A Guide to South Beach Coffee Shops

Shepherd Artisan Coffee

Nestled just a few steps from the shimmering sea, Shepherd is one of the most aesthetically gifted coffee shops in South Beach, by way of its sophisticated ambiance, crafty blue French bistro chairs, earnestly stocked bookshelves, copper tiles, textured surfaces, and amenities for a productive cafe day. The picturesque decor serves as an accomplice to thoughtfully crafted, rewardingly delicious coffee beverages with impressive latte art, as well as healthy all-day breakfast fare, fresh juices, nutritious smoothies, craft beer, and fine wine.

Panther Coffee

A fixture of The Betsy Hotel – which is a luxurious boutique hotel designed with the simple beauty of a tropical hideout – Panther specializes in small-batch roasting, meticulously brewing, and carefully preparing gourmet java. The classy coffee bar can be found in the lobby, surrounded by art-adorned walls, elegant light fixtures, hints of greenery, and posh furnishings where visitors can grab a cozy seat and savor their morning delight.

Cortadito Coffee House

Situated along Lincoln Road – a world-famous shopping street boasting designer brands, boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants – Cortadito provides patrons an elevated ventanita experience; referring of course to the beloved little coffee windows that have been serving locals Cuban coffee and food to go since the 1960s.

Rest assured, this is a spot where you can count on finding delicious pastelitos, sandwiches, and completa bowls with Cuban classics such as ropa vieja, roasted pork, black beans, and maduros. Plus, enjoy the best Cuban coffee via their signature Cortadito or any item from the wide variety of classics and creative creations available.

Salon du Cafe

Known for its Art-Deco and undisputed elegance, The Cadet Hotel, a landmark address in the South Beach district, has transformed its charming exotic garden into a gorgeous specialty coffee bar. The Salon du Café offers an intimate and inviting reception area under a glass roof pergola where the hummingbirds, luxuriant foliage, plush furnishings, and classy atmosphere disconnect guests from the busy hubbub of the city.

Moreover, diligently sourced coffee beans are roasted in small batches on-site, the meticulous process resulting in flavors that complement a range of exclusive signature beverages designed to unveil the unique character of not only a single expresso, but more broadly, the qualities of all specialty coffee.

Caffe Umbria

Equipped with a state-of-the-art roaster and a great passion for blending and roasting, Caffè Umbria captures the true essence of Italian-style espresso and coffee. This recent addition to the ever-budding index of South Beach coffee shops also carries a contemporary, modern vibe accentuated by chic rustic elements, a community table, bar window seating, and a wrap-around cobblestone patio with shaded tables.

Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar

Crema Gourmet attracts young professionals in need of a reliable place to work, as well as groups of friends and family coming together over a cup of delicious coffee, wine, or a flakey, hot melt in your mouth chocolate croissant. The extensive menu has everything from smoothies, salads, and fresh juices to pastries, crepes, and pancakes.

XO Espresso Bar

Occupying a stunning gold and white stall inside the Lincoln Eatery – which features numerous fast-casual, artisan, and grab-&-go concepts in a space that reflects the fast-paced vibe emerging in Miami Beach – XO Espresso serves high-quality coffee, wellness drinks, and organic teas, along with a range of small bites and pastries to match.

Whether you’re a foodie visiting from out of town and craving an authentic local experience, or just looking for a quick pick-me-up between activities, this hidden gem has got you covered.

If you enjoyed this guide to the best coffee shops in South Beach, check out our list of the Top 10 coffee shops in the Wynwood Arts District!

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.