15 Best Coffee Shops in Rochester NY

By:

JP

Last Updated:

Rochester, New York’s vibrant coffee scene perfectly complements the city’s historic charm and modern innovation. From cozy cafes to trendy roasteries, Rochester offers diverse options for coffee lovers.

Throughout the city, standout coffee shops are dedicated to sourcing high-quality beans, perfecting roasting techniques, and crafting exceptional drinks. Each establishment offers a unique ambiance and specialty beverages, ensuring something for every taste and preference.

Whether you are seeking a quiet, relaxing spot or a lively gathering place, Rochester’s skilled baristas, top-notch ingredients, and welcoming environments create the perfect coffee experience. Exploring the city’s thriving coffee scene is essential to discovering all that Rochester has to offer.

15 Best Coffee Shops in Rochester NY
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The Best Coffee Shops in Rochester

Rochester’s coffee scene embraces everything from industrial-chic venues serving meticulously crafted brews to homey, family-owned coffee shops that fill the air with the comforting aroma of freshly baked pastries and classic roasts.

We are here to guide you through some of Rochester’s best coffee shops, providing a glimpse into their ambiances, standout brews, and integral roles in the vibrant fabric of this city.

Fuego Coffee Roasters

Fuego Coffee Roasters is a delightful local coffee shop in Rochester, NY. As a micro-roaster, they’re passionate about connecting Rochester coffee lovers with the global coffee community.

Head over to Fuego for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy fresh-roasted coffee, espresso, and a selection of delicious pastries. The friendly and knowledgeable staff ensures you feel right at home while sipping your favorite beverage.

As a coffee roaster, Fuego Coffee emphasizes the quality and flavor of its beans, sourced from farmers worldwide. They are dedicated to a memorable experience by offering unique drinks like Uncle Marble and their signature vanilla latte. Fuego Coffee Roasters is the perfect spot for your next coffee break, paired with freshly baked treats or a light lunch.

Ugly Duck Coffee

Ugly Duck Coffee, located in the heart of Rochester, NY, is an inviting and cozy coffee shop that offers a delicious variety of coffee and espresso drinks and showcases local art, adding an extra layer of charm to the atmosphere.

You’ll love sitting down and enjoying your favorite caffeinated beverage while admiring the beauty of the art that adorns their walls. The staff here are known for their expertise and can create delightful espresso drinks that’ll leave you craving more.

If you’re looking for a snack with your coffee, Ugly Duck Coffee offers a selection of fresh pastries, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. To make your experience even more enjoyable, the coffee shop offers free wifi, so you can work or catch up with friends online in a comfortable and serene environment.

Java’s Cafe

Java’s Cafe, a cherished destination for coffee enthusiasts in Rochester, NY, has been serving its loyal customers since 1992. Remarkably, there are two Java Cafes in town – one located on Gibbs St and the other within Rochester Public Market. The latter operates exclusively on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

At Java’s Cafe, the delightful fragrance of locally roasted coffee greets you, creating a memorable experience. The unique ambiance, adorned with captivating artwork, enhances your morning or afternoon pick-me-up. Alongside its diverse range of ethically sourced coffee, Java’s also offers organic tea and refreshing smoothies.

But Java’s is more than just exceptional coffee. They have delectable baked goods, pastries, and breakfast options to complement your beverage perfectly. Whether you choose an outdoor table or a game of pool inside, the vibrant energy of this bustling cafe immerses you. A visit to Java’s Cafe revitalizes and connects you to the local community of Rochester.

Glen Edith Coffee Roasters

Glen Edith Coffee Roasters is a beloved coffee shop in Rochester, NY, known for its flavorful and expertly roasted coffee. You’ll immediately notice the warm atmosphere and welcoming staff as you enter their cozy space.

With a keen focus on serving excellent pour-over coffee, you can trust that their knowledgeable baristas will prepare a delicious cup just for you. In addition to their coffee offerings, they also serve a selection of mouth-watering pastries and treats to delight your taste buds.

Glen Edith is a local coffee roaster dedicated to supporting the Rochester community through its passion for quality coffee and espresso. It takes pride in sourcing, roasting, and brewing its beans with care, ensuring a truly memorable coffee experience.

If you want to bring some of their expertise home, you can also purchase their freshly roasted coffee beans, perfect for crafting your cups of bliss.

Union Place Coffee Roasters

Union Place Coffee Roasters is a boutique coffee roasting house in Rochester, NY. It is dedicated to sourcing green coffee beans from socially responsible importers and obsessing over every detail involved in crafting the perfect cup of coffee.

Roasting in small batches allows attention to quality and taste, which you can’t find everywhere. Their friendly staff and peaceful atmosphere make it a cozy spot to enjoy a good cup of espresso, tea, or French coffee.

As a local business, Union Place Coffee Roasters takes pride in its community involvement and commitment to serving home coffee brewers fresh, small-batch beans roasted in-house. Union Place Coffee Roasters sets itself apart as one of the best coffee shops in Rochester, NY, emphasizing crafting harmonious blends for a great-tasting beverage.

Sips Coffee & Cafe

If you’re looking for a cozy coffee shop in Rochester, NY, look no further than Sips Coffee & Cafe. This welcoming spot at 149 Pattonwood Drive is all about coffee and community.

Focusing on making its customers smile, Sips Coffee & Cafe provides a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. It is the perfect place to unwind with a cup of coffee or tea, catch up on work, or simply soak in the local art displayed on the walls.

Not only do they serve a variety of coffee beverages, but they also offer a selection of tasty food options to satisfy your cravings. They champion all that is local, sharing their passion for coffee and community with their customers. Sips Coffee & Cafe is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Canaltown Coffee Roasters

If you’re looking for a cozy, local coffee roaster in Rochester, NY, Canaltown Coffee Roasters is the perfect spot. This charming cafe is known for its freshly roasted coffee and welcoming atmosphere.

As you step inside, the aroma of freshly brewed espresso and roasted beans will instantly make you feel at home. From espresso drinks to an array of drip coffee options, Canaltown Coffee Roasters has something to offer every coffee lover.

The staff at Canaltown Coffee Roasters are passionate about providing the best coffee experience for their customers. With years of experience in the coffee industry, they are committed to delivering excellent customer service and exceptional coffee.

The laid-back ambiance and the presence of a friendly staff truly make this cafe stand out in Rochester. You’ll want to make this your new go-to spot for your daily coffee fix.

Best Rochester cofffee shops
The Freddie-Sue Bridge of Rochester, New York

Coffee Connection

Coffee Connection, a community-focused coffee shop, has two locations in Rochester, NY. One is on South Avenue, and the other is on Miracle Mile Drive. Their mission is to provide sustainable and fair-trade coffee while positively impacting the local community.

They go above and beyond by offering employment opportunities for women in recovery from addiction, creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

At Coffee Connection, you’ll experience a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place to enjoy their high-quality coffee, tea, and delicious baked goods. What sets them apart is their dedication to environmental and social responsibility, making it a destination that combines great coffee with a meaningful cause.

Whether you visit their South Avenue or Miracle Mile Drive location, you’ll support a coffee shop that makes a difference in the community.

Founders Cafe

Founders Cafe is a trendy coffeehouse in The Academy Building in downtown Rochester. Known for its delightful coffee, tea, breakfast, brunch options, and delicious desserts, it’s an excellent choice for a morning pick-me-up or afternoon break.

Their award-winning micro roast coffees are perfectly complemented by freshly baked goods, handmade soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and paninis. Made with only the freshest ingredients and artisan-baked bread, you’ll savor every bite.

Not only does Founders Cafe provide an exceptional coffee experience, but the atmosphere is inviting and friendly, making it a perfect spot to relax or meet up with friends. As you enjoy your visit, the attentive and knowledgeable staff will ensure you feel well cared for. Venture out to Founders Cafe for an unforgettable coffee shop experience in the heart of Rochester, NY.

The Chai Guy on Park Ave

If you want to try some delicious chai and specialty drinks, The Chai Guy on Park Ave in Rochester, NY, is the place to be! This local spot offers hot and iced beverages and a variety of baked goods, cookies, and snacks.

Its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect place to catch up with a friend or take a break from your busy day.

At The Chai Guy, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds with their selection of chai-tastic drinks. You can even purchase some of their merchandise online if you love their offerings. Don’t forget to check out their Facebook page for updates and information about upcoming events!

POP ROC

If you’re looking for a unique and vibrant coffee shop in Rochester, NY, POP ROC is the place for you! Offering more than just great coffee, POP ROC prides itself on sharing joy through food, service, and one-of-a-kind experiences.

As you step into this colorful space, you’ll be delighted by the mixture of pop culture, comic books, and exciting collectibles waiting to be explored.

In addition to serving delicious coffee and tasty snacks, POP ROC is also a hub for local art and entertainment. The welcoming atmosphere encourages patrons to engage with their community, spark creativity, and enjoy a safe space where everyone is welcome. While savoring your favorite brew, immerse yourself in the world of comics and connect with fellow coffee lovers and enthusiasts.

Gloria Jean’s Coffees

A local gem in Rochester, NY, Gloria Jean’s Coffees has been serving its loyal customers for over 28 years. This cozy coffee shop is located at the Mall at Greece Ridge, perfect for refueling while shopping nearby.

Known for their expertly crafted hot and cold drinks, Gloria Jean’s Coffees boasts award-winning coffee and espresso beans. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and a great selection of vegan options, you’ll enjoy the specialty drinks!

The atmosphere at Gloria Jean’s Coffees is friendly and inviting, making it an ideal spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a quiet break with your favorite book. The cafe also offers diverse smoothies, juices, and bakery items to please your palate. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you find the perfect drink to satisfy your caffeine craving—or indulge in a sweet treat!

Flat Iron Cafe

Flat Iron Cafe is a cozy coffee shop located in Rochester, NY. It offers a warm atmosphere to enjoy freshly brewed coffee and mouth-watering pastries.

As a local gem, this charming cafe is perfect for caffeine fixes and brunch cravings. You can look forward to indulging in their menu items, which are crafted with love using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

When you step into Flat Iron Cafe, you’ll be met with friendly staff ready to assist you with your order and make your experience delightful. Whether grabbing a cup of joe to go or settling in for a brunch date, this is a must-visit spot in Rochester for all coffee and brunch enthusiasts.

Boulder Coffee Co Cafe and Lounge

Boulder Coffee Co. is a fabulous cafe and lounge located in Rochester, NY. As a hip and relaxed spot in the South Wedge neighborhood, you can enjoy their delicious direct-flame roasted coffee and espresso while soaking in the ambiance.

This Rochester coffee shop doubles as a music venue, where you can experience live performances and events from local artists and those passing through town.

Boulder Coffee Co offers an exceptional coffee selection and a variety of tasty options for your taste buds. Indulge in a turmeric latte, cold brew, iced coffee, soy latte, or hot chocolate, or get a boost with an espresso shot. Complement your drink with a choice of sandwiches, making for an ideal spot to grab a bite in a laid-back setting.

RoCoCo Coffee Co

RoCoCo Coffee Co is a feel-good coffee shop in the heart of downtown Rochester, NY, at the Mercantile. This warm and welcoming cafe is known for its inspiring selection of ethically sourced coffee, espresso, and delectable local pastries. Its inviting atmosphere creates the perfect setting for relaxing and enjoying a delicious and unforgettable artisanal coffee experience.

Their coffee is crafted with care to satisfy both the seasoned coffee connoisseur and first-time visitor. Whether you prefer smooth and rich, fruity and light, or anything in between, RoCoCo Coffee Co. truly has something for everyone.

Beyond that, their commitment to sourcing their coffee and pastries locally means that you’re supporting the local economy and enjoying some of the freshest and highest-quality products available.

Wherever you are in Rochester, NY, there will always be plenty of coffee shops nearby, so it won’t be hard to find one. Our list of the best coffee shops in Rochester will help you make the right choice.

Hopefully, you will visit at least one or two of the Rochester coffee shops we recommend.

Remember, the next time you get your phone out to search for the best coffee near me in Rochester, return to this page and try another of our recommendations.

Check out the best coffee shops in New York State in the other places in the state we cover.

Don’t forget to check out our selection of coffee shops in Buffalo and West Village.

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