Top coffee shops in the United States require a level of uniqueness, and most certainly artisan quality, to stand out amongst the crowd these days. Georgia is concentrated with craft coffee creators that not only execute lattes and bean roasting seamlessly but also offer an array of treats and snacks. The following coffee shops have that extra edge that makes them worth a detour. House baked cakes, sustainably sourced beans, richly brewed drinks, and an alluring atmosphere has earned these establishments a spot on Georgia’s best coffee shops list.
Drip-Thru Coffee, Multiple Locations
Drip-Thru Coffee has two locations in Georgia, College Park, which is near the Atlanta airport, and Stockbridge. Built to resemble the drive-up coffee shacks in the Northwest, Drip-Thru is totally unique in the South. Not only is it fun to make a run to this pint-sized shop, but the coffee is also sustainably sourced from fair trade growers and deliciously roasted locally. All the classics are handcrafted to order, and the smoothies and specialty seasonal drinks are all served in compostable cups.
Lucy Lu’s Coffee Cafe, Jackson
Lucy Lu’s Coffee Shop is located off the beaten path, in the little ole town of Jackson. The shop was at first an unusual attribute for a location offering few artisanal treats but is now joined by a quaint yogurt shop and brick oven pizza kitchen. Lucy Lu’s kept the aesthetics of the historic-industrial building in which it resides, with brick walls, wooden floors and metal accents included. Since Melvald’s and Radio Shack from Stranger Things sits across the street from the Lucy Lu’s, you better bet they have some “killer” themed drinks like the “The Upside Down”, bloody red “Demogorgon” and the waffle topped “011”. Round it out with a southern pimento cheese sandwich or freshly baked blueberry biscuit.
Queen Bee Coffee Company, McDonough
Queen Bee Coffee Company is adorably set in a cottage off the McDonough Square, and they roast all their fair trade, organic, bird-friendly, rain forest certified beans onsite in a small batch drum. So yes, inside the cozy shop smells incredible. They know their farmers on a first-name basis and even drill wells in countries in need of a clean water source. So come snuggle up with a book and giant hot latte inside, or come on a night where they host a live musician in the eclectic outdoor space. Keep in mind, Queen Bee is closed on Sunday and Monday.
White Birch Provisions, Clayton
White Birch Provisions is located in the North Georgia Mountains, in quaint Clayton, and is an overall great place to stop for local goodies. Coffee beans are roasted just outside of Atlanta and make for some smooth, bold espresso drinks. An in house baker crafts biscuits, pastries and other treat daily. Wines and local cheeses are available in the farm room for a charcuterie snack after or before your pick me up.
Cafe Rothem, Duluth
Cafe Rothem in Duluth exudes an interesting elegance with its welcoming atmosphere and creative brews and treats. Enjoy watching an old fashioned siphon drip filter your coffee right at the table, or try a green plum tea slushy—both traditional and refreshingly different drinks fill the menu. Food items include a variety of unbelievable waffles stuffed with ingredients like brown sugar and chopped nuts. Munch on sandwiches, rice bowls and mammoth Korean shaved ice with elaborate toppings while reading a book from the several surrounding shelves, or attending a live poetry reading.
3585 Peachtree Industrial Blvd #128, Duluth, GA 30096, USA— +1 470-908-2111
The Rook and Pawn, Athens
The Rook and Pawn has many great contenders in Athens, but comes out on top with its atmosphere and food. Proclaimed as a board game cafe, you better bet there’s an abundance of fun classics to play with friends while enjoying a tasty drink. To be specific, around 400 tabletop games are there for the taking. Sip on the “Darth” Roast, or medium-strength Checkmate, which can be crafted into a variety of coffee house classics. Food selections are extensive, from hearty avocado, or grilled cheese sammies, to cheese plates and gluten-free desserts.
294 W Washington St #300, Athens, GA 30601, USA— +1 706-543-5040
Dr. Bombay's Underwater Tea Party, Atlanta
Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party takes the cake thanks to its snug and eccentric environment of mismatched decor, which remains whimsically elegant. Known for the high tea experience with dainty English snacks and teas, the coffee stands center stage as well. Roasted at French Truck Coffee Co, the drip coffee has a full, rounded flavor and pairs equally as well with quiches and scones. Dr. Bombay’s is so incredibly playful and unusual, you’ll leave feeling as if you’ve dined with the Mad Hatter.
1645 McLendon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, USA— +1 404-474-1402
