingston
Coffee has been a part of Kingston’s culture for many years. The town’s love for this brew grew alongside its academic community. The University of Rhode Island, founded in 1892, played a big role in shaping local coffee habits.
In the early days, small diners and local shops served basic coffee to residents and students. As time went on, people’s tastes changed. They wanted more variety and higher quality.
The 1990s saw a big shift in Kingston’s coffee scene. New cafes opened up, offering specialty drinks and cozy spots to study or chat. These places became popular hangouts for students and locals alike.
Today, Kingston has a mix of chain coffee shops and unique local spots. You can find everything from quick grab-and-go options to relaxed cafes perfect for long conversations.
The town’s coffee culture reflects its blend of college town energy and small-town charm. Whether you’re a student pulling an all-nighter or a resident catching up with friends, there’s a coffee spot for you in Kingston.
Understanding Specialty Coffee
Specialty coffee offers a unique experience for coffee lovers. It focuses on high-quality beans and careful brewing methods. Let’s explore what makes specialty coffee special.
The Art of Brewing
Brewing specialty coffee is like creating art in a cup. You need the right tools and techniques to bring out the best flavors. A good grinder is key – it helps you get the perfect grind size for your brewing method.
Water temperature matters too. The ideal range is 195-205°F. This helps extract the best flavors without making the coffee bitter.
Different brewing methods can change how your coffee tastes. Pour-over, French press, and espresso each give unique results. Try them all to find your favorite!
Different Coffee Bean Varieties
Coffee beans come in many types, each with its own taste. The two main species are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is known for its smooth, sweet flavor. Robusta has a stronger, more bitter taste.
Within these species, there are many varieties. Some popular ones include:
- Bourbon: Sweet with a hint of fruit
- Typica: Clean and crisp taste
- Gesha: Floral and tea-like
Where the beans grow affects their flavor too. Beans from Ethiopia might taste fruity, while Brazilian beans often have a nutty flavor.
Try beans from different places to find the tastes you like best!
Local Coffee Events and Workshops
Kingston’s coffee scene comes alive with fun gatherings and learning opportunities. You can join fellow coffee lovers to taste new brews and pick up skills.
Community Gatherings
TLC Coffee Roasters hosts monthly “Cupping Nights” where you can sample different coffees. It’s a great way to train your taste buds and meet other coffee fans.
Bru RI Coffee Bar puts on latte art classes every other Saturday. You’ll learn to pour pretty designs in your drinks. The class is hands-on and lots of fun.
Sweet Althea’s organizes a “Coffee and Books” club that meets weekly. You can sip coffee while chatting about the latest reads.
At caf bar, you’ll find “Open Mic Coffee Nights” on Fridays. Local musicians perform while you enjoy your favorite brew.
These events let you dive deeper into coffee culture and make new friends who share your passion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coffee lovers in Kingston, RI have many great options to choose from. Here are answers to some common questions about the local coffee scene.
What are the top-rated coffee shops in downtown Kingston, RI?
TLC Coffee Roasters and Bru Coffee Bar are two highly-rated spots in downtown Kingston. Both offer quality coffee and cozy atmospheres. 193° Coffeehouse is another popular choice known for its friendly service.
Can you recommend some coffee shops with scenic water views in Kingston, RI?
While Kingston itself is inland, nearby spots like Taylor’s Landing Country Store offer coffee with water views. You can grab a coffee to-go from a Kingston shop and enjoy it at the nearby beach.
Audrey’s Coffee House and Lounge does not appear to be a current coffee shop in Kingston, RI. You may want to check out menus for TLC Coffee Roasters or Caf Bar instead.
How do customer reviews rate Audrey’s Coffee House and Lounge?
Since Audrey’s Coffee House and Lounge is not a current Kingston coffee shop, there are no recent customer reviews. TLC Coffee Roasters and Bru Coffee Bar both receive positive reviews from locals and visitors.
What are the signature offerings at TLC Coffee Roasters?
TLC Coffee Roasters is known for its wide range of iced coffees on tap. They also roast their own beans in small batches. Many customers rave about their cold brew options.
Which coffee roastery in Rhode Island is the most popular among locals?
TLC Coffee Roasters in Kingston is very popular with locals. Many Rhode Island residents say they’ll go out of their way to visit TLC. The shop’s freshly roasted beans and iced coffee variety keep customers coming back.