There’s something special about a coffee house that transforms a caffeine run into an experience to savor. Whether you’re drawn to a cozy nook for reading or a sunny patio buzzing with energy, you’ll find a coffee shop that fits the bill in Greater Phoenix. These five gems are more than places to grab a quick coffee — they’re where locals head to savor good vibes.
aFlourshop
At this downtown Phoenix hot spot, the display of gorgeous pastries — works of art, each of them — will stop you in your tracks. But it’s not just the beautiful treats that make aFlourshop unique. Big windows and high ceilings flood the brick-walled space with sunlight, tempting you to linger with a book and a cappuccino in a fern-filled corner or gather friends at the community table for iced teas and good conversation.
Must-try: The sweet and spicy Honey Cinnamon Latte, crafted with Arizona honey, a hint of cinnamon and house-made syrup.
Berdena's
A relaxing respite from the bustle of Old Town Scottsdale, Berdena’s serves up chic style that is sure to inspire you to snap a photo or two. With its modern design, subway-tiled walls and white marble countertops, every angle of the café is thoughtfully curated. Though the interior is lovely, we recommend enjoying your caffeinated beverage on the front patio. It’s ideal for Saturday-morning people watching.
Must try: The Matcha Latte, made with tea leaves grown on the hillsides of Japan and served as a pure tea or blended into a velvety latte.
Caffio Espresso
Nestled in the Grand Avenue Arts District in downtown Phoenix, Caffio Espresso strikes a balance between effortlessly cool and totally welcoming. Housed in a 1985 VespaCar — a three-wheeled Italian vehicle — at the flora-filled plant nursery Pueblo Life, Caffio Espresso’s baristas whip up all manner of Italian coffee classics, everything from rich cortados to silky lattes to straight espresso shots.
Must-try: The Onyx Delight, a bold blend of espresso, honey and vanilla bean with a dash of cinnamon.
Case Study Coffee Lounge
Walking into Case Study feels like stepping back in time — in the best way possible. This spot in the Biltmore-area of Phoenix has a retro flair that leans mid-century. Think clean lines and warm wood tones. Owner (and woodworker) William Douglas designed and built all the furniture; every seat at Case Study quite literally feels like the best in the house.
Must-try: The earthy Brown Sugar Sage, a choice of espresso or matcha paired with a sage-infused brown sugar syrup, then blended with creamy milk.
Jasmine Jo
Part coffee shop, part flower bar, part quirky café with an English tearoom sensibility, Jasmine Jo’s homey space feels like a warm hug. This Tempe spot invites guests to stay awhile with its charming décor of pink bistro chairs, soft lighting and flowers, flowers, flowers everywhere. Tea-lovers will appreciate the robust selection, from classic steeped varieties to inventive tea lattes.
Must-try: The decadently delicate Rose Cake, a blend of white mocha and raspberry.
Michelle Jacoby
Michelle Jacoby is a James Beard Award-nominated writer and content producer. An almost-Arizona native (she's lived here for 30 years), she is a former editor at The Arizona Republic and has written for several local and national publications. Michelle is also the publisher of BITE Magazine, an online publication that celebrates Arizona's food, drink and maker communities.
