Philadelphia’s Top 5 Coffee Shops
If you're in Philadelphia and your coffee cravings have hit Level 10, it’s time to check out some of the best coffee shops you'll ever set foot in. Maybe you drink it for the caffeine kick that jumpstarts your day, or perhaps it’s the rich, comforting flavor that keeps you coming back for more. It could be the ritual of sipping something warm while you ease into your manic Monday morning, or the way a perfectly brewed cup can snap you out of that midday slump during a brutal post-vacation-back-to-work grind. Whatever your reason, there’s something special about finding that perfect cup of coffee that hits just right every time.
And fair warning—by the end of this, you might just find yourself craving a second (or third) cup!
Via Elixir's Instagram
Let’s begin our caffeine crawl with an elixir for your tired soul: Elixr Coffee, that is. Located down a tiny side street by the name of South Sydenham, Elixir not only serves up coffee that’s smoother than Sinatra, but also an atmosphere that whispers, "Stay a while." What’s their secret? It might just be the blend of quality beans (hailing from Guatemala, Ecuador, Colombia, and El Salvador to name a few) and passionate baristas. Their expertise in espresso-based drinks will leave you contemplating what to hit next on the menu.
If you’ve ever dreamt of enjoying a Speculoos latte with a side of adorable charm, then Herman’s Coffee is your next stop. Found in a refurbished garage in Dickinson Narrows, Herman’s combines industrial chic with a community vibe. Their outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching or just soaking in a sunny day, where you can enjoy your coffee accompanied by the gentle hum of neighborhood chatter. And if you get peckish, their pastry selection will have you singing praises to the dough gods.
Via Forin's Instagram
Craving something with a bit more zip? Try Vibrant Coffee Roasters in Rittenhouse. True to its name, this place is all about bringing vibrancy to your cup of joe. They have a great selection of single origins, blends, and limited roasts to purchase for your home brewing operation. If you opt to sip inside, you can be assured that every cup promises a lively sip that might just turn your day around.
Moving on to Forin Cafe, where minimalism meets flavor. This spot in Kensington combines aesthetics and ethos, offering locally sourced bites (the usual suspects of pastries, parfaits, and breakfast sandwiches mesh well with a few Asian-inspired like spiced coconut salad and sweet chicken rice) to accompany your java. There's no pretense here, just good vibes and even better coffee. Don't miss out on browsing the fantastically curated selection of vinyl records while you’re there!
Finally, we have Ultimo Coffee. A tried-and-true favorite among locals, and with locations scattered across the city, Ultimo is a staple in the Philly coffee scene. This family-run establishment knows its single-origin beans, and it’s entirely evident. Head over to their South Philly shop where it all began, and find them serving up great-tasting coffee with an incredible selection of pastries that perfectly complement every sip.
Next time you’re wandering around Philadelphia with a growl in your stomach and a yearning for some top-tier coffee, you know exactly where to go.
But maybe before you grab that next cup, why not work up an appetite with some outdoor fitness? Check out our article on the best outdoor workouts in Philly and make the most of the city’s fresh air and vibrant energy. After all, a good sweat makes that coffee taste even better!
