Best coffee

in Boston

May 2025 ■
Words by Farai Garayi

white coffee machine
best coffee in boston

Boston’s Coffee Scene: Where every cup tells a story  

Boston isn’t just about cobblestone streets and Red Sox games—it’s also home to a thriving coffee culture as rich and diverse as the city itself. From Back Bay to the North End, we’ve rounded up the best coffee in Boston—one neighbourhood at a time.  

Whether you're a long-time local or staying with us at the Bon, there’s nothing like starting your day with a perfectly poured latte or a strong cold brew from a neighbourhood gem. In this guide, we’re spilling the beans on the best coffee in Boston—highlighting top cafés across Downtown, Back Bay, the North End, and more. Get ready to sip through the city's most beloved coffee spots.  

Ready to explore? Here are 10 must-visit spots that serve the best coffee in Boston. Your new favourite brew awaits.  

  1. thinking cup
    01

    Thinking Cup (Back Bay & North End) 

    Known for its great vibe and top-notch brews, Thinking Cup is a local favourite with locations in both Back Bay and the North End. They proudly serve Stumptown Coffee Roasters—one of the best in the game—alongside a tempting selection of pastries and light bites. Whether you’re strolling down Newbury Street or exploring the Italian charm of Hanover Street, it’s the perfect pit stop for your caffeine fix.

    Must-Try: Stumptown Hair Bender espresso, lavender latte.

    Food Pairing: Croissants, macarons.

    Why Go? This European-style café uses Stumptown beans (a Portland legend) and is a local institution. The North End location feels like a cozy Italian espresso bar, while the Back Bay spot is ideal for people-watching. Pro Tip: Try their seasonal drinks—pumpkin spice there is good.

    Locations: Newbury St (Back Bay), Hanover St (North End), Tremont St (Downtown)   

      

  2. breakfast coffee in boston
    02

    George Howell Coffee (Downtown Boston) 

    George Howell Coffee is a must-visit for true coffee lovers in the stylish Godfrey Hotel. This downtown gem focuses on single-origin beans, precision brewing, and education, making every cup an experience. The space is sleek and modern, perfect for a quick espresso or a slow sip while people-watching through the tall glass windows. If you're serious about your coffee, this is one of Downtown Boston's best coffee spots.  

    Must-Try: Single-origin pour-over (ask for the seasonal selection), espresso tonic  

    Food Pairing: Almond biscotti  

    Why Go? Howell is a coffee legend—his beans are roasted locally, and the brew methods are meticulous. The minimalist space is a temple for coffee purists. Insider Tip: Try the "Godshot" (a perfect espresso pull).    

     Location: 505 Washington St (Downtown Crossing)  

  3. 03

    Tatte Bakery & Café (Multiple Locations, including Back Bay)  

    Tatte isn’t just a café—it’s a Boston institution. Known for its chic interiors, flaky pastries, and perfectly crafted lattes, this spot blends Parisian charm with Mediterranean flair. The Back Bay location offers a bright, airy space ideal for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet morning solo. Whether you’re in the mood for a pistachio croissant or a smooth flat white, Tatte delivers elegance with every sip.  

     Must-Try: Iced vanilla latte, Turkish coffee  

    Food Pairing: Shakshuka, pistachio croissant  

    Why Go? Good interiors meet serious coffee. Their downtown location (Post Office Square) is a quiet oasis, while the Back Bay café buzzes with energy. 

    Locations: Multiple (Downtown, Back Bay, Seaport, etc.)  

  4. 04

    Caffè Vittoria (North End)  

     Step into Boston’s first Italian café and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a Roman coffee bar. Caffè Vittoria is a North End classic, serving rich espressos, cappuccinos, and traditional Italian desserts in an old-world setting. With its marble-topped tables, vintage décor, and unbeatable cannoli, this spot is all about timeless charm. It’s the perfect place to slow down and savour North End Boston's best coffee.  

     Must-Try: Traditional cappuccino, affogato  

    Food Pairing: Cannoli, tiramisu  

    Why Go? Boston’s oldest espresso bar (1929) oozes old-world charm with marble counters and vintage photos. 

    Pro Move: Go late-night for dessert and espresso like a local.  

    Location: 296 Hanover St (North End) 

  5. coffee house
    05

    Pavement Coffeehouse (Back Bay & Newbury St)   

    A go-to for locals and students. Pavement Coffeehouse blends a laid-back environment with serious coffee credentials. Their Newbury Street spot is always buzzing, offering strong cold brews, smooth espresso drinks, and house-made bagels that are worth the trip alone. With plenty of seating and a calm, creative atmosphere, it’s one of the best coffee spots in Back Bay—perfect for a casual meet-up or a solo recharge.  

     Must-Try: Nutella latte, cold brew  

     Food Pairing: Avocado toast, bagels  

    Why Go? A student/work favourite with strong Wi-Fi and ample outlets. The Back Bay location (Newbury St) is tiny but efficient. Study Hack: Arrive before 9 AM to snag a seat.  

    Locations: Back Bay, Fenway, Allston, etc.     

  6. hot beverage matcha
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    Ogawa Coffee (Downtown Crossing)  

    Imported straight from Kyoto, Ogawa Coffee brings Japanese precision and artistry to Boston’s Downtown Crossing. This sleek, minimalist café is known for its meticulously crafted lattes, stunning latte art, and attention to every detail—from bean to brew. Whether grabbing a quick coffee between meetings or taking a moment to unwind, Ogawa offers a refined experience that's easily among the best coffee spots in Downtown Boston.  

     Must-Try: Caramel Kuromitsu latte, matcha espresso fusion  

     Food Pairing: Japanese cheesecake  

     Why Go? A Kyoto import with stunning latte art and innovative drinks. The sleek, zen-like space is a peaceful escape. Don’t miss: their "Coffee & Art" events.  

    Location: 10 Milk St (Downtown Crossing) 

  7. ice coffee in boston
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    Blue Bottle Coffee (Seaport & Back Bay)  

    With its clean aesthetic and commitment to freshness, Blue Bottle Coffee has made a name for itself among Boston’s coffee elite. Their Seaport and Back Bay locations deliver the brand’s signature style: minimal, modern spaces paired with meticulously brewed single-origin coffees. From bold drip brews to smooth New Orleans-style iced coffee, Blue Bottle is a must for those who appreciate a precise, elevated coffee experience in Boston’s trendiest neighbourhoods.  

     Must-Try: New Orleans-style iced coffee, single-origin drip  

    Food Pairing: Liege waffle  

    Why Go? A pioneer of third-wave coffee, with beans roasted in Brooklyn. The Back Bay location is steps from the Prudential Centre. Eco Perk: They prioritise sustainable sourcing.  

    Locations: Seaport, Back Bay (60 Dalton St)   

  8. cup of coffee
    08

    Broadsheet Coffee Roasters (Cambridge & Harvard Square)  

    Broadsheet Coffee Roasters is worth the short trip across the river in Cambridge for anyone serious about their brew. As Harvard Square’s first speciality coffee roastery, Broadsheet focuses on ethically sourced beans that are expertly roasted on-site. The café is bright and welcoming—ideal for slow mornings, deep conversations, or quiet productivity. If you're venturing beyond Boston, this spot stands out for high-quality coffee and a thoughtful, community-driven vibe.  

     Must-Try: Kenyan pour-over, espresso with sparkling water  

     Food Pairing: Cardamom bun  

    Why Go? Small-batch roasting done right. The baristas geek out over flavour notes—ask for a tasting flight. Local Secret: Their seasonal single-origin releases sell out fast.  

    Location: 100 Kirkland St (Cambridge, near Harvard)  

  9. expresso coffee
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    Gracenote Coffee (Downtown & Leather District)  

     

    Small in size but mighty in reputation, Gracenote Coffee is a hidden gem tucked into Boston’s Leather District. Known for its precision brewing and expertly sourced beans, this minimalist espresso bar is a haven for purists. Whether grabbing a silky cortado or a bold single-origin shot, every cup is carefully crafted. It's easily one of the best coffee spots in Downtown Boston for those who value quality over quantity.  

    Must-Try: Espresso (their "Black Cat" blend), cortado  

    Food Pairing: Sfoglina pastry (from a local bakery)  

    Why Go? A no-frills counter serving some of Boston’s most nuanced espresso. The tiny space is standing-room-only—grab and go. Coffee Nerd Alert: They roast in-house in Somerville.  

    Location: 108 Lincoln St (Leather District) 

  10. coffee with honey
    10

    3 Little Figs (Somerville – Davis Square)  

     

    Just a short stroll from Davis Square, 3 Little Figs is a beloved neighbourhood café known for its exceptional coffee and handcrafted baked goods. This cosy spot has garnered acclaim, recently being named the best brunch spot in Massachusetts by Yelp users. The café offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a menu that includes standout items like the Market sandwich—prosciutto, goat cheese, arugula, and fig jam on Iggy's Francese bread—and a variety of scones, muffins, and pastries made from locally sourced ingredients.  

    Must-Try: Greek frappé, honey latte  

     Food Pairing: Spanakopita, baklava  

    Why Go? A neighbourhood gem with Mediterranean flair. The backyard patio is a sunny oasis. Bonus: They host live music nights!  

    Location: 278 Highland Ave (Somerville, Davis Sq)  

Final Sip: Boston’s coffee culture is as rich as its brews  

From historic Italian espresso bars in the North End to sleek, third-wave roasters in Downtown Crossing, Boston’s coffee scene offers something for every caffeine lover. Whether searching for the best coffee in Boston to jumpstart your morning, a good nook to study, or a perfectly crafted pour-over, this city’s cafés deliver with passion and precision.  

Key Takeaways:  

 For Purists: George Howell Coffee and Broadsheet Coffee Roasters showcase single-origin beans with scientific care.  

 For Students/Remote Workers: Pavement Coffeehouse and Tatte offer ample Wi-Fi and seating.  

For Authentic good times: Caffè Vittoria and Thinking Cup transport you to Europe with every sip.  

For Food Pairings: Tatte’s Middle Eastern pastries and 3 Little Figs’ Greek treats elevate the experience.  

Boston’s coffee shops aren’t just places to grab a cup—they’re community hubs, creative sanctuaries, and windows into the city’s diverse neighbourhoods. So, explore, sip slowly, and let each brew tell its story. 

 

 

 

 

  

  

  

 

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