A Guide to Omaha Coffee Shops
Archetype Coffee
Nestled in the vibrant Little Bohemia neighborhood – which boasts a rich history as the city’s melting pot – this hallmark among Omaha coffee shops serves small-batch roasted, meticulously brewed java amidst chic rustic digs underscored by earthy tones, exposed brick and minimalistic white tile walls, wooden furnishings, and touches of well-nourished greenery.
A better environment for productivity would be difficult to imagine, aside from optimum functionality, the attention to detail that has gone into designing Archetype with a delightful balance of charm and utility makes it an easy go-to for daytime meetings with colleagues, long overdue coffee dates, or solo study sessions.
Myrtle & Cypress Coffeehouse
This adorable two-story abode nestled in Gifford Park treats visitors to a dreamy bohemian ambiance complete with plenty of aesthetically gifted nooks and seating arrangements, soft earthy tones, hanging gardens, natural sunlight, textured surfaces, and a playroom for the kids. Myrtle & Cypress’s menu includes delicious coffee beverages made from java that’s been roasted in-house and with natural sweeteners (organic whenever possible), teas, ice cream, and small health-conscious bites such as toasts, protein plates, and scrumptious gluten-free baked goods.
13th Street Coffee
Near and dear to the heart of downtown, 13th Street Coffee provides a warm and cozy atmosphere featuring ample seating, earnestly stocked bookshelves, rotating artworks on the walls, an upstairs loft area, and amenities for a productive cafe day. The wholesome decor is an accomplice to thoughtfully crafted, rewardingly delicious seasonal beverages like the chocolate hinted Midnight Rose Latte and lavender, blackberry, and vanilla enriched Mama Bear Latte.
Zen Coffee Company
Situated beneath a billboard with a red heart painted onto it, Zen is a green-certified home away from home in the budding Farnam Hill District. The interior carries welcoming vibes accentuated by flower-topped tables, comfy furnishings, subtle greenery, artsy wallpapers, and brick and tile floors.
Rally Coffee Co.
Located across the street from Charles Schwab Field – annual host of the College World Series and home ballpark for the Creighton University men’s baseball team – Rally exudes beautiful minimalistic appeal, by way of its white walls, chairs, and honeycomb tile-wrapped front counter, light wooden tabletops, trendy light fixtures, and lush verdure. Moreover, the friendly folks here are passionate about sourcing exceptional coffee beans per season and roasting them in a way that accentuates their unique flavor profiles in the cup you drink.
Howlin’ Hounds Coffee
A step through the front door of this unassuming, old stand-alone building on 16th, just a few streets off the main drag, reveals what at first may seem like a 19th-century saloon, but in reality, is one of the most beloved coffee shops in Omaha; and if you don’t take our word for it, consider the over 200 Yelp reviews with an average 5 Star (perfect) rating.
Could it be the lengthy dark wooden bartop flanked by all-too-familiar, no-frills stools or the elegant stamped tin ceiling and exposed brick walls adorned with masterful creative expressions? Each of these timeless elements likely has something to do with the unforgettable experiences being had at Howlin’ Hounds, but without a doubt, it’s the artisanal skill, charm, and hospitality of the genuine folks behind the bar that makes the place a world-class bastion of coffee culture.
Stories Coffee Company
Whether you’d like to sink into a couch or armchair and appreciate the company of loved ones over a steamy cup of joe, groove to the tunes of a local musician, or silently work amidst the modern nautical charm of a cozy and accommodating neighborhood gathering space, whatever the case may be, Stories has got you covered.
Amateur Coffee
For those Instagram connoisseurs of cuteness ever on the prowl for all things pretty, this petite parlor showcases an abundance of pink accents, gorgeous black and white honeycomb tile floors, and creatively presented beverages worth a flick. Amateur roasts their very own coffee in-house and is also 100% vegan, meaning they have tantalizing foods such as Sweet Mags pastries, the best vegan/gluten-free “chick’n” + waffles, vegan/gluten-free breakfast burritos, quiche cups, and chia puddings.
Hardy Coffee Co.
This expansive java enclave in Benson – a hot nightlife district known for frosty beer, good music, and dishes loaded with local flavor – is truly sensational. It showcases art pieces, earthy tones, and wooden accents against exposed brick walls, an abundance of seating arrangements, live entertainment in the evenings, and a plant-speckled outdoor patio illuminated by light bulbs strung overhead.
Rest assured, the folks here take their java roasting and brewing methods as seriously as they do their picturesque aesthetic, whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or coffee date arranger, any of Hardy’s several Omaha coffee shops have got what you’re looking for.
Sozo Coffeehouse
A non-profit, casual hangout run by Great Adventure Ministries, Sozo offers guests a family-friendly venue that’s often the site of live music performances, comedy shows, and local art galleries. A couple of house specials, among other seasonal drinks, include the caramel and hazelnut blended latte. While there, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the study rooms, conference rooms, pool tables, and last but certainly not least, enormous selection of board games.
Bad Seed Coffee & Supply
Filled to the brim with vibrant plants that yes, are indeed for sale, Bad Seed Coffee & Supply provides patrons small-batch roasted single-origin and direct trade java from the world’s premier growing regions. Brewed coffees are all done so by hand, the espresso is weighed and measured at every step, and the nitro cold brews are always flowing.
Dundee Double Shot Coffee
Grab a seat at any one of the colorful, sun-kissed picnic tables that dapple Dundee Double Shot’s garden-wrapped outdoor patio. Although the team here is capable of crafting delicious takes on your usual caffeinated favorites, consider trying one of their many flavorsome featured drinks like the Cinnamon Roll, Dirty Harry Mocha, or German Chocolate Latte. When it comes to those hot summer days, keep in mind, the refreshing smoothies are made with 100% crushed fruit.
The Table Coffee Co.
A snug getaway nestled in the heart of downtown’s Old Market District – where the cobblestone streets are lined with a diverse mix of boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and taverns – The Table maintains an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for meetings, study groups, and remote working, thanks to its comfy furnishings, speedy WiFi, and power outlets. Enjoy your morning delight with a Waffle Breakfast Sandwich, such as the Table’s Best Turkey, or the Woolworth Club; they also carry a variety of desserts, soups, and seasonal salads, each made with love.
Cafe Postale
Whether you’re catching up with friends over healthy light dishes, conducting an important business meeting, or just stopping in for a drink and to reminisce about the day’s adventures (before you head out for the night), Cafe Postale has created a lush, multifaceted space that boasts ample posh seating arrangements, modern concepts, nods to the building’s past as a postal railway transport hub, and amenities for a productive day. Set amidst Little Italy, the space also offers the opportunity to host a variety of events including corporate retreats, intimate weddings, and milestone celebrations.
Edge of the Universe
Edge of the Universe is a museum cafe where the theme changes every few months. Each makeover features a new local artist who contributes to the vision of that theme and its execution, along with exciting cocktails, coffees, decor, costumes, and events to match. Nobody is an alien at the edge of the universe!
CTRL Coffee & Cereal Bar
A recent addition to the ever-budding index of Omaha coffee shops and a short stroll from the Durham Museum – which is dedicated to preserving and displaying the history of the United States’ western region – CTRL has a casual throwback setting infused with retro elements, gaming stations where guest can play classics like Super Mariokart, colorful accents, and 30 different kinds of cereal. The specialty drinks are inspired by influential “game-changers” ranging in scope from legendary artists like Prince and Selena to the late great chef Anthony Bourdain to Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.
Scooter’s Coffee
Scooter’s Coffee is a drive-thru franchise that has been serving world-class coffee for more than 20 years. The menu features an array of specialty espresso beverages, single-origin coffee, fruit smoothies, Red Bull Infusions, Cold Brew, baked-from-scratch pastries, and savory breakfast options ranging from breakfast burritos to hot sandwiches. The Caramelicious is their signature drink, you can’t go wrong with ordering this rich, velvety, caramel gem.
This rapidly blossoming java business started out in 1998 as a single drive-thru coffeehouse in Bellevue, Nebraska clinging to the following principles: find a great location and stay committed to high-quality drinks, speed of service, and a BIG smile. Since those humble beginnings, Scooter’s has grown to over 300 locations in 21 states across the nation!
Caribou Coffee
Though Caribou has stores throughout Nebraska, you may have spotted their lone Omaha operation in the Hy-Vee grocery store on 178th Street. Along with mochas, lattes, and bubble teas, they got toasted bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and baked treats.
If you enjoyed this guide to the best coffee shops in Omaha, check out our list of the Top 10 Coffee Shops in Lincoln!
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 or Google account.