720 Moreland Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30316
(404) 622-8525
www.hodgepodgecoffee.com
HodgePodge not only serves excellent coffee from Batdorf & Bronson, they also have the friendliest service of any of the popular cafes around town. If you want a real jolt, ask for the “Kick in the Pants,” a drip coffee with 2 shots of espresso. Those with a sweet tooth might enjoy the “Slap You’ Pappy,” which has iced coffee concentrate, half and half, and Ghiradelli chocolate. There’s also a super fun collection of art from local arts like Red Rocket Farm for your viewing and purchasing pleasure, and they regularly host events featuring the artists.
510 Flat Shoals Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30316
(404) 521-1122
www.facebook.com/Joes-East-Atlanta-Coffee-Shop
If you’re looking for a spot to hang out and catch up with a friend over a serious cup of coffee, then Joe’s East Atlanta is your best bet. They open at 6:30 a.m. on weekdays and 7:30 a.m. on weekends, so you can get your fix early and stay to work or chill out. They use Intelligentsia coffee beans and there’s an awesome collection of art by local fixture R. Land throughout the space, available for purchase. The baristas are friendly and there is comfy seating as well as free wifi; it’s pretty much everything you want in a casual cafe.
Various locations
www.octanecoffee.com
Octane Coffee is a must for any list of best coffee in Atlanta. With four locations around town, including the newest one at the Woodruff Arts Center, it’s a great local business to visit either for business or pleasure. They roast their own beans and use milk from local dairies to keep strong ties with the Atlanta community. If you’re in a hurry, you can use their app and order your coffee ahead of your visit so that it is ready when you walk in the door.
Related: Best Untraditional Donuts in Atlanta
1963 Hosea L Williams Dr NE
Atlanta, GA 30317
(404) 464-5435
www.taproomcoffee.com
This Kirkwood hotspot is popular with hipsters and locals and makes a great place for a networking meetup, as it offers both excellent coffee and local beer, so it’s great for drinkers and non-drinkers alike. They serve Counter Culture coffee and sweet treats (try the almond croissant!) from Decatur’s Ratio Bakeshop. For something different, check out their Nitro Beerspresso, which uses a Japanese-style iced coffee method combined with dry hops. Of course, all of your standard coffee fare is on hand as well, and there is indoor and outdoor seating.
992 North Highland Avenue Northeast
Atlanta, GA 30306
(470) 447-5651
www.facebook.com/pages/Press-Grind/1058045404248468
Press and Grind is new to the Atlanta coffee scene, taking over the space in Virginia Highland formerly owned by Aurora Coffee, but it’s already developing an avid fanbase. Expect to find whatever food and coffee trend is popular fully stocked here (nut milks? paleo friendly desserts? check!), and the space is pleasantly light and airy. It makes a great break spot when you’re strolling and shopping in the area. Parking in the area is always a bit challenging, but it’s worth a walk for this cute new shop.