Are you sick of the horrible Em Café coffee that resembles chalk mixed with dirt? Yeah, well you’re not alone on that one. If you’re craving a cup of quality coffee with an awesome atmosphere check out my picks.
Pavement
Pavement is the perfect place, whether you want to meet someone for a coffee date or study (as long as you can deal with talking in the background). Don’t mention anything about decaf in this place, otherwise you’ll get a reply that sounds something like, “We serve real coffee here.” They get new coffee roasts every week so you can never get bored here. If you’re a sucker for some shabby sheik, bare brick, then this is certainly your kind of place. If coffee isn’t your thing, they have a full tea menu as well.
Favorite Recommendation: Any latte!
Address: 1096 Boylston Street and 44 Gainsborough Street
Polcari’s Coffee
When you walk into Polcari’s you might start to question if you are still in America. Tucked away in Boston’s North End, Polcari’s has a real old-world Italian feel. Hanging from the ceiling will be cured meats, cheeses, and the entire back wall is adorned with coffee from around the world. If you’re lucky, the man will let you smell some beans and then he will grind them for you right there! The people there make you feel like you’re part of the family. Also, for such spectacular, imported coffee, it is pretty cheap at $6 for a half pound. There is nowhere to consume this coffee in the shop itself, but it is totally worth the trek. I promise.
Favorite Recommendation: French Roast
Address: 105 Salem Street
Refuge Café
I know when you think of Allston you probably think of house parties, drunken nights, and maybe trash, but there really are some food gems out there. One of my favorites is Refuge. They have amazing vegan and vegetarian sandwiches, and a chill vibe. Yes, it’s very “hip.” The walls are covered in wacky art and you will definitely find your fair share of hipsters in there, but don’t be alarmed, the coffee won’t judge you. It’s a great place for a brunch or lunch date. Not to mention—they have a pretty solid beer menu.
Favorite Recommendation: Cappuccino
Address: 155 Brighton Avenue
Wired Puppy
Don’t come here hungry. It isn’t about the food. It’s all about the coffee. This little coffee shop on Newbury is quiet and a great place to post up on a Sunday. Not to mention, they have free wifi. There are small bites such as muffins and weird organic baked things (if you’re into that). Personally, I would recommend just sticking to the coffee. It’s what they do best. The staff is super friendly and you don’t have to feel ashamed buying a cup and spending a few hours in there.
Favorite Recommendation: Soy Latte
Address: 250 Newbury Street
Voltage Coffee & Art
How can you have a list of coffee shops without mentioning Cambridge? This place is literally crawling with cafés. You really can’t go wrong, but one of my all time favorites is Voltage Coffee & Art. They have the most creative lattes ranging from lime and agave to coconut with ginger syrup. It is part café and part art gallery so while you’re sipping on your homemade caramel and salt latte you can look at local artists’ work. The Improper Bostonian named this hot hangout the best coffee shop in Boston. Check it out. It’s awesome.
Favorite Recommendation: Beyond the sea- homemade caramel and salt latte
Address: 295 3rd st, Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA