The Best Coffee Shops in New Orleans

Hanging out in coffee shops has been a pastime of mine that I have adopted since college. It’s always been near and dear to me, as I used to run into people I knew, friends, and even crushes. Coffee shops have always been a great place to change it up, get out of my house, see who I see, and enjoy a good cup of joe. Now, I am using them to get a change of scenery for work and maybe meet a cute guy. Dating apps can kiss it.

Since I live in one of the coolest cities in the world, I love writing about great places to hang out and relax and enjoy life. Maybe even do some work, like I am right now as I’m writing this. I’m enjoying going to new spots, revisiting some of my favorites, and most importantly sharing them with you. There are a lot out there, but I’m going to share the best coffee shops in New Orleans, in my opinion, of course.

French Truck in Mid City

French Truck is on my short list of best coffee shops in New Orleans because it’s classic and good. The locations have a warmth to them that I enjoy, and there are several locations throughout the city. French Truck has expanded to other cities as well as other states, but I do find the coffee to still be very good. Since New Orleans is a mild climate, albeit very humid, it’s nice to have wide open spaces to work if you want.

While I haven’t been to all the locations, I’ve been to enough to know that I like vibe. The Dryades location is where I have many meetings for work or meetups with friends because I can also grab a simple lunch. My favorite thing to do is sit outside, regardless of my location (except the French Quarter one), and take in the fresh air.

Back Courtyard at Trumpet and Drum

Located on one of our best streets in the city, Magazine Street, Trumpet and Drum is absolutely adorable. When I walked in for the first time, I had to stop and pause and take it all in. The barista was totally cool with that. It’s the coolest mix between a coffee lounge and the Boston Public Library. They play fun music, but it’s not so loud that I can’t think straight. You can always bring your noise-canceling headphones if you need more focus. Personally, as I write this, I’m here and slightly bopping in my oversized Chester armchair to Lady Gaga’s Just Dance.

This place is super high on the best coffee shops in New Orleans for me because it’s fun and buzzing. Pick your favorite seat, whether it’s at a table, the piano, the jury box (or whatever it is), or the bar. You can’t go wrong here. I’m hooked and it’s on my regular rotation now.

Petite Clouet

A Bywater gem, Petite Clouet is the cutest little button of a coffee shop. It’s tucked away on Royal and Clouet right in the neighborhood, as all Bywater business are. You’ll find inside and outside seating, so on a nice (or remotely nice) day, try to take a seat outside. Being in the Bywater is always a treat, and you’ll want to see as much as you can from your cafe seat.

The main event, in my opinion, is definitely the atmosphere. The coffee is good, but since I’m not exactly a connoisseur of coffee, most coffee from a coffee shop is good (or at least good enough) to me. Don’t come at me! So if you’re wondering why this is on the best coffee shops in New Orleans list, it’s mostly because I love the whole package. If you’re in Bywater, hit her up!

The Vintage

Unfortunately (for me), The Vintage has gotten very popular, but I like to think I thought it was cool before it was so cool. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it. Why I think The Vintage is one of the best coffee shops in New Orleans is because it is. You can get coffee, a single beignet, and a side flute of champagne. It’s truly full service and a lively and fun atmosphere.

Located in a bopping area of Magazine Street, it’s reminiscent of of a dark Parisian cafe. Sit inside or outside - either way you’ll have a great experience. Speaking of the single beignet, if they have the s’mores one, GET IT. I live for that beignet and highly recommend getting one and maybe even one for the road. No, eat it there. One with coffee and one with champagne. You’re welcome.

Morning Call - Where You Add Your Own Powdered Sugar

When I think about my childhood, it cannot be complete without my beloved Morning Call coffee and beignets. In my case, it was always hot chocolate, and still mostly is, but I will once in a while get cafe au lait with my order of hot and fluffy beignets. While Morning Call is not in the same place as I grew up going to, I actually love the new location more. Where it used to be in a strip mall in Metairie, it’s now at the base of the red streetcar line and a standalone building. Ok, it’s connected to Bud’s Broiler, but it’s not a full on strip mall.

This is a place that is linked to post-dance group dates as well as Mardi Gras mornings. Now, I go before 9 am to avoid the crowds and soak up the quiet with the iconic sign in the middle of it. For a full New Orleans experience, make sure to go there, and you can hit the cemeteries afterwards. They are within walking distance and some of my favorites.

Exterior of The Station

The Station coffee shop on Bienville is a converted gas station, and very recognizable with its purple roof. From the time it opened, I have enjoyed having coffee there. It attracts all kinds of locals, from business people to funky band members. Personally, I love sitting outside on a nice day. Most recently I sat inside, though, and did some reading. The music is present but not too loud.

There are tables, couches, and even picnic table style seating within the space. It's definitely a space I feel comfortable and at home, and the coffee is delicious. Get yourself a baked good - too hard to pass up.

Counter at Le Ponce

Le Ponce had my heart immediately. From the moment I read they were affiliated with Cafe Degas, a restaurant at the top ten of my favorite list in the city, I knew I’d be coming here. My first time was for the galette des Rois, the French king cake. Since the owners are, in fact, from France, I knew it would be delicious. I can report it was the most popular king cake at my king cake party. Enough about that, though.

The coffee shop itself is cozy, and it has a lovely outside space when the weather is nice. It’s located in the Bayou St. John neighborhood, which is another spot I love to frequent in the city. And it’s adjacent to Cafe Degas, so you can pop over there for a bite after your cafe au lait. I’m a fan, and I think you will be too.

I Sat ON the Orange Couch...I Had to

The Marigny triangle is such a special spot in the city of New Orleans. It’s smooshed between the French Quarter and Bywater neighborhoods, and it’s a delight to walk around. I’d heard about The Orange Couch many times before I happened to be at a listing appointment just houses down from it, so I wanted to pop in and see it. Immediately I added it to this list.

Yes, there is actually an orange couch in the shop and I felt obliged to sit on it. My friend and I hung out there for an hour or two comfortably and soaked in the comers and goers, as well as our conversation on a comfy couch. There are plenty of tables and chairs to sit at as well, but the couches are my preference. I don’t know how the coffee is because I got tea, but I am positive it will be good. I can’t wait to go back and try more from there. And their pastry selection was 10/10. If you’re in the Marigny, definitely stop by.

Coffee Science

I’ve seen Coffee Science a million times at the farmers market I go to on Sunday morning. What I didn’t realize for a long time is that they have a physical location, so I wanted to check it out. They have a few different types of beans that they roast in house, so the beans are super fresh and you can taste it in the coffee. In fact, when I visited I sat directly next to the area where they roast them.

There is a section in the front of the house to sit at a bar and tables down the hall, and that opens up to a really nice courtyard. It’s lit with party lights that are strung around the pergolas, and complete with a few neighborhood cats. Anyone who takes care of neighborhood cats is a friend in my book. There is a parking lot to the right of the building, as well as street parking. Supporting local is what this feels like to the core, so I highly encourage stopping in at this place for a brew. It’s the perfect balance of funk and comfort.

The Bean Gallery

The Bean Gallery is a late addition to this blog because I hadn't been in quite a while and I don't like to recommend places that are not current to me. Since I knew I had to go to the dentist, which is located next door, I brought my computer and decided to treat myself to a morning of coffee and work after getting my teeth checked. I'm so glad I did! The vibe is even better than I remember, and I love the local feel.

Mid City is one of my favorite neighborhoods in New Orleans because it's off the tourist radar. And I know you are reading this wanting that very thing. The coffee is good, and if you can snag a seat outside on a beautiful day like I did, you can watch the red streetcar go by and have a great visit with a friend or work, like me. A well deserved addition here, and definitely one of the best coffee shops in New Orleans. Enjoy your cup here, inside or outside, and hit up Home Malone after for something New Orleans-y.

Congregation Coffee Roasters

When I heard CC's on Magazine and Jefferson was closing, I felt a little sad because it was such a perfect spot for a coffee shop. Soon after, I heard Congregation Coffee Roasters were opening their second location in its place. I was thrilled! Their first location is in Algiers Point, and while I enjoy that little neighborhood, I am not there often. Congregation has really good coffee and I am very excited to have it on the east bank - it's just closer and easier to get to for those of us on this side of the Mississippi River.

When I stepped into the building, I was pleasantly surprised at how bustling and clean it was, and it was buzzing with happy people. The first time I went, it was to practice French, so some headphones would be good during busier hours, but I'll be back to catch up with friends and enjoy very reasonably price coffee (or chai tea which I enjoyed). If you're uptown and want a delightful place to hang out, check them out. I'm a fan and can't wait to go back for more.

This has been one of the most fun blogs for me to write. I got to discover so many different places around New Orleans and enjoy delicious coffee at each. They are all unique and all worthy of a visit, whether you're local or visiting for a few days. It's truly one of the most authentic New Orleans experiences. Most of us enjoy coffee and/or tea at various times of the day, and this is a great list to get you caffeinated and feeling ready to tackle what the city offers. And after you finish your cup of coffee, you can check out my list of my favorite bars around the city. Buzzing and caffeinated at the same time - could you ask for anything more?

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