Dunkin’ isn’t the only coffee Bostonians run on.
Boston has a grind culture similar to that of New York City or Chicago. You can feel the hustle energy in the crisp air when you walk on the streets, as passerby keep their heads down and walk with the quickest pace and slightest lean forward, as if their desire to reach where they are going is physically propelling them. This work all day, party all night mentality, however, is not done on sheer will power alone. After all, behind every great mind is a great cup of coffee.
The following is a list of five of the best coffee shops in Beantown, hit one up next time you’re in the city and in need of a good cup of joe.
Tatte Bakery & Cafe
Multiple locations
If you’re someone who values the atmosphere of the shop just as much as the taste of the coffee, then Tatte Bakery is your ideal coffee spot. With some of the most intricate décor and a very established aesthetic, Tatte gives off a patisserie meets southern charm vibe. The menu offers an array of unique options including: Shakshuka, Lamb Hash, Muesli, and a Short Rib Grilled Cheese. Tatte serves as a great experiential coffee excursion when wanting to treat yourself to some different flavors. Having 13 locations in just the city itself, a Tatte Bakery is never more than a few minutes walk away.
Gracenote
108 Lincoln St, Boston, MA 02111, United States
As one Yelp review describes, “Gracenote is a coffee shop for people who actually love coffee.” Located in both the Leather District and in Cambridge, Gracenote highlights the quality of the coffee itself and less on the add-ins. Focused on perfecting the brew in varying methods, it offers drip coffee, cold brew, lattés, cappuccinos, and more. The shop also provides a wide variety of take-home beans in unique flavors, for those who prefer the comfort of a cup in their own home. The one drawback – for people who love to set up shop and study for hours on end or enjoy a coffee date, Gracenote should be saved for a quick trip as the shop does not currently feature sit-down options.
Polcari’s Coffee
105 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113, United States
Opened in 1932 by an Italian immigrant Anthony Polcari, Polcari’s Coffee has been a hit with Bostonians for almost 100 years. Located in an adorable corner store shop with vintage signage and glazed windows, the shop sits at 105 Salem Street in the North End. Popular for its time-capsule effect, the shop has seemed to barely change in its decades of operation. Carrying a wide array of roasts from all over the world as well as spices and teas, Polcari’s brings a nostalgic charm to the modern day coffee shop and a damn good cup of coffee!
Ogawa Coffee
10 Milk St, Boston, MA 02108, United States
Originating in Kyoto, Japan, Ogawa Coffee opened its first international location in Boston in 2015. Since its opening, Ogawa Coffee has remained a favorite in the city. Unique in its dedication to the process from farm to cup, all beans are shipped directly from their source in Kyoto. Ogawa’s matcha is especially raved about online, as well as its offering of seasonal specialty drinks. Although a bit on the pricey side, many reviewers assure that this is a coffee experience well worth the price.
Pavement Coffee House
Multiple locations
Opened in 2009, Pavement Coffee House is a local, independently-owned coffee chain all throughout Boston. With eight locations in both Boston and Cambridge, the shop has acquired a large fan base in its little over a decade span of existence. Featuring a charming menu of unique breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and, of course, coffee; the shop has affordable prices that can’t be beat in Boston. It also offers a coffee subscription service for those who want to extend their brews into their daily routine. It’s especially well-known for the bagels and even features vegan options with raving reviews.
