Rochester’s coffee scene is a vibrant mix of cozy cafes and trendy roasteries. In this guide, we curante the city’s top coffeee spots where you can find the best coffee and liveliest local communities.
Each Rochester neighborhood offers a unique blend of specialty coffee spots. From perfectly brewed espressos to delicious flat whites and cold brews, Rochester’s coffee shops know their craft. Join us on a journey through Houston’s top coffee spots.
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii
9/10 (122 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-206-6574
Delicious cold brewFriendly customer serviceLight and refreshing Chai tea latte
Located in Rochester, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii may not be your typical big chain coffee spot, but it has certainly made a unique mark on the local coffee scene. Customers rave about the delicious cold brew, the friendly customer service, and the light and refreshing Chai tea latte with lavender cream topper. The sustainable mindset of the coffee shop is also highly appreciated by patrons. The staff, including one gentleman who was incredibly nice, goes above and beyond to make every customer feel welcome and valued. While there may be room for improvement, particularly in the preparation of certain drinks, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii seems to be on the right track in providing a quality coffee experience to its customers.
Lumen Coffee
9.4/10 (173 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-722-1685
Variety of coffeeFriendly serviceExceptional espresso drinks
Lumen Coffee, located in a cute spot north of town, offers a variety of delicious coffee options including drip coffee, espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos. The honey double lavender latte is a standout choice, with its strong flavor perfect for a caffeine boost on the go. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the overall experience enjoyable. While some customers have noted issues with the menu and the quality of pastries, the exceptional coffee and attention to detail in crafting espresso drinks make Lumen Coffee a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts and those looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a cup of joe.
Bravo Espresso & Gourmet
9.6/10 (83 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-281-4076
Perfectly balanced drinksFriendly and efficient staffReasonable prices
Bravo Espresso & Gourmet in Minnesota is a hidden gem that coffee lovers must visit. They serve a delicious flat white and a perfect iced brown sugar cinnamon latte at very reasonable prices. The baristas are friendly, efficient, and create a personalized environment for every customer. With high-quality espresso and drip coffee, this café is a must-visit when in downtown Minnesota.
Spyhouse Coffee Roasters | Rochester
9/10 (116 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-512-6833
Unique Drink OptionsCozy AtmosphereSeasonal Coffee Flavors
Spyhouse Coffee Roasters | Rochester is the ideal spot for those looking for a unique coffee experience in downtown Rochester. The cafe offers a cozy atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of franchise establishments, making it the perfect place to get some work done or catch up with friends. Customers rave about the Lavender & Honey Latte and the seasonal coffee flavors, providing a perfect balance of sweetness without being overpowering. The staff may not always be the fastest, but the welcoming environment and variety of drink options make Spyhouse Coffee Roasters a must-visit spot for locals and travelers alike.
Caribou Coffee
9/10 (239 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-288-6230
Efficient serviceCustomized drinksVariety of items
This Caribou Coffee location is a reliable spot to grab a quick cup of coffee even during busy times. The staff is efficient in getting orders out promptly, ensuring your drink is made to your specifications. The convenience of having items for purchase and seating available makes it a convenient stop for a caffeine boost or a moment of respite in between appointments or just to relax.
Caribou Coffee
9/10 (74 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-738-1739
Unique decorGood coffeeFast service
Caribou Coffee boasts a beautifully designed, brand new location with a mountain cabin vibe and quirky sayings adorning the walls. Despite mixed reviews on the staff, the drinks are consistently good and the coffee is worth stopping in for. The fast service, especially with food orders, is a standout feature compared to other coffee spots.
MOKA
9.4/10 (367 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-280-6652
Friendly serviceVersatile playlistQuality coffee
MOKA offers a unique coffee experience with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. The baristas, Lilly and Alexis, provide exceptional service with a smile and quick turnaround times. The playlist is always on point and kid-friendly, adding to the overall ambiance of the cafe. While some customers have noted issues with the sweetness of certain drinks, the overall experience at MOKA seems to be positive, with customers praising the quality of the coffee and the top-notch service provided by the staff.
MOKA
9.4/10 (271 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-282-6652
Variety of beveragesLarge windows upfrontFriendly staff
Located in downtown Rochester, MOKA is a modern coffee spot offering a variety of beverages, including nitro, beers, and wines. While the coffee itself is just okay for some, the large windows upfront provide a fantastic view while enjoying your drink. The acoustics, unfortunately, leave much to be desired, as the small space can quickly become suffocating with only a few tables. Additionally, there seems to be a consistent issue with flies buzzing around the food and drinks, which can be off-putting. Despite these drawbacks, MOKA’s friendly staff and hot, delicious drinks like the white chocolate mocha and iced black and white mocha with caramel drizzle have garnered praise from patrons.
MOKA
9.4/10 (157 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-258-4564
VarietyKnowledgeable staffUnique location
MOKA offers basic flavors for coffee, along with shakes, teas, juices, and sweets, catering to a variety of tastes. The employees are knowledgeable and helpful, providing recommendations and answering questions even in a busy setting. The location inside a multi-business building adds a unique and bustling atmosphere to the experience.
Old Abe Coffee Shop
9.6/10 (531 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-271-0294
Vibrant flavorsEfficient serviceCharming atmosphere
Old Abe Coffee Shop in Rochester is a charming and cozy spot that stands out for its all-vegan menu offerings. The rice bowls and banh mi options are bursting with vibrant flavors, making it a must-visit for those seeking healthier and flavorful vegan fare. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and efficient service ensure a delightful dining experience, with the option for takeout boxes available for those on the go. Despite its small size, Old Abe Coffee Shop offers outdoor seating during warmer months, making it a hidden gem in Rochester for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Cafe Steam
9.2/10 (1031 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-208-4160
Vibrant atmosphereFlavorful drink optionsComfortable seating
Cafe Steam in downtown Rochester offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of seating, live entertainment, and fun artistic touches like a photo wall. The staff is welcoming and helpful, providing a plethora of flavorful drink options like the spiced Thai. While some customers have had mixed experiences with drink quality and service, the cafe’s vibe and dedication to creating a comfortable space make it a great spot for hanging out or studying.
St. James Coffee
9.6/10 (140 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-281-3559
Delicious coffeeCozy atmosphereFriendly staff
St. James Coffee is a hidden gem where the staff are amazing, making it a great place to relax and have a cup of coffee. The coffee, like the St. Dominic’s Black & white mocha, is delicious, with the black and white syrup adding a unique touch. The cozy and welcoming environment, complete with a chapel, makes it a beautiful place to rest and enjoy a cup of coffee. While the wait time may be a bit long at times, the friendly staff and delicious drinks more than make up for it.
Café Aquí
9.4/10 (145 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-884-8376
Greenhouse SeatingDelicious ChaiLush Atmosphere
Café Aquí, attached to Sargent’s on 2nd, has proven to be a delightful addition to the neighborhood. The friendly staff serves up delicious chai and vanilla lattes, and the opportunity to enjoy your coffee surrounded by lush greenery in the greenhouse setting is truly a unique experience. The option for both indoor and outdoor seating adds to the charm of this spot, making it a must-visit destination for coffee lovers and plant enthusiasts alike.
Cafe Steam Skyway
9.4/10 (54 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-258-9060
Welcoming atmosphereEfficient serviceConsistently great coffee
Cafe Steam Skyway offers a welcoming atmosphere with efficient service and comfortable seating. The baristas are quick and friendly, making each guest feel at home. While the café itself is lovely, some customers find the lack of charm and personality as a downside. The coffee is consistently great, with options like the Flat White or the Asteroid Blues standing out. The insistent signage for mask usage adds a touch of humor, but overall, Cafe Steam Skyway provides a step up from hotel room coffee, making it a solid choice for a quick and pleasant coffee break.
Bruegger’s Bagels
9/10 (178 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-424-4777
Delicious bagel combinationsFriendly and hardworking staffConvenient locations
Bruegger’s Bagels stands out for its delicious breakfast options, friendly staff, and convenient locations. The breakfast bagels are top-notch, with crispy bacon that’s not like Subway’s fake bacon, and a wide variety of combinations to choose from. The staff, including the energetic Andy, always make the dining experience enjoyable with their hard work and kindness. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory bagel sandwich or a sweet cinnamon pickle with cheddar cheese, Bruegger’s Bagels is the go-to spot for a satisfying meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
Cafe Steam at Two Discovery Square
9.4/10 (52 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-254-3383
Giant chocolate chip biscottiSpacious and relaxing atmosphereFriendly and helpful baristas
Cafe Steam at Two Discovery Square is a favorite spot for many in Rochester, thanks to its spacious layout, ample seating, and relaxing atmosphere. The large windows offer a beautiful view, perfect for enjoying a hot cup of coffee on a snowy day. The friendly and helpful baristas provide excellent service and the variety of drinks, including the White Chocolate Moca and medium roast coffee, are top-notch. The giant biscotti with chocolate chips is a must-try item, large enough to share and delicious. With plenty of plug-ins for laptops and a quiet vibe, this spot is ideal for studying or just unwinding with a good cup of coffee.
Mezza9 Cafe & Desserts
9/10 (140 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-322-6127
Comfortable seatingImaginative drinksHigh tea service
Mezza9 Cafe & Desserts is a sparkling gem in downtown Rochester, providing a bright and comforting atmosphere for visitors. The cafe offers a wide variety of delicious desserts and imaginative drinks, catering to those with dietary restrictions by offering gluten-free options and dairy-free milks. One of the highlights includes their high tea service, complete with beautiful teapots and drink ware, setting them apart from other coffee spots. Despite some mixed reviews regarding service and menu discrepancies, Mezza9 Cafe & Desserts remains a cozy and delightful spot to enjoy a sweet treat or a well-crafted latte.
Great Harvest Bread Co.
9.4/10 (428 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-286-1101
Outstanding serviceDelicious fresh breadVariety of baked goods
Great Harvest Bread Co. on Broadway is known for its outstanding service and delicious fresh bread options. The team’s communication during busy hours is exceptional, ensuring a smooth experience for customers. The variety of bread, sandwiches, and baked goods, such as Challah rolls and Pumpkin Chocolate Chip bread, make it a go-to bakery for many. The simple, wholesome, and delicious baked goods offer a taste of perfection, while the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff add to the overall experience.
MOKA
9.6/10 (76 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-322-6062
Diverse menuExpertly crafted drinksChic design
MOKA is a hidden gem in the city, offering a chic design and welcoming spaces along with expertly crafted coffee and a diverse menu. The baristas are friendly and accommodating, making it a must-visit spot for coffee lovers looking for quality and style.
Hollandberry Pannekoeken
9/10 (1904 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 507-322-6600
Team-based serviceHigh-quality, satisfying foodCheerful, inviting atmosphere
Hollandberry Pannekoeken provides a unique dining experience with a team-based approach to customer service, where all needs are anticipated by the staff. The menu offers a good variety of breakfast, sandwich, and dinner options at an average price point. The food is high-quality and satisfying, with particular highlights being the light and fluffy pannekoeken, fresh and juicy fruit, and creamy milkshakes. The staff at Hollandberry Pannekoeken are not only friendly and knowledgeable but also efficient and dedicated to ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The atmosphere is cheerful and inviting, making it a favorite spot for families and individuals alike.