Nashville, often lauded and incredibly well-known for its vibrant music scene and Southern charm, brews a coffee culture as rich as its history. Amidst the city’s melodic strumming, coffee shops serve as cultural cornerstones—places for both relaxation and recharging – and sometimes even doubling up as live music venues.
The Best Nashville Coffee Shops cater to varied tastes, from the remote worker in search of a two-top table to the tourist seeking a flavorful pause in their journey.
With several neighborhoods boasting their own unique spins on the classic coffee shop, you can always expect a blend of traditional Southern hospitality infused within each cup.
True craft coffee aficionados will want to gravitate towards the meticulously roasted beans and artful barista techniques that are becoming a staple across the city. In Nashville, coffee shops like Frothy Monkey not only offer an invigorating cup but also complement their brews with delectable breakfast fare, creating a full sensory experience. The appreciation for local beans and the rise of spacious, thoughtfully designed cafés cater to both the casual sipper and the dedicated espresso enthusiast.
The landscape of Nashville’s coffee shops is ever-evolving, mirroring the dynamic nature of the city itself. From quaint patios perfect for sunny days to cozy welcoming nooks, these full-flavored joints are as much a part of Nashville as country music and hot chicken.
Discovering Nashville’s Coffee Culture
Nashville’s vibrant coffee scene is as dynamic as its legendary music, with local roasters and single-origin offerings taking center stage in many exciting venues.
The Rise of Music City’s Coffee Scene
In recent years, “Music City,” has seen a boom in coffee culture that has brought some of the best baristas from across the world to Nashville. The city’s cafes are not only about serving a cup of joe; they have become cultural hubs where community and creativity flourish.
The Best Nashville Coffee Shops – Local Roasters and Single-Origin Coffee
At the heart of Nashville’s coffee evolution are the local roasters who prioritize quality and sustainability. These artisans source some of the very best beans from around the globe, ensuring that their single-origin coffee offerings provide an unparalleled taste experience.
The Best Nashville Coffee Shops and Their Unique Specialties
Crema and Its Signature Brews
Crema, a coffee shop that prides itself on its artisanal, individual approach, stands out in the bustling Downtown Nashville. They offer a selection of single-origin beans and meticulously crafted espresso-based drinks.
Barista Parlor’s Unique Offerings
Situated in several locations, including the Gulch, Sylvan Park, and East Nashville, Barista Parlor has become a firm local favorite. It is well-regarded not only for its spacious and aesthetically pleasing interiors but also for its wide selection of single-origin coffees. They serve their coffee with precision and care, ensuring that every cup is a testament to their passion for coffee.
East Nashville’s Ugly Mugs
Ugly Mugs in East Nashville is a cozy destination for both coffee enthusiasts and casual café-goers. They emphasize both quality and community, serving a range of expertly prepared coffee and tea beverages. Ugly Mugs also offers a variety of pastries and light snacks that pair perfectly with their drinks, making it an inviting spot for a relaxed afternoon.
The Best Nashville Coffee Shops For Brews and Bites
Nashville’s coffee scene thrives not only on its meticulously crafted brews but also on its array of bites. From the first sip of morning coffee accompanied by hearty breakfast items to the leisurely brunches paired with a latte, and the sweet or savory snacks ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up, the best Nashville coffee shops offer a delightful culinary experience.
Breakfast Favorites at Coffeehouses
When the morning cravings hit, Nashville coffee enthusiasts head to their favorite coffeehouses for more than just a cup of Joe. They seek out aromatic coffee paired with breakfast staples such as bagels, biscuits, and a variety of baked goods. Some popular spots prioritize locally sourced ingredients, giving patrons a fresh and fulfilling start to the day.
Lunch and Brunch Spots with Coffee
Many of the best Nashville cafes transform the coffee experience into a full meal affair as the day progresses. For lunch and brunch, these coffee shops serve robust and interesting menus that include everything from light salads and sandwiches to more substantial plates. Coffee remains a staple, pairing splendidly with lunchtime treats and enhancing the brunch vibe with both hot and iced options.
Coffee Shops for Sweet and Savory Treats
Later in the day, patrons flock to Nashville’s coffee shops for their indulgent desserts and sweet pastries, a perfect accompaniment to their afternoon or evening caffeine fix. These shops also feature an assortment of savory items for those who prefer a less sugary snack. From decadent chocolate cakes to cheese-filled croissants, there’s a perfect coffee pairing for every patron’s palate.
The Coffee Experience Beyond the Cup
The best Nashville coffee shops offer more than just high-quality coffee; it’s an immersive experience that caters to diverse preferences and lifestyles, from educational workshops to spaces that seamlessly blend work and relaxation.
Coffee Classes and Workshops
For true caffeine enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of coffee culture, Nashville’s coffee scene doesn’t disappoint. Retrograde Coffee is well known for hosting barista-led workshops where you can learn the art of making the perfect espresso, cappuccino, or pour-over for yourself. These interactive sessions cover everything from the origins of beans to the nuances of brewing techniques, ensuring you’ll leave with a richer appreciation of the coffee you love.
The Best Nashville Coffee Shops with Work-Friendly Spaces
Remote workers and students are in luck with (as mentioned earlier) places like Frothy Monkey featuring ample space designed with the laptop user in mind: free Wi-Fi, plenty of outlets, and a calm environment – and no heavy pressure to move on. So pull up a chair and settle in for a few hours with a cold brew or Americano while ticking off your to-do list.
Evening Hangouts: From Coffee to Wine
Some venues transition from daytime coffee havens to evening retreats offering wine and numerous other alcohol options. Live music and a welcoming patio add to the allure, forming an integral part of the city’s vibrant coffee culture while providing a seamless transition for those who enjoy the rhythm of day-to-evening leisure activities.
Our Best Nashville Coffee Shops List
Location: Multiple locations; flagship at 519B Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Specialty: Single-origin pour-overs and unique espresso drinks, along with an artisanal menu in a spacious, industrial setting.
Crema
Location: 15 Hermitage Ave, Nashville, TN 37204
Specialty: Locally roasted beans and a variety of brew methods, including Aeropress and Chemex.
Location: Multiple locations; one at 2509 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Specialty: Farm-to-table food paired with quality coffee, and the famous “Frothy Monkey” latte.
Location: 1812 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37212
Specialty: All-day breakfast and a strong focus on local ingredients, along with house-roasted coffee
Location: 8 City Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209
Specialty: Known for their serious approach to coffee and offering educational tasting experiences.
Location: Multiple locations; one at 2108A 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Specialty: Locally roasted coffee and a selection of single-origin beans, with a focus on educating customers about coffee.
Location: Multiple locations; one at 690 East Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209
Specialty: Coffee with a cause, as they invest in clean water projects around the world; known for their espresso drinks.
Bongo Java
Location: 2007 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212
Specialty: Organic coffee roaster with a quirky atmosphere, offering a full menu and the “Bongo Basic” breakfast.
Location: 603 Taylor St, Nashville, TN 37208
Specialty: Innovative coffee creations like the “Matchless Coffee Soda” and a modern, minimalist space.
Location: Multiple locations; one at 3431 Murphy Rd, Nashville, TN 37203
Specialty: A well-curated selection of single-origin coffees and house-made pastries.
Wherever you go, we really do hope you find the best coffee shops in Nashville – enjoy!
