Sip, Relax, Repeat: Top Coffee Shops You Must Visit This Month:

Coffee shops are more than just places to grab a quick caffeine fix—they’re sanctuaries for creativity, community, and comfort. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler seeking authentic spots, here are some of the best coffee shops to visit this month.

1. Q Specialty Coffee – San Francisco, CA:

Located at 3490 California Street in San Francisco, Q Specialty Coffee is a recent addition to the city’s coffee scene. Founded by seasoned restaurateur Cyrus Shen, the café blends high-level coffee expertise with trendy, Instagram-friendly drinks. The menu features rare single-origin beans, nitro cold brews with fruit infusions, and creative matcha drinks. Designed with minimal, third-wave café aesthetics resembling Berlin’s The Barn, the café emphasizes transparency and storytelling behind the beans. It’s a vibrant addition for discerning coffee and tea lovers.

2. Merit Coffee Co. – Houston, TX:

San Antonio-based Merit Coffee Co. is expanding into Houston with two new locations set to open in early 2026. The cafés will be situated inside the Loop: one in the revamped Swift Building in Houston Heights and the other in the former Starbucks space at Terrace Shops near Buffalo Speedway and U.S. Route 59. Known for its emphasis on unique architecture tailored to each neighborhood and specialty coffee sourced globally, Merit Coffee Co. offers a community-focused café experience.

3. Neil’s Donuts – Wallingford, CT:

Neil’s Donuts, established in 2001, is a Connecticut-based coffee shop that has been named one of the top 100 coffee shops in the U.S. for 2025 by Yelp. The shop boasts an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 760 reviews. Known for its doughnuts, Neil’s has previously been recognized by Food & Wine magazine and Tasting Table for having some of the best doughnuts in the country. It’s a must-visit spot for both coffee and pastry enthusiasts.

4. Café du Monde – New Orleans, LA:

Café du Monde is a renowned open-air coffee shop located on Decatur Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Established in 1862, it is a New Orleans landmark and tourist destination, known for its café au lait and beignets. The café offers a casual atmosphere with seating available both indoors and outdoors, allowing patrons to enjoy their coffee while people-watching in the vibrant French Quarter.

5. Truth Coffee Roasting – Cape Town, South Africa:

Truth Coffee Roasting, situated in Cape Town’s CBD, was voted Best Coffee Shop in the World in 2015 and 2016 by the UK’s Daily Telegraph. Known for its steampunk-inspired interior and commitment to quality, the café offers expertly brewed coffee in a unique setting. It’s a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts exploring Cape Town.

6. Espresso Lab – Cape Town, South Africa:

Espresso Lab, established in 2009, was voted the 11th best coffee shop in the world and the best in Africa by the World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops’ 2025 ranking. The café is known for its minimalist design and focus on quality, offering a range of specialty coffee drinks. It’s a top choice for those seeking a refined coffee experience in Cape Town.

7. Algerian Coffee Stores – London, UK:

Established in 1887, Algerian Coffee Stores is the oldest coffee shop in London, located at 52 Old Compton Street in Soho. Known for its wide selection of coffee and tea, the store offers a nostalgic experience with its vintage décor and rich history. Despite its age, it remains one of the world’s leading suppliers of tea and coffee, providing a unique blend of tradition and quality.

8. Sky Coffee Co. – Santa Fe, NM:

Sky Coffee Co. offers a cozy meeting space and warm patio that puts you in the middle of things now that the Railyard is shaping up as a true destination. It’s as good a primer for a drink at As Above, So Below as for a movie at Violet Crown, and offers an alternative to the (also noteworthy) Farmers’ Market coffee bar, Cafe Fresh. If you like pretty, spotless spaces, you’ll find this little joint pleasing. Don’t miss their mocha, which they make with Kakawa chocolate.

9. Mundos Roasting Co. – Traverse City, MI:

Mundos Roasting Co. has three convenient locations in Traverse City, offering a cozy atmosphere and a variety of coffee options. Known for their in-house made syrups, the café offers unique drinks like the strawberry matcha and coconut latte. The aesthetic is cute, and the staff is friendly, making it a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.

10. The Shop – Spokane, WA:

The Shop is a funky coffee shop located in Spokane, offering a unique atmosphere with live music, local art, and a variety of coffee options. The seating includes church benches, adding to the eclectic vibe. While the music can be a bit loud, the friendly staff and in-house baked goods make up for it, creating a lively and welcoming environment.

Tips for Enjoying Your Coffee Shop Visits:

• Timing Matters: Visit during off-peak hours to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

• Explore Local Favorites: Seek out local cafés to experience authentic flavors and unique brews.

• Engage with Baristas: Don’t hesitate to ask baristas for recommendations or information about the beans and brewing methods.

• Support Small Businesses: Purchasing food or drinks from the café helps support the establishment and ensures they continue to provide a conducive environment for work and study.