The Best Coffee in Birmingham and Shops You’ll Love
Looking for the best coffee in Birmingham? Let me help you out. I love coffee, not just for the extra boost of energy that it can give, but also for the taste. That is, if you have the right cup of coffee.
Birmingham, Alabama is home to dozens of local shops that offer great coffee and also serve as a gathering place for fellow coffee drinkers or remote workers.
As a lifelong Alabamian and a passionate explorer of local places with purpose, I’ve had the chance to sip my way through dozens of coffee shops across the Magic City. In this guide, I’m sharing not only the best coffee shops in Birmingham but also the stories, spaces, and specialties that make them worth a visit.
You’ll find:
- Hidden gems and historic cafés with deep Birmingham roots
- Neighborhood favorites for working, studying, or meeting friends
- Shops brewing ethically sourced or locally roasted coffee
- Instagram-worthy interiors and seasonal drink specials
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What are the best coffee shops in Birmingham?
If you are searching for the best coffee in Birmingham, I have some suggestions for you. Each of these coffee shops offers a variety of delicious coffees that will have you coming back for more:
Alicia’s Coffee in the A.G. Gaston Motel
Address: 1511 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Tucked inside the historic A.G. Gaston Motel, Alicia’s Coffee is a space steeped in legacy and intention. With its sleek, modern interior and welcoming atmosphere, the shop serves as a tribute to Birmingham’s past while fueling its present.
Visitors can enjoy locally roasted coffee, specialty drinks, and fresh pastries just steps away from one of the city’s most significant civil rights landmarks. Whether you’re stopping in before a tour or meeting a friend in the courtyard, Alicia’s is a powerful reminder that community and culture are always worth brewing.
Church Street Coffee and Books
Address: 81 Church St., Mountain Brook
Located in Mountain Brook, Church Street Coffee offers more than just great coffee. With its cozy ambiance and an extensive collection of books, it’s the perfect spot to relax and indulge in a delicious cup of specialty coffee. Don’t forget to try their famous “Breakup Cookie” for an added treat!
Seeds Coffee Company
Address: 174 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood
For those who appreciate a welcoming atmosphere and community-focused coffee shops, Seeds Coffee Co. is a must-visit. With its location in Homewood and emphasis on supporting farmers and creating sustainable relationships, Seeds offers excellent coffee and a chance to make a positive impact with each sip.
Red Cat Coffee House
Address: 1201 11th Ave. S., Birmingham
Tucked away in the artistic neighborhood of Highland Park, Red Cat Coffeehouse boasts a unique environment that draws in both locals and visitors alike. Their specialty-grade coffees and signature drinks are sure to please even the most discerning coffee connoisseurs.
Red Mountain Expresso
Address: 2601 18th Street S., Homewood
Located in the heart of Birmingham, Red Mountain Expresso is a hidden gem for coffee enthusiasts. This locally-owned drive-thru express coffee shop takes pride in its meticulous selection of coffee beans and precise brewing techniques, resulting in a cup of coffee that is nothing short of exceptional.
O’Henry’s Coffees
Address: 2915 Highland Ave., Birmingham
O’Henry’s Coffees has been a beloved fixture in the Birmingham coffee scene since 1993. With multiple locations throughout the city, O’Henry’s is known for its commitment to quality and exceptional service. Step into any of their cozy coffee shops and you’ll be greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans. From their expertly crafted espresso drinks to their flavorful brewed coffees, O’Henry’s Coffees offers a wide range of options to satisfy every coffee lover’s taste buds.
Santos Coffee
Address: 4700 Cahaba River Rd., Vestavia Hills
Santos Coffee is a true hidden gem, tucked away in a quaint corner of Birmingham. (They have multiple locations around the city.) It’s a great place to go for a good cup of coffee. This small, independent coffee shop boasts a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a cozy spot to sit and enjoy a coffee with friends or get some work done. Santos Coffee takes pride in their carefully selected beans and their dedication to delivering a delightful coffee experience. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a specialty drink, Santos Coffee offers a range of options to suit your taste preferences.
Baba Java Coffee
Address: 4730 Chace Circle, Birmingham
Baba Java Coffee is located in Hoover. Its cozy atmosphere makes it one of the best spots to get a great cup of coffee or a chai latte. In addition to some of your favorite caffeinated drinks, you can also enjoy some live music on special occasions. (Be sure to follow them on Instagram to be in the know!)
More of the Best Coffee in Birmingham
Narrowing the list was tough because many places in the Magic City have great coffee. Here are some of my other favorites:
Domestique Coffee – known for their ethically sourced beans and great atmosphere.
Grounds – cozy atmosphere and great coffee.
Frothy Monkey – delicious coffee and beautiful building.
Bandido Coffee Parlor – Quick service, great atmosphere.
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee – Amazing service, great coffee, friendly staff and touching mission. 12
Birmingham’s coffee scene is thriving, with a diverse array of local coffee shops offering unique environments, excellent service, and, most importantly, fantastic coffee. Whether you’re exploring the magic of Pepper Place or enjoying the green spaces of Railroad Park, there’s a perfect place to satisfy your caffeine fix.
So go ahead, grab your favorite caffeinated drink, cozy up in one of these inviting coffee shops, and let your taste buds be tantalized by the delightful flavors Birmingham has to offer.
Remember, the next time you find yourself in the Birmingham area, don’t miss the chance to experience the city’s best coffee spots. Your love for coffee, appreciation for quality, and enjoyment of the vibrant community will make your visit an unforgettable one.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. We encourage readers to support local businesses and check individual coffee shop websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on hours, offerings, and any safety guidelines they may have in place.
What determines a good cup of coffee?
Choosing a good cup of coffee can be a subjective experience, as taste preferences vary from person to person. However, here are some factors to consider when selecting a quality cup of coffee:
Freshness
Look for coffee that is freshly roasted. Freshly roasted coffee beans tend to have a more vibrant flavor and aroma. Check for the roast date on the packaging or ask the barista at a coffee shop when the beans were roasted.
Quality of Beans
Opt for high-quality coffee beans. Arabica beans are generally considered superior in taste and aroma compared to Robusta beans. Consider the origin of the beans as well, as different regions produce distinct flavors and profiles.
Roast Level
Coffee beans are typically roasted to different levels, such as light, medium, or dark roast. The roast level affects the flavor and intensity of the coffee. Lighter roasts tend to have brighter and more nuanced flavors, while darker roasts often have bolder and more robust flavors.
Brewing Method
Different brewing methods bring out different flavors in coffee. Consider how you prefer your coffee brewed—whether it’s through a pour-over, French press, espresso machine, or other methods—and choose coffee beans that suit your preferred brewing style.
Single Origin or Blend
Single-origin coffees come from a specific region or farm, showcasing the unique characteristics of that particular location. Blends combine beans from different regions to create a balanced and consistent flavor profile. Decide whether you prefer the distinct flavors of single-origin beans or the harmonious blend of different beans.
Personal Taste Preferences
Everyone has different taste preferences when it comes to coffee. Experiment with different flavor profiles, such as fruity, chocolatey, nutty, or floral, to discover what suits your palate best. Consider trying different coffees from various regions and roasters to find your preferred flavor profile.
Specialty Coffee Shops
Visit specialty coffee shops or local roasters that prioritize quality and expertise. These establishments often source and roast their beans with care, providing a wider range of unique and high-quality coffee options.
Recommendations and Reviews
Seek recommendations from friends, coffee enthusiasts, or online reviews. Hearing about others’ positive experiences with a specific coffee brand or coffee shop can give you an idea of what to expect.
Finding a good cup of coffee is a personal journey, and it may take some trial and error to discover your preferences. Enjoy the process, be open to trying new flavors, and embrace the diversity of the coffee world.
What are some reasons to visit coffee shops?
Coffee shops offer more than just a place to grab a drink. They provide a cozy and inviting space for various activities. Here are some things you can do at coffee shops:
Enjoy a Cup of Coffee
Of course, the primary reason to visit a coffee shop is to savor a delicious cup of coffee. Whether you prefer a classic black coffee, an espresso-based drink, or a specialty concoction, coffee shops are the perfect place to indulge in your favorite caffeinated beverage.
Read a Book
If you’re looking for a great place to read, coffee shops often provide a relaxed and quiet atmosphere. This makes them an ideal setting to dive into a good book. Bring along your favorite novel, a self-help book, or even a magazine and enjoy some quality reading time accompanied by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Work or Study
Several people take advantage of coffee shops as a place to work or study. With the availability of free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating, they offer a change of environment from traditional offices or libraries. Settle in with your laptop or study materials and take advantage of the coffee shop’s ambiance to boost your productivity.
Socialize with Friends
Coffee shops are great meeting places for catching up with friends or even hosting casual business meetings. Grab a table, order some coffee, and enjoy engaging conversations or collaborative work sessions in a relaxed and comfortable environment.
Engage in Creative Pursuits
Coffee shops can be inspiring spaces for creative individuals. Whether you’re an artist sketching in a notebook, a writer working on your next masterpiece, or a musician brainstorming lyrics, the cozy and artistic atmosphere of a coffee shop can provide the right ambiance to tap into your creativity.
Attend Events or Open Mic Nights
Many coffee shops host events such as live music performances, poetry readings, or open mic nights. Check the shop’s schedule or social media page to see if there are any upcoming events that pique your interest. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy some entertainment while sipping on your favorite brew.
People-watch
If you enjoy observing the world around you, coffee shops are fantastic places for people-watching. Grab a seat by the window, sip your coffee, and take in the sights and sounds of the bustling coffee shop, from baristas crafting drinks to fellow customers engaging in conversation.
Remember, the possibilities at coffee shops are endless. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, productivity, socialization, or simply a delightful cup of coffee, coffee shops offer a welcoming environment that caters to a variety of activities.
