the 7 best coffee shops in Houston
I fell in love with coffee in 2009, when I ordered my first espresso at Catalina Coffee. I had no idea that coffee could taste like that! It completely changed my world and sparked my obsession with high-quality coffee.
Back when I was a wine rep, I spent my days out and about- hopping between restaurants, wine bars, and coffee shops. That’s how my love affair with coffee began to brew.
Below are my favorite local coffee shops in Houston.
1. Catalina Coffee- First Ward Art District
Catalina Coffee started the coffee revolution in Houston. Established in 2007, Catalina is the first quality coffee house in Houston. Max Gonzalez, the owner also roasts his own beans via Catalina’s sister company, Amaya Coffee. This coffee is life changing hence the dozens of micro coffee shops that have opened in the following 15 years. You can find Amaya Roasting Company’s beans all over town. Buy a bag. You’ll be happy you did.
I ordered my first Catalina Coffee latte in 2009, and then couldn’t resist a shot of espresso, because it was just that good. Not only did it seduce my taste buds, but it felt like rocket fuel coursing through my veins. I was wired for the rest of the afternoon. I was hooked.
Warning! Once you do you won’t be able to drink the rough, burned stuff anymore (unless it’s life or death and you need caffeine to exist). Even then it will be a challenge after you’ve tasted the good stuff.
Confession: After two kids and countless half-caff’s during both of my pregnancies, my body said, “Nope – coffee’s too much” Enter London Fogs. Smooth, comforting, with just the right pick me up from the Earl Grey Tea. I sip one, or sometimes two – every day, and honestly, they’ve stolen my heart.
Bittersweet as it was to say goodbye to coffee, London Fog’s have filled my heart with happiness. On the brilliant advice of their baristas, I swapped the vanilla syrup for the lavender and wow, pure magic. Somehow, it’s reminiscent of fruity pebbles ( one of my favorite childhood smells). Ratatouille vibes anyone? I have an entire article, called How to Taste Wine highlighting the Ratatouille clip in case you need a refresher.
I drink mine hot – but if you’re in the hot Houston weather, they are just as magical iced.
Hours: M-F: 6:30 am – 7 pm
Sat – Sun: 7:30 am – 7 pm
“Quality is never an accident. It is always the result of intelligent effort.”
john ruskin
2. boom town in the heights
Amazing coffee, a pet friendly outdoor patio, and a laid back setting to do some shopping or people watching in the Heights on 19th. They feature local artwork on the walls with plenty of electrical outlets for you chronic coffee dwellers. They roast their own coffee, make their own syrups AND they have a downtown location called Understory.
If you are a breakfast taco fan, then consider trying the Boomtown breakfast taco. The food menu is great and has something for everyone.
Confession: I had a serious addiction to their milk and honey latte for a while.
Hours: 7 am – 7 pm
This newish coffee shop on Milam and Elgin is light, airy, and delicious! Un Caffe was founded by Soonkack Kook, coffee specialist. The menu features light bites. If you’re on the go, order your coffee to go with curbside pick up.
It features plenty of outlets and a cozy spot to meet with friends, spend some solo time or be productive.
Hours: Mon – Sun: 7 am – 5 pm
4. dandelion cafe in bellaire
This is one that’s been around for almost six years and I just recently ventured into it. I am so glad that I did! While the coffee (and the avocado toast) is amazing, I love the decor. It’s bright, filled with natural light, and filled with gorgeous paper flowers everywhere. It’s a good family spot!
This is where I had my first London Fog! I will forever be grateful to the Dandelion Cafe for introducing me to London Fogs.
Hours: 7 am – 4 pm
5. brass tacks in EaDo
Brass Tacks opened in EaDO in August of 2020 and offers a full food and cocktail menu.
If you’re a plant lover, you’ll feel right at home with it’s tall widows and beautiful natural light.
It’s pet-friendly, has plenty of outdoor seating, and is a great place to work with individual work spaces.
Hours: Sun – Thurs: 7 am – 10 pm
Fri – Sat: 7 am – 12 am
6. retrospect coffee bar in midtown
Retrospect is located in an old 1920’s gas station in EaDo, next to Axelrad Beef Garden. It’s across the street from the downtown Houston Community College (HCC). Retrospect was a life saver during the pandemic thanks to their outdoor ordering and delivery window. It’s dog friendly with ample covered seating in the front and back.
Their sweet and savory crepes are full-flavored. The Janis Joplin is a must-try drizzled with both sriracha and the balsamic. If crepes aren’t your thing, you can find the usual pastries or breakfast tacos.
Bonus: You receive a discount for walking or biking to their location.
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 6:30 am – 10 pm
Friday: 6:30 am -12 am
Saturday: 7:30 am – 12 am
Sunday: 7:30 am – 10 pm
Enjoy delicious coffee and learn more about the process of creating the coffee that is in your cup. Duo offers a Latte Art Class and how to make high-quality coffee at home.
Enjoy breakfast tacos, pastries and paninis. Parking is easy and plentiful. It’s a great spot to plug in and get some work done. They have lounge areas perfect for business meetings or catching up with friends.
Hours: M – F: 7 am – 8 pm
Sat – Sun: 8 am – 6 pm
it's more than coffee
My favorite coffee shops listed here “made the cut” because of the feel of the place. The people are warm and welcoming, and that makes the coffee taste even better.
more to come
I’ll update this post with more of the awesome coffee spots around town every so often. Give them a try and let us know what you think!
