San Jose’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 San Jose neighborhood offers a unique blend of specialty coffee spots. From perfectly brewed espressos to delicious flat whites and cold brews, San Jose’s coffee shops know their craft. Join us on a journey through Houston’s top coffee spots.
Voltaire Coffee Roasters
9.2/10 (502 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-747-9697
Excellent coffeeCozy atmosphereFriendly staff
Nestled in downtown San Jose near the convention center, Voltaire Coffee Roasters offers a small but cozy space for a quick coffee fix. The friendly staff serves up excellent coffee with a European-like flavor that sets it apart from mainstream chains. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for enjoying a cup of java and people-watching by the window. The limited seating may not be ideal for a long work session, but it’s definitely a spot worth visiting if you’re in the area.
Philz Coffee
9.2/10 (1774 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-971-4212
Unique blendsPassionate baristasVibrant atmosphere
After reading through various customer reviews, it is evident that Philz Coffee at 118 Paseo De San Antonio in San Jose, CA is truly a standout spot in the coffee scene. With a unique variety of flavors and a passion for crafting creative beverages, Philz offers a special coffee experience not found elsewhere on the West Coast. The combination of their signature blends, like the house blend Tesora, with quality ingredients like cream and mint mojito truly set them apart. The vibrant atmosphere, complete with a blend of old school and trending music, adds to the allure of this establishment, making it a must-visit spot for any coffee lover looking for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Nirvana Soul Coffee
9.4/10 (570 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-564-6617
Flavorful lattesCozy ambiancePlenty of seating options
Nirvana Soul Coffee stands out as a unique spot with a strong coffee program and a cozy ambiance. The sweet and flavorful lattes are a highlight, although those who prefer less sweetness may want to opt for a simpler drink. The interior space offers plenty of seating options, including a top floor loft area with a skylight, creating a comfortable environment to enjoy your food and drinks. While the street parking can be a challenge, the overall experience at Nirvana Soul Coffee makes it a worthwhile visit.
Voyager-San Pedro Square
9.4/10 (443 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-899-6166
Unique latte flavorsMASSIVE seating areaDelicious pastries
Voyager-San Pedro Square is a standout coffee spot in the South Bay Area. The unique latte flavors are rich and the overnight oats come highly recommended. The massive seating area offers a relaxing spot to enjoy your coffee and pastries. The vibes are just right, never overcrowded, with super cool decor. The strawberry lemonade is a must-try, and the chai latte is delicious. The Chai Latte is the perfect balance of spices and creamy milk, making it a comforting drink to warm you up. The cozy ambiance and friendly baristas make Voyager a top choice for coffee enthusiasts and those looking for a tasty treat. The Dark Chocolate, Raspberry, and Rose Water Iced Latte is a must-have, and the pastry selection is delightful. Voyager stands out for its unique and dreamy coffee drinks, flavorful pastries, and friendly service.
Hannah Coffee
9/10 (488 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-971-1207
Great breakfast sandwichesDelicious pastriesGood whole ingredients
Hannah Coffee offers great breakfast sandwiches made with good whole ingredients that are not soggy, along with delicious pastries like croissants and cupcakes. The food is a highlight here, with the breakfast options being tasty and satisfying, making it a great spot to grab a quick and flavorful bite.
Academic Coffee
9.2/10 (677 reviews)
Unique coffee flavorsTasty pastriesOutdoor seating
Academic Coffee is a cozy spot near SJSU offering a variety of unique coffee flavors and tasty pastries. The mango matcha latte was fruity and refreshing, and the pandan latte had a good balance of sweetness, although some customers wished for a stronger pandan flavor. With options like a piloncillo latte and pastries from Neighbor Bakehouse, this is definitely one of the best coffee shops in the South Bay. The atmosphere can get busy, especially on weekends, but the outdoor seating provides a pleasant setting to enjoy your drink and soak up some sunshine.
Chromatic Coffee Co.
9/10 (507 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-320-2086
Unique hand poursExtensive roasted beansIndustrial-chic decor
Chromatic Coffee Co. offers a unique and almost unconventional coffee experience in the Bay Area. The cozy and chill vibes inside exude creativity with an industrial-chic decor, perfect for casual catch-ups with friends. The extensive hand pour options, like the yellow fruit with its rich, distinct floral aroma, and the wide selection of roasted beans, make it a go-to spot for coffee enthusiasts of all kinds. The innovative coffee selection, such as the El Salvador blend with pronounced citrus notes, adds to the appeal. While the wait time and loud music may not be for everyone, the overall experience of Chromatic Coffee Co. is definitely worth a visit.
Roy’s Station Coffee & Tea
9.2/10 (960 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-286-2236
Artsy decorOutdoor patioVegan treats
Roy’s Station Coffee & Tea in Japan Town is a charming spot with an artsy decor that features gas station and urban memorabilia. The outdoor patio provides a perfect setting for enjoying their excellent coffee and tea selection, along with a variety of vegan, nut-free, and gluten-free treats like brownies. The cafe also offers Verve coffee beans for purchase and unique photo art by local artists for sale. With friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere, Roy’s Station is definitely worth a visit for a relaxing coffee break or snack.
Coffee & Water Lab
9.2/10 (370 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-490-4988
Unique pourover optionsSelf-roasted beansMinimalist space
Coffee & Water Lab offers a unique experience with a variety of pourover options using a poursteady machine, self-roasted beans for sale, and delicious coffee blends. The minimalist space is packed with patrons working on laptops, but the friendly baristas ensure quick service and great drinks like the Lychee Infused Colombian Coffee Beans. The place may feel a bit crowded, but the quality of the drinks and beans make it worth a visit.
Spectra Coffee
9/10 (229 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-913-8965
Unique latte flavorsDelicious apple strudel turnoverWelcoming atmosphere
Spectra Coffee offers a cozy and cute environment with good drink and snack options, making it an ideal spot for a quick break from shopping at nearby stores. The banana cream latte and apple strudel turnover receive high praise for their delicious flavors and consistency. The service is friendly and attentive, with staff providing helpful recommendations to navigate the extensive menu. The variety of unique latte flavors, such as hot honey lavender and banana oat, set Spectra Coffee apart from larger chain cafes. Overall, a great place to enjoy a warm drink and tasty treat in a relaxing atmosphere.
MoonBean’s Coffee
9.4/10 (413 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-281-8128
Unique Dirty Thai Iced TeaIntriguing Mexican MochaCharming café atmosphere
MoonBean’s Coffee is a charming spot that offers a unique twist on classic coffee drinks. The Dirty Thai Iced Tea is a standout with its bold tea flavor and fresh espresso shot, creating a delightful combination that keeps customers coming back for more. The Mexican Mocha provides an intriguing flavor journey, making each sip a pleasant surprise. While the atmosphere may have some minor flaws like flies, the focus on great coffee and friendly baristas makes up for it. The attention to detail in the café’s staging, from the custom-built coffee roasting machine to the variety of beans on display, adds to the overall charming vibe of the place. Customers can also find comfort in the cozy seating area, perfect for some work with comfortable chairs and plenty of electrical outlets. MoonBean’s Coffee may have room for improvement in its snacks and pastries selection, but the craft coffee and warm atmosphere make it a must-visit for coffee lovers looking to support a small business.
Beard Papa’s
9/10 (239 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-935-6308
VarietyMini puffsNostalgic charm
Beard Papa’s offers a variety of cream-filled pastries that cater to a wide range of taste preferences. While some customers found the flavors to be mediocre, others were impressed by the unique honey butter puff and delicious mini cream puffs. The matcha and original cream puffs are particularly popular, maintaining the same quality and taste that fans have come to love over the years. Despite mixed reviews on the cream filling, Beard Papa’s continues to attract loyal customers with its nostalgic charm and convenient takeaway options.
Peet’s Coffee
9/10 (625 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-213-7285
Quality coffeeHelpful staffVariety of pastries
Peet’s Coffee is a great chain option with very quick service and helpful staff. The prices may be a bit higher, but the quality of the coffee is much better. The pastry options cater to all. The staff at this location is professional, working efficiently and providing great customer service. The atmosphere is welcoming, with plenty of seating inside and outside. The personal interaction between staff and patrons adds a special touch to the experience. The brand is loved for its excellent coffee and cleanliness. Overall, Peet’s Coffee is a top choice for coffee lovers.
T-Square Coffee & Tea
9.6/10 (107 reviews)
| Directions | +1 650-680-5969
Efficient touchscreen orderingMango Thai Coconut latteFriendly and welcoming owner
T-Square Coffee & Tea offers a unique experience with its efficient ordering process using touchscreens. Customers can place their own orders and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere while waiting for their delicious drinks. The Mango Thai Coconut latte, made with high-quality ingredients, is a standout choice with its rich flavors and creamy texture. The owner, Xiang, adds a personal touch to each drink and provides excellent service to both regulars and newcomers. The calm and peaceful vibes of this hidden gem make it a great spot for a quick coffee fix or a relaxing afternoon treat.
Peet’s Coffee
9/10 (575 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-610-2834
Early openingTasty grilled cheeseChic ambiance
Peet’s Coffee is a reliable option for an early morning caffeine fix, opening its doors at 6am even on a Sunday. The quick service and tasty grilled cheese sandwich are standout offerings that keep customers coming back. However, inconsistent experiences with staff members like Daisy, who made a simple order more complicated, can sometimes hinder the overall enjoyment of the visit. The chic and modern industrial ambiance, along with the aroma of freshly baked pastries and coffee, adds to the relaxed vibe of the space. While the lack of ample seating and parking can be frustrating, the quality of the coffee makes it worth a visit.
A.M. Craft
9.8/10 (118 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-892-7998
Cozy atmosphereDiverse beverage selectionFosters communication
A.M. Craft is a gem nestled near San Jose State University, drawing customers in with its cozy atmosphere and diverse selection of beverages and pastries. The latte impressed me, prompting me to purchase a bag of their coffee beans. The ham & cheese and pistachio berry croissants were equally delightful, making it a must-visit spot for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike. A.M. Craft’s focus on fostering communication by eliminating Wi-Fi sets it apart from typical coffee shops, enhancing the overall ambiance and encouraging meaningful interactions among patrons.
Dr.ink
9.2/10 (241 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-352-5169
Unique coffee creationsSeasonal drink optionsQuality pastries
Dr.ink, located in downtown San Jose, offers a unique array of coffee creations that set it apart from other cafes in the area. The Black Sesame Latte and Cinnamon Latte are standout items on the menu, with creative touches like caramelized tops and cinnamon sticks adding to the overall experience. The seasonal drink options add an element of surprise for regular customers looking to try something new. In addition to the innovative beverages, the partnership with a reputable bakery ensures that the pastries are of high quality, elevating the overall experience at this modern cafe.
Peet’s Coffee
9/10 (357 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-256-4584
Spacious seatingPolite staffOutside tables
Peet’s Coffee boasts a clean, spacious, and warm atmosphere with various seating options and adequate room between tables. The coffee spot provides a comfortable environment for customers to enjoy their beverages. Although the selection of non-drink options is limited, the overall experience at Peet’s Coffee is pleasant.
Friends Coffee & Tea
9.6/10 (66 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-725-8811
Natural Almond Spice LatteSpecial needs employmentWelcoming atmosphere
Friends Coffee & Tea is more than just a coffee spot – it’s a welcoming oasis where you can enjoy a delicious Almond Spice Cafe Latte made with all natural spices. The menu boasts enticing options like Chicken Salad and Red Bean & Cream Cheese Mochi, all served with a side of heartwarming customer service. The staff is not only friendly, but they also make you feel like you’re right at home. What sets this place apart is their commitment to offering employment opportunities for special needs individuals, making it a feel-good spot to support. Come for the coffee, stay for the mission and cozy atmosphere.
iJava Cafe
9.2/10 (482 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 408-979-0251
Spacious and welcoming atmosphereGenerous portion sizesHalal-friendly menu
iJava Cafe offers a spacious and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a delicious meal. Customers rave about the generous portion sizes and reasonable prices, making it a great value spot for dining out. The diverse menu, with options like the short rib breakfast burrito and chicken katsu wrap, offers unique and flavorful choices that keep guests coming back for more. With all food being halal, iJava Cafe stands out as a fantastic option for those looking for a halal-friendly dining experience. Whether you’re craving a classic American breakfast or something with a Mexican twist, iJava Cafe has something for everyone to enjoy.