Top 3 Coffee Shops in Austin
On any normal day, I consume about 32oz of coffee in the morning. It’s an essential part of my morning routine, and when I’m on vacation, it’s even more crucial that I get my caffeine kick. Latte, Americano, hot chocolate, no matter your beverage choice, you’ll find something of your liking at these Austin cafes!
Cuvee Coffee Bar
Walking along East 6th, the marquee sign and the arrows on the sidewalk will lead you directly into this vibrant and fun coffee shop. When you open the door you’ll immediately notice the bright blue vector icon mural on the adjacent wall which lights up the room in a way you’ve never seen before.
This neighborhood is full of young professionals so you’ll most likely walk into a room full of millennials sipping their fancy coffee while debating opposing sides of the latest political policy or typing away on their macbooks as deadlines for school/work fast approach.
But if you’re visiting like me, grab your favorite caffeinated beverage from the kind baristas at the bar, grab a table by the vibrant wall, and let your eyes wander to the other unique walls in the cafe. Take a look at the wide variety of beans they have on their shelves, and take one home if you have the space in your luggage. These flavors are truly worth having in your own kitchen.
In the corner you’ll find a giant wooden Connect-4 game board. Make sure you ask the barista if you can play, and have a friend help bring it over to your table. Think carefully about your strategy and hopefully you’ll take home those bragging rights!
Flat Track Coffee
A cafe and a bicycle shop all under the same roof? Why yes, you’ll find this interesting combination at Flat Track Coffee in this up-and-coming neighborhood in East Austin.
The space is a well-curated, industrial and wood style cafe. Several long wood tables and a couple of booths line the space leading to the back of the cafe where you can find a bar to sit at if you choose. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to witness the roasters busy at work just behind the bar. From roasting to bagging, the entire process is open for all to see, and whether you’re passionate about coffee or you just enjoy learning about the bean to cup process, witnessing these master roasters work their magic is truly a treat. It’s cool to think that the coffee you have in your hands was just roasted in this very space several days ago!
While you’re there, wander over to the bike shop and take a look at the bikes they have on sale and watch as the repairmen get their hands greasy fixing up the gears on the bikes.
Greater Goods Coffee Roasters
Clean, simple, minimalist. That’s how I would describe the decor and mood of this coffee shop. The opaque windows on the ceiling lets in plenty of light for a open and happy feel. The back lit bookshelf filled with hardcover novels and simple trinkets lined the walls of the lounge section, and provided a sophisticated feel to the cozy room. There are plenty of tables and chair inside and out, and makes for a great place for a coffee date with friends or a serious meeting with a business partner. They have a small selection of goodies in their pasty case as well as a couple of cold bottled beverages. Walk to the back of the cafe and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the roasters in full swing. The main roasting plant is across town, but this location provides you a little view into the coffee making process.
Curcuma
(Honorable Mention)
This food truck provided healthy food options for those that have dietary restrictions, but also provides delicious healthy drinks if you’re on the go. I stopped in and grabbed myself a refreshing lemonade - though this one was unique.
They offered a activated-charcoal drink and I was thrown off when she handed me my drink. Instead of the innocent looking yellow beverage we’re so used to, I was shocked to received a black beverage so dark that I couldn’t even see the ice cubes floating around in it.
Not only was this lemonade the most aesthetically interesting thing I’ve consumed, it was also pretty delicious. Also, I hear activated charcoal is meant to help your kidney function be helping clear out undigested toxins! Whoa!
