A Guide to Athens Coffee Shops
1000 Faces Coffee
Near and dear to the heart of downtown, 1000 Faces is one of the most aesthetically gifted coffee shops in Athens, given its art-adorned black brick walls, chic white furnishings, vibrant plants, ample sunlight, well-curated retail section, and last but certainly not least, tantalizing aroma of ethically sourced java that’s been roasted on-site. The attention to detail that has gone into designing this welcoming abode with a delightful balance of charm and utility makes it an easy go-to for daytime meetings with colleagues, long overdue coffee dates, and solo study sessions.
Buvez
Located next to where the railroad tracks meet Barber Street, Buvez treats visitors to a bright bohemian ambiance accentuated by warm earthy tones set against minimalistic white walls, cute wooden seating arrangements, vibrant plants, amenities for productivity, and gram-worthy nooks. The picturesque decor serves as an accomplice to thoughtfully crafted, rewardingly delicious coffee beverages, baguette sandwiches, pastries, soft pretzels, snow cones, and a selection of beer & wine.
Hendershot’s
Hendershot’s is breathing new life into a mixed-use development on Prince Ave known as Bottleworks – originally constructed by Coca-Cola in the late 1800s, it is a local landmark. The expansive industrial atmosphere offers guests an art-speckled exposed brick walls, accommodations for remote work, later hours, live music performances most nights of the week, the occasional comedy show, a full bar, and specialty beverages made with house-roasted coffee beans; like the Lavender Latte and Apocolypse Mocha.
Zombie Coffee and Donuts
Snuggled amidst the gorgeous buildings lining Broad Street, Zombie specializes in fair trade, made-to-order coffee drinks, as well as delectable donuts. Concerning the latter, they’re customizable too, choose any coating and toppings and the friendly folks behind the counter here will make your one-of-a-kind donut right in front of you. Moreover, each month Zombie gives away 5% of its gross to a cause voted on by customers, that being said, the cause could be anything from helping an individual in need to providing resources to advance the mission of a local nonprofit.
Sips Espresso Cafe
What this adorable little drive-through nestled on the breezy corner of Prince and Satula may lack in size, it certainly makes up for with wholesome hospitality and an intimate common area where guests can mingle with friends, try some fantastic java, or clock in a quick study session before returning to class.
Walkers Coffee Shop & Pub
Across the street from the University of Georgia’s campus, this beloved staple among Athens coffee shops provides patrons premium coffee, breakfast burritos, and pastries in a tavern setting boasting cozy wooden booths, exposed brick walls, and television screens so you can catch the game. Should you meander on in at the tail end of an exhaustive work day, feel free to take a load off with a cold beer, glass of wine, or handcrafted cocktail.
Jittery Joe’s Coffee
Considering they operate numerous coffee shops in Athens, and more throughout Georgia, you’ve probably already spotted a Jittery Joe’s near you, some stores provide guests a reliable work and gathering space with tables to sit down at and stay awhile, on another hand, others are grab & go oriented. Along with coffee that’s been meticulously roasted in-house, they’ve got toasted bagels and baked treats.
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee
A wonderful setting for words with friends, long study sessions, or just a good old-fashioned java break, Bitty & Beaus serves a variety of hot and cold coffee beverages.
Amy and Ben Wright, the founders of this human rights movement disguised as a coffee shop, are the proud parents of four children – Lillie, Emma Grace, Beau and Bitty. Lillie was born with autism, and Bitty & Beau were born with Down syndrome.
With over 80% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities unemployed nationwide, the Wrights believe that Bitty & Beau’s Coffee creates a path for people with disabilities to become more valued, accepted, and included in every community.
The original shop opened in January 2016 in Wilmington, NC, and employed 19 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, since then, they’ve grown to over 23 shops across 12 states with over 200 employees.
Molly’s Coffee Company
On the outer edges of town and near The State Botanical Garden of Georgia – a 313-acre horticultural conservatory with walking paths and education programs – Molly’s is a neat and relaxed hangout with wooden tabletops and windows that let the sunshine pour on through. The staff maintains a tempting selection of coffee drinks and heavenly baked goods.
Sweet Spot
Nestled in the Chase Park Warehouses – which are former cotton warehouses reimagined to serve as a hub for local artists and businesses – Sweet Spot is the perfect grab & go stop to add to your morning routine. They have gourmet coffee that’s been micro-roasted in-house, as well as snacks that change seasonally.
Poindexter Coffee
Fuel up for the day at Poindexter, The Graduate Hotel’s lobby-level coffee shop serving up cafe favorites – it’s the perfect place for hungry travelers and students hitting the books.
If you enjoyed this guide to the best Athens coffee shops, check out our list of the Top 10 Coffee Shops in Alpharetta!
I do not claim to own any of the images used in this article, unless otherwise noted, they are sourced from each business’s Facebook page, Google account, or website.