Looking for a great cup of coffee in Scranton? You’re in luck! The Electric City has a vibrant coffee scene with lots of cozy spots to grab your favorite brew.
From charming local cafes to trendy espresso bars, there’s something for every coffee lover in this Pennsylvania town.
Scranton’s best coffee shops offer more than just tasty drinks – they provide warm atmospheres where you can relax, work, or catch up with friends.
Many of these cafes take pride in serving locally roasted beans and homemade treats. Whether you’re a Scranton local or just passing through, exploring the city’s coffee shops is a great way to experience its culture and community.
1. Blackwatch Cafe
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Blackwatch Cafe in Scranton. It’s a great spot to relax with friends or get some work done.
The coffee here is top-notch. They serve rich, flavorful brews that will perk you up any time of day. Try their specialty lattes for a tasty treat.
Blackwatch Cafe often hosts fun events. You might catch a glass etching workshop or other creative activities. It’s a nice way to meet new people in the community.
After your visit, you can check out nearby attractions. The cafe is close to places like the Everhart Museum, so you can make a day of it.
Rating: 4.8 (183 reviews)
Location: 239 Arthur Ave, Scranton, PA 18510
Contact: (570) 209-7682
Website: Visit Website
2. Northern Light Espresso Bar and Cafe
Step into Northern Light Espresso Bar and Cafe, a cozy spot in the heart of Scranton. You’ll find yourself wrapped in the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm cookies as soon as you enter.
Located in the historic Scranton Life building since 2002, this charming cafe has become a local favorite. You can relax in its warm atmosphere while sipping on top-notch coffee or tea.
Northern Light takes pride in serving locally roasted coffee from Damiani Coffee Roasters. Try their new house blend, AURORA, for a taste of their commitment to quality. The cafe’s dedication to their craft ensures you’ll enjoy a great coffee experience.
As Scranton’s oldest independent coffee shop, Northern Light has earned a special place in the community. You’ll feel right at home among the friendly faces and inviting environment that keep customers coming back year after year.
Rating: 4.6 (587 reviews)
Location: 536 Biden St, Scranton, PA 18503
Contact: (570) 342-3200
Website: Visit Website
3. Retro Cafe
Step into Pine Brook’s first coffee shop for a delightful experience. You’ll find freshly brewed coffee and expertly crafted gourmet espresso drinks that’ll satisfy your caffeine cravings.
The Retro Cafe serves up more than just great coffee. You can enjoy tasty breakfast and lunch specials daily. Try their avocado toast or warm up with a comforting tomato soup and grilled cheese combo.
Black & Brass coffee is the star of the show here. Each espresso drink is made with care, ensuring you get the perfect cup every time. The cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax or catch up with friends.
Don’t forget to check out their daily menu for new and exciting options. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast or settling in for lunch, Retro Cafe has something to please your taste buds.
Rating: 4.8 (93 reviews)
Location: 1139 Capouse Ave, Scranton, PA 18509
Contact: (570) 862-2328
Website: Visit Website
4. Zummo’s Cafe
Zummo’s Cafe is a cozy spot in Scranton that you’ll love. It’s known for its warm atmosphere and friendly staff.
You can enjoy a great cup of coffee here. They serve tasty pastries and light meals too. It’s a nice place to relax or catch up with friends.
The cafe has a charming look inside. You’ll find comfy seats and a welcoming vibe. It’s perfect for a quick break or longer stay.
Zummo’s is popular with locals. You might see regulars chatting or working on laptops. It’s a true community hub in Scranton.
Rating: 4.6 (652 reviews)
Location: 916 Marion St, Scranton, PA 18509
Contact: (570) 344-2715
Website: Visit Website
5. Cuppa Cake Cafe
At Cuppa Cake Cafe, you’ll find a sweet spot for coffee and treats in Scranton. This charming cafe offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment alone.
You’ll love the variety of freshly baked cakes and pastries that pair perfectly with their coffee selections. The friendly staff is always ready to help you choose the perfect combo to satisfy your cravings.
Don’t miss their specialty coffee drinks, which change with the seasons. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic latte or something more adventurous, Cuppa Cake Cafe has you covered.
The cafe’s warm and inviting decor makes it a great place to relax or get some work done. You’ll feel right at home among the comfy seating and cheerful atmosphere.
Rating: 4.8 (129 reviews)
Location: 701 E Market St, Scranton, PA 18509
Contact: (570) 871-4352
Website: Visit Website
6. City Market and Cafe
City Market and Cafe is a cozy spot in downtown Scranton. You’ll love the welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff.
The cafe offers a wide selection of coffee drinks and teas. You can also enjoy fresh pastries and sandwiches made daily.
It’s a great place to meet friends or catch up on work. The cafe has comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi for customers.
City Market and Cafe is popular with locals and visitors alike. You might want to arrive early to beat the morning rush.
Rating: 4.4 (240 reviews)
Location: 300 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
Contact: (570) 871-4565
Website: Visit Website
7. Mansour’s Market
Mansour’s Market is a cozy family-owned coffee shop and cafe in Scranton. You’ll love their warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family. The unique dining area takes you back to early 20th century New York City.
Stop by for breakfast or lunch any day except Sunday. They serve fresh, tasty food made with quality ingredients. The menu offers a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
You can grab your favorite coffee drink or try one of their specialty beverages. The friendly staff will make sure you have a great experience. Remember to bring cash or be prepared for a small fee if you use a card.
Rating: 4.6 (458 reviews)
Location: 969 Prescott Ave, Scranton, PA 18510
Contact: (570) 341-6673
Website: Visit Website
8. Heaven & Earth Gift Shop and Café
You’ll find a unique blend of coffee and gifts at Heaven & Earth Gift Shop and Café in downtown Scranton. This family-owned spot offers a relaxing atmosphere where you can sip on La Colombe coffee while browsing their wide selection of items.
The café serves up made-to-order sandwiches and snacks to complement your specialty drink. You can take your time exploring the shop’s diverse offerings, from greeting cards and journals to Fair Trade products and religious items.
Located in the Guild Building, Heaven & Earth boasts a freshly remodeled space with an elegant yet classic style. You’ll appreciate the convenient downtown location and free parking, making it easy to stop by for a quick coffee or leisurely shopping trip.
After your visit, you can easily explore nearby attractions like St. Peter’s Cathedral or Nay Aug Park. It’s a perfect spot to start your day in Scranton or take a break during your adventures around the city.
Rating: 4.8 (30 reviews)
Location: 400 Wyoming Ave #100, Scranton, PA 18503
Contact: (570) 800-1877
Website: Visit Website## 9. Nearme Cafe
Nearme Cafe is a hidden gem in Moosic, just a short drive from Scranton. This cozy spot offers a unique blend of healthy food options and a relaxed atmosphere.
You’ll find a variety of vegan and gluten-free choices on the menu, perfect for those with dietary restrictions. The cafe’s commitment to healthy eating makes it stand out from typical coffee shops.
While sipping your coffee, you can enjoy some nostalgic fun. The cafe has old-school Mario games available, letting you relive childhood memories. If gaming isn’t your thing, grab a book or use the free Wi-Fi to surf the web.
Chelsea Manganaro, the owner, has poured her heart into creating this welcoming space. Her passion for healthy living and community shines through in every aspect of Nearme Cafe.
Rating: 4.6 (137 reviews)
Location: 700 Main St, Moosic, PA 18507
Contact: (570) 471-3051
Website: Visit Website
10. Grateful Roast Coffee and Espresso Bar
Grateful Roast Coffee and Espresso Bar is a cozy spot in Clarks Summit where you can enjoy a great cup of coffee. The friendly staff will make you feel welcome as soon as you walk in.
Their coffee is top-notch, with a variety of roasts and brewing methods to choose from. You can try a smooth espresso or a rich pour-over, depending on your mood.
The atmosphere is perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done. Comfy seating and a calm vibe make it easy to relax and enjoy your drink.
Don’t forget to pair your coffee with one of their tasty baked goods. The treats are made fresh and complement the coffee perfectly.
Rating: 4.8 (88 reviews)
Location: 320 S State St # 1, Clarks Summit, PA 18411
Contact: (570) 599-6240
Website: Visit Website
History of Coffee Culture in Scranton
Scranton’s coffee scene has evolved from humble beginnings to a vibrant part of the city’s culture. You’ll find a rich history of coffee shops and cafes that have shaped Scranton’s love for a good cup of joe over the years.
Origins and Early Growth
Coffee first came to Scranton in the late 1800s as the city grew into an industrial hub. Small diners and cafes popped up to serve workers looking for a quick caffeine fix. By the early 1900s, you could find coffee shops on many street corners.
These early spots were simple affairs – no fancy lattes or pour-overs. Just strong, hot coffee to fuel long work days. As immigrants arrived, they brought new coffee traditions. Italian espresso bars became popular in some neighborhoods.
Modern Trends
In the 1990s, Scranton’s coffee culture began to shift. You started seeing more specialty coffee shops open up. Places like Northern Light Espresso Bar introduced artisanal coffee drinks.
Today, you have lots of choices for great coffee in Scranton. Local roasters like Electric City Roasting Company supply many cafes. You can find pour-over bars, cold brew on tap, and latte art at trendy spots. But classic diners still serve up no-frills coffee too.
Coffee shops have become community hubs. You’ll often see students studying or friends catching up over cappuccinos. The city even hosts an annual coffee festival to celebrate its thriving cafe scene.
Unique Coffee Shop Atmospheres
Scranton’s coffee shops offer a variety of unique atmospheres to suit different tastes. You’ll find cozy spaces perfect for relaxing and artistic spots that inspire creativity.
Cozy and Relaxed
Mansour’s Market creates a warm, nostalgic feel. The old-fashioned decor takes you back in time. You can sink into comfy chairs and enjoy locally roasted coffee.
Blackwatch Cafe gives off cottage vibes inside Nay Aug Park. Its castle-like exterior leads to a cozy interior. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. The space mixes bookworm and Harry Potter themes.
Zummo’s Cafe provides a laid-back setting. You can unwind here with friends or get some work done. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to spend hours sipping coffee.
Chic and Artistic
Northern Light Espresso Bar has a stylish, modern look. You’ll find sleek furniture and eye-catching art on the walls. The space feels trendy and inspiring.
Commonwealth Coffeehouse offers a spacious, tasteful setting. You have lots of seating choices, from tables to a cozy couch. The decor creates a welcoming yet chic vibe.
The Retro Cafe brings a fun, vintage flair to your coffee experience. You’ll spot unique retro items and cool artwork. The space sparks creativity and conversation.
Supporting Local Coffee Suppliers
Scranton’s coffee shops take pride in their connections to local suppliers. They focus on getting high-quality beans and working with nearby roasters. This helps the local economy and gives you better coffee.
Ethically Sourced Beans
Many Scranton cafes use ethically sourced beans. These come from farms that treat workers well and care for the environment. Some shops like Northern Light Espresso Bar buy directly from farmers. This cuts out middlemen and ensures farmers get fair pay.
You can often find info about bean origins on cafe menus. Ask baristas about their sourcing practices. They’re usually happy to share details.
Some places even offer tours or classes about coffee sourcing. It’s a great way to learn more about your daily brew.
Collaboration with Local Roasters
Scranton’s coffee scene thrives on teamwork between cafes and local roasters. Shops like Zummo’s Cafe partner with nearby roasters for fresh beans. This means you get coffee roasted just days before it’s brewed.
Some cafes host “meet the roaster” events. You can talk to the people behind your favorite blends. Others feature rotating roasts from different local suppliers.
Working together helps both cafes and roasters grow. It also gives you more variety to try. Ask about house blends created just for that shop. They’re often unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
Frequently Asked Questions
Scranton has many great coffee shops to explore. Here are answers to some common questions about the city’s top cafes and coffee spots.
What are some highly recommended coffee spots for a good brew in Scranton?
You can’t go wrong with Northern Light Espresso Bar and Cafe or Blackwatch Cafe. Both are known for their quality coffee and welcoming atmospheres. Zummo’s Cafe is another local favorite that serves up tasty brews.
Where can I find a cozy cafe environment for some work or reading in Scranton?
The Retro Cafe offers a cozy, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for settling in with a book or laptop. Cuppa Cake Cafe also has a warm, inviting space where you can relax and get some work done.
Can you suggest any coffee shops in downtown Scranton with great ambiance?
Northern Light Espresso Bar and Cafe is right in the heart of downtown. It has a charming interior with exposed brick walls and local art. Blackwatch Cafe also has a cool, urban feel that captures Scranton’s vibe.
Are there any unique local coffee shops in Scranton known for their pastries?
Cuppa Cake Cafe is a top choice for sweet treats to go with your coffee. As the name suggests, they’re known for their cupcakes and other baked goods. Zummo’s Cafe also offers a nice selection of pastries made in-house.
The Retro Cafe has tasty lunch options like sandwiches and salads to go with your coffee. Zummo’s Cafe also serves up light fare if you’re looking for a bite to eat. Both spots are great for a casual lunch meetup.
Could you recommend a Scranton cafe that serves exceptionally strong coffee?
If you need a serious caffeine boost, head to Northern Light Espresso Bar and Cafe. They’re known for their strong espresso drinks that pack a punch.
Blackwatch Cafe also serves up bold coffee that will wake you right up.