What better way to judge the state of affairs in your city than a roundup of local coffeehouses. Whether you aim to hold a meeting, gather with friends or spend some quiet time with a tasty beverage and a good book, Memphis offers a wide variety of enticing spots. We offer a few choices to satisfy your caffeine craving from downtown to east Memphis. With hot cortado in hand, buy some beans, play some chess or take in a sermon. There’s a coffee shop for everyone!
City and State wins the multi-tasking award. Plug in your laptop, order a drink and peruse the wide variety of unique gift items, including their line of Boy Smells candles. An ideal stop after taking in a pilates class at Core Collective Broad.
2625 Broad Avenue
Otherlands offers something for everyone. Hippie hangout (with fish tanks and secret gift shop) meets cozy workspace, including lamplit desks. Hang out on the vine-covered patio and tune in for live music on the weekends.
641 Cooper Street
Memphis Chess Club is the rec room of coffee shops. On a recent Saturday, I witnessed a son teaching his mother to play as well as several groups of young adult chess enthusiasts. You don’t have to play chess, of course – there’s a full menu, cozy seating and a piano!
195 Madison Avenue
Belltower takes academic top honors. Located in the Highland Strip near the University of Memphis, it offers plenty of spots to get your study on. Leave with their eponymous coffee beans to bring the flavor home and visit their sister spot at Shelby Farms after a brisk walk around Patriot Lake.
525 S. Highland
The Hub cup ‘a joe may have you singing praises. Located adjacent to Mission Church, it feels like the virtual work community has found its haven in east Memphis. A variety of seating arrangements, including a conference room, provide ample opportunity for inspiration.
6000 Briarcrest Avenue
Ramblin Joes’ is the little brother of coffee shops. This pint-sized grindhouse has a small amount of indoor and outdoor seating, but most of their business is drive-thru. Don’t let the long line fool you, though: the barristas will have you on your way before you can say “latte!” Look for their new location on Sam Cooper.
4610 Poplar Avenue