Athens, Georgia is home to a thriving coffee scene with many great spots to grab a cup of joe. Whether you’re a student at the University of Georgia or a local resident, there’s no shortage of cozy cafes and trendy coffee shops to explore.
From small indie roasters to popular chains, you’ll find something to suit your taste.
Athens offers a variety of coffee shops with different styles and atmospheres to choose from. You can enjoy everything from artisanal pour-overs to frozen blended drinks.
Many places also serve tasty baked goods and light meals to go with your coffee. Some shops even host events or live music, adding to the vibrant culture of this college town.
1. Hendershot’s
You’ll love Hendershot’s cozy atmosphere and great coffee. It’s a popular spot in Athens where you can relax and enjoy your favorite drink.
The cafe offers a wide selection of coffee and tea. You can also grab a quick bite to eat with their tasty food options.
Hendershot’s is known for its live music events. You might catch a local band or solo artist while sipping your latte.
The friendly staff will make you feel welcome. Whether you’re studying, meeting friends, or just need a caffeine fix, Hendershot’s has got you covered.
Rating: 4.6 (638 reviews)
Location: 237 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30601
Website: Visit Website
2. 1000 Faces Coffee
You’ll fall in love with 1000 Faces Coffee the moment you step inside. This charming Athens hotspot serves up some of the best brews in town. Their baristas are true coffee experts who take pride in crafting each cup to perfection.
The cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot to catch up with friends or get some work done. You’ll find plenty of seating options, from comfy couches to tables perfect for spreading out your laptop and books.
1000 Faces is serious about sourcing high-quality beans. They work directly with farmers to ensure ethical practices and bring you the freshest flavors. You can even buy bags of their roasted beans to enjoy at home.
Don’t miss their seasonal drink specials and tasty pastries. The menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new to try on your visits.
Rating: 4.6 (479 reviews)
Location: 510 N Thomas St, Athens, GA 30601
Contact: (706) 534-8860
Website: Visit Website
3. Walkers Coffee Shop & Pub
Walkers Coffee Shop & Pub is a cozy spot that gives you the best of both worlds. You can enjoy a great cup of coffee in the morning and a cold beer in the evening. The place has a warm, welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home.
You’ll love the friendly staff who are always ready to chat and help you choose the perfect drink.
The menu offers a variety of coffee options, from classic brews to specialty lattes. If you’re hungry, try their tasty sandwiches and pastries.
At night, Walkers transforms into a lively pub. You can grab a beer, watch a game, or join in on trivia nights. It’s a great place to hang out with friends or meet new people.
The outdoor seating area is perfect for nice weather days. You can sip your drink while people-watching on College Avenue. It’s a prime spot to soak up the Athens atmosphere.
Rating: 4.5 (569 reviews)
Location: 128 College Ave, Athens, GA 30601
Contact: (706) 543-1433
Website: Visit Website
4. The Rook & Pawn
The Rook & Pawn is a unique coffee shop in Athens, GA that combines your love for coffee with board games. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere perfect for sipping your favorite brew while playing a game with friends.
This charming spot offers a wide selection of board games you can enjoy. From classic favorites to new releases, there’s something for everyone. The staff is friendly and can help you choose a game if you’re unsure.
The coffee at The Rook & Pawn is top-notch. They serve expertly crafted espresso drinks and pour-overs that will satisfy your caffeine cravings. You can also enjoy light snacks and treats to fuel your gaming sessions.
The Rook & Pawn hosts regular events like game nights and tournaments. It’s a great place to meet new people who share your interests in both coffee and gaming.
Rating: 4.7 (552 reviews)
Location: 294 W Washington St #300, Athens, GA 30601
Contact: (706) 543-5040
Website: Visit Website
5. Sips Espresso Cafe
You’ll find a cozy haven at Sips Espresso Cafe on Prince Avenue. This charming spot welcomes you with a warm atmosphere and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Sips is known for its expertly crafted espresso drinks. You can enjoy a smooth latte, a bold americano, or try one of their specialty beverages. The baristas take pride in their work and are happy to customize your drink just the way you like it.
Along with great coffee, Sips offers a selection of pastries and light bites. You can grab a quick breakfast or settle in for a relaxing afternoon snack. The cafe’s comfortable seating makes it a perfect spot for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
Don’t miss their outdoor seating area on nice days. It’s a lovely place to sip your coffee and watch the world go by in this bustling part of Athens.
Rating: 4.7 (365 reviews)
Location: 1390 Prince Ave, Athens, GA 30606
Contact: (706) 363-7211
6. Choco Coffee
Get ready for a delightful coffee experience at Choco Coffee in Athens, GA. This charming spot offers a perfect blend of cozy atmosphere and top-notch brews.
You’ll love the friendly staff who are always ready to help you find your perfect drink. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic espresso or something more adventurous, they’ve got you covered.
Don’t miss out on their specialty chocolate drinks. These sweet treats are a perfect pick-me-up on a busy day or a comforting reward after a long week.
Choco Coffee is a great place to catch up with friends or get some work done. The quiet ambiance and comfortable seating make it easy to spend a few hours here.
Rating: 5 (60 reviews)
Location: 700 Baxter St suite 400, Athens, GA 30605
Contact: (706) 850-0622
Website: Visit Website
7. Buvez
Buvez is a charming coffee shop in Athens that you’ll love. It’s a cozy spot perfect for sipping your favorite brew and catching up with friends.
The atmosphere at Buvez is warm and inviting. You’ll feel right at home as soon as you step inside. The friendly staff will greet you with a smile and help you choose from their tasty menu.
Buvez offers a great selection of coffee drinks. You can enjoy classic espresso-based beverages or try something new and exciting. They also serve light bites if you’re feeling hungry.
You’ll appreciate the relaxed vibe at Buvez. It’s an ideal place to work, study, or just unwind with a good book. The comfortable seating and pleasant decor make it easy to spend hours here.
Rating: 4.6 (194 reviews)
Location: 585 Barber St suite a, Athens, GA 30601
Contact: (706) 850-0172
Website: Visit Website
8. Paris Banh Mi Cafe and Bakery – Athens
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Paris Banh Mi Cafe and Bakery. This charming spot offers a perfect blend of French and Vietnamese flavors right in the heart of Athens.
Treat yourself to their freshly baked croissants and baguettes. The aroma of coffee fills the air, inviting you to stay and savor every sip.
Don’t miss out on their signature banh mi sandwiches. The crispy bread and flavorful fillings make for a delicious lunch option you’ll want to come back for again and again.
The friendly staff and quick service add to the enjoyable experience. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a relaxing coffee break, Paris Banh Mi has got you covered.
Rating: 4.7 (154 reviews)
Location: 163 W Clayton St, Athens, GA 30601
Contact: (706) 612-3034
Website: Visit Website
9. Cafe Racer
Cafe Racer is a cool spot in Athens that you’ll love if you’re into motorcycles and great coffee. The shop’s name comes from a type of custom motorcycle, and you’ll see that theme all over the place.
When you walk in, you’ll notice the bike-inspired decor and the smell of fresh coffee. The baristas are friendly and know their stuff. They can make you a perfect latte or recommend a new drink to try.
Cafe Racer isn’t just about coffee, though. You can grab a quick breakfast or lunch here too. They have tasty sandwiches and pastries that go great with your drink.
It’s a good place to meet friends or get some work done.
The shop has a laid-back vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. You can sit inside or enjoy your coffee on the patio when the weather’s nice. It’s a fun spot to people-watch and soak up the Athens atmosphere.
Rating: 4.7 (143 reviews)
Location: 2343 W Broad St, Athens, GA 30606
Contact: (706) 850-0297
Website: Visit Website
10. Jittery Joe’s Coffee – Five Points
Jittery Joe’s Coffee in Five Points is a cozy spot for coffee lovers in Athens. You’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere as soon as you step inside. The smell of freshly roasted beans fills the air, making you feel right at home.
The baristas at Jittery Joe’s are friendly and know their coffee. They can help you pick the perfect drink to suit your taste. Whether you like a strong espresso or a smooth latte, they’ve got you covered.
Jittery Joe’s offers a great selection of pastries and snacks to go with your coffee. You can grab a quick bite or settle in for a longer stay. The shop has comfortable seating and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
Don’t forget to try their specialty drinks. Jittery Joe’s often has seasonal offerings that are worth a taste. You might find a new favorite that keeps you coming back for more.
Rating: 4.6 (384 reviews)
Location: 1230 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30605
Contact: (706) 208-1979
Website: Visit Website
The Culture of Coffee in Athens
Athens, GA has a thriving coffee culture that reflects the city’s vibrant and creative spirit. You’ll find a mix of cozy cafes and trendy spots that cater to students, locals, and visitors alike.
Many coffee shops in Athens focus on sourcing high-quality beans and crafting unique drinks. You can expect to see a variety of brewing methods, from pour-overs to cold brews.
The atmosphere in Athens’ coffee shops is often relaxed and welcoming. You’ll notice students studying, friends chatting, and remote workers tapping away on laptops.
Some popular coffee spots in Athens include:
- 1000 Faces Coffee
- Hendershot’s Coffee
- Jittery Joe’s
- Buvez
- Sips
These cafes often host events like open mic nights, art shows, and live music performances. This helps create a sense of community around coffee culture in Athens.
You’ll also find that many Athens coffee shops support local artists by displaying their work or selling locally made goods. This adds to the unique charm of each cafe.
Unique Coffee Experiences
Athens, GA offers coffee lovers some truly special ways to enjoy their favorite brew. You can explore artisan roasting methods and discover local brewing techniques that bring out unique flavors.
Artisan Roasting Techniques
1000 Faces Coffee leads the way in artisan roasting. They use a small-batch drum roaster to craft their beans. This method allows for precise control over temperature and time. The result? Coffee with complex flavor profiles.
You can watch the roasting process through their viewing window. It’s a great chance to see how your coffee goes from green beans to aromatic grounds. The roasters often explain their techniques, so you can learn about the art of coffee making.
Local Brew Methods
Athens coffee shops pride themselves on unique brewing methods. At Hendershot’s, you’ll find pour-over coffee stations. This slow, manual technique brings out subtle notes in each cup.
Jittery Joe’s offers cold brew on tap. They steep coffee grounds in cool water for 12-24 hours. This creates a smooth, less acidic drink perfect for hot Georgia days.
Some shops use siphon brewers. These look like science experiments and make a clean, flavorful cup. The process is fun to watch and results in a light-bodied coffee with bright flavors.
Sustainable Coffee Practices
Athens coffee shops are leading the way in eco-friendly and ethical practices. These efforts help protect the environment and support coffee farmers.
Ethical Sourcing
You’ll find that many Athens cafes focus on fair trade and direct trade coffee. This means they work closely with farmers to ensure fair wages and good working conditions. 1000 Faces Coffee is one shop that partners with growers who use sustainable methods. They aim to make coffee more than just a faceless product.
Some local roasters visit farms to build relationships with growers. This allows them to see the farming practices firsthand. You can often learn about the origins of your coffee right in the shop.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
Athens coffee shops are moving away from single-use plastics. You’ll see more compostable cups, lids, and straws. Some cafes offer discounts when you bring your own mug.
Reusable options are becoming popular too. You can buy branded tumblers at many shops. This cuts down on waste and shows your support for local businesses.
Some roasters use eco-friendly bags for their beans. These might be made from renewable materials or designed to break down easily. You can often refill these bags to further reduce packaging waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Athens, GA has many great coffee shops to explore. Here are answers to common questions about finding the best spots for your caffeine fix in this college town.
Where can I find the best coffee in downtown Athens, GA?
You’ll find excellent coffee at 1000 Faces Coffee in downtown Athens. They roast their own beans and offer unique single-origin options. Walkers Coffee Shop & Pub is another downtown favorite, with a cozy atmosphere and tasty espresso drinks.
What are some must-visit coffee shops in Athens for a true local experience?
For a true Athens experience, check out Hendershot’s. It’s a local institution known for great coffee and live music. The Rook & Pawn is also worth a visit. It’s a board game cafe with good coffee and a fun vibe.
Are there any new coffee shops in Athens, GA that have opened recently?
Athens’ coffee scene is always evolving. While no brand new shops stood out in recent searches, it’s worth asking locals or checking social media for the latest openings when you visit.
Which coffee shop in Athens, GA offers the best environment for studying or working?
Sips Espresso Cafe is a top pick for studying or working. It has plenty of seating, reliable Wi-Fi, and a calm atmosphere. 1000 Faces Coffee also offers a good work environment with its spacious layout and ample tables.
Can you recommend a coffee shop in Athens, GA with unique or locally roasted blends?
1000 Faces Coffee is your go-to for locally roasted, unique blends. They focus on direct trade and offer a rotating selection of single-origin coffees. Hendershot’s also serves locally roasted beans from nearby roasters.
What are some highly rated coffee spots in Athens, GA with a cozy ambiance?
Walkers Coffee Shop & Pub offers a cozy, laid-back vibe. It’s perfect for relaxing with a cup of joe.
The Rook & Pawn provides a warm atmosphere with its board game theme and comfortable seating.
Hendershot’s also gets high marks for its homey feel and friendly staff.