Whether you live in San Antonio or are just visiting, finding a great coffee shop is always a good idea. The city has a mix of cozy cafés and local spots where you can grab a delicious cup of coffee. From locally roasted beans to chill spaces, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee to go or a quiet place to relax, San Antonio has you covered. You can find cafés near famous spots like the River Walk or hidden gems tucked away in cool neighborhoods. Let’s dive into the best coffee shops around town.
Local Coffee Founders
Local Coffee started in San Antonio and grew to Austin and Dallas, with its first shop in the Pearl District. The owners gained fans with their tasty cappuccino and fresh pastries. People enjoy sitting on the sidewalk patio while shoppers stop by for a quick break. Inside, the shop has a clean look with white subway tiles and large windows. In 2020, new ownership changed the name to Merit Coffee, but the warm feeling remains.
Merit Coffee
In San Antonio, Merit Coffee is a great spot for a coffee date or to get some work done. Their beautiful cafés have friendly baristas who make really good coffee. They roast their own beans, so everything tastes fresh. It’s a nice place to chat with a friend or just enjoy some quiet time. The internet is fast and reliable, making it easy to focus. Plus, their pastries are perfect with your drink!
Halcyon – Southtown
Halcyon in San Antonio’s Blue Star Arts District is great for a morning cup of joe or an iced coffee. The place has an industrial feel with brick walls and exposed ceilings but is made lively with bright colors. It’s got the coolest vibes for both day and night. You can enjoy coffee drinks or cocktails during happy hour like their $6 mango chile margaritas. If you’re hungry, they serve tasty meals like brisket fried rice and pulled pork pineapple tacos, and their full bar is always stocked. Try the tabletop s’mores to end your day.
CommonWealth Coffeehouse & Bakery
CommonWealth Coffeehouse is a cozy spot in San Antonio that feels like home. Set in a charming 1800s chic cottage, this place has a relaxed rustic/chic vibe. With multiple locations, it’s great for a quick cup or sitting down for a full meal like breakfast, brunch, or lunch. You can enjoy indoor/outdoor seating while trying their homemade pastries or a Croque Madame made with black forest ham, parm béchamel, and fontina cheese on homemade French bread. The fresh eggs from their own hens in the backyard make everything taste even better.
Shotgun House Coffee Roasters
Shotgun House Coffee Roasters in San Antonio is great for serious coffee lovers. They roast their own coffee beans and you can grab a bag to take home. The shop is inside Warehouse 5, an old sewing factory, and has a cool mix of spots to sit, whether you like couches, tables, or even the outdoor garden. With wifi and plenty of room, it’s a nice place to bring your laptop and get work done while enjoying the fresh air.
Mila Coffee
Mila Coffee began as a small coffee trailer at Brackenridge Park and now has a second location at Make Ready Market. This new brick and mortar spot serves Tweed coffee roasters from Dallas, loved by the San Antonio locals. It’s a casual place where you can enjoy a cold brew or a cup of coffee while sitting outside in the nice weather. With both indoor and outdoor seating, plus nearby spots like Mister Diablo Taco Truck and Bexar Goods Co, it’s perfect for a relaxing day.
Estate Coffee Company
Estate Coffee Company is a small-batch coffee roaster in downtown San Antonio. It’s known for being one of the best coffee shops in the area. The shop is run by family-owned importers who source the best coffee beans and roast in-house. The space is simple with tables and chairs in a rectangular cafe setup. They have a wholesale coffee program and a small espresso bar. Locals love their latte and the modern but adorable space. It’s a place where patrons come for great coffee and a cozy vibe.
PRESS Coffee
PRESS Coffee has always been a local favorite. The second location in Castle Hills keeps the same cool, laid-back vibe as the original shop. Its multi-level seating, big windows, and lots of greenery make it a cozy hangout. They serve tasty homemade pastries, good coffee, and tea. The place also has free wifi for anyone wanting to relax or get some work done. If you’re into fresh brews, the Northside location even lets you set up a customizable coffee subscription, so you can pick the type of coffee, bag size, and when it gets delivered, keeping your supply of freshly-roasted coffee going all year.
What’s Brewing
If you’re in San Antonio and looking for great coffee, check out What’s Brewing?. Open since 1979, this local spot is known for roasting their own beans right on the premises. You can hang out with friends, play pinball or board games, and enjoy the fun party vibe. They also have a drive-thru for quick stops. Or visit them at the Pearl Farmers Market on Saturday and Sunday mornings to grab some of the best roasted coffee in town.
Theory Coffee
Theory Coffee is a popular coffee trailer in San Antonio, serving some of the best traditional coffee. Their classic menu has simple favorites like espresso, cappuccino, and drip coffee. The owner, Mark Vollmer, studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Austin, TX, and makes sure every cup is made with care. The beans come from Wild Gift Coffee Roasters in Austin, TX, so you know the coffee is high quality. This small trailer delivers big flavor and sets a high standard for coffee shops.
Poetic Republic Coffee
Poetic Republic Coffee on S. Presa has been a cozy spot since it opened in 2019. It has a quaint, small-town feel, a bit like Stars Hollow, with its charming interior decor and open books on the walls. Their coffee is special, especially with the hand-made syrups. What makes it different are the artsy events like poetry nights, giving it a relaxed vibe. This place is a real coffee gem in the city.
Southbound Coffee
Southbound Coffee is a bright pink trailer in Southtown San Antonio. It’s known for its photo-worthy coffee drinks and breakfast tacos at excellent prices. You can order ahead with mobile ordering and quickly pick up your coffee. Favorites include the Dirty Horchata Latte and sweet matcha latte, both great for something new. The spot is fun and has a seasonal menu that keeps things interesting. There’s free street parking on Cevallos Street and a paid lot nearby if you can’t find a spot near the apartment complex.
Bright Coffee
In Beacon Hill, near Blanco Center, Bright Coffee opened in early 2022 and quickly became a neighborhood favorite. The owners love coffee, art, and swing dancing. They source their beans from Estate Coffee Company and offer both traditional coffeehouse drinks and unique choices like the banana milk latte and black sesame latte. The café also showcases local artists and hosts lindy hop lessons at night. With a warm seating area and a focus on supporting local businesses and the arts, it’s a place where people come together for more than just java.
Stranded Coffee
In Southtown, Stranded Coffee is a simple coffee trailer on S. Alamo and E. Johnson that locals love. It’s perfect for grabbing a quick coffee on the run, especially when you’re short on time. There’s no indoor seating, but you can relax under the colorful umbrellas outside if the weather is good. Try Maribel’s drink with cinnamon vanilla syrup, oat milk, and a touch of cinnamon dust. Whether you like your espresso hot or iced, you can order ahead on their website. Parking can be tricky, but you’ll find some on the residential streets near E. Johnson.
Vice Versa
When you walk into a coffee shop in St. Paul Square, it feels fresh and cool. The hip aesthetic makes you feel like the main character in an artsy movie. Grab a Safe Bet latte or an iced vanilla latte, with your choice of milk. There’s a mix of tables and soft couches for you to sit, plus a cool record collection to browse. It’s a low-key spot with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for hanging out or just enjoying some good coffee. It’s trendy, but not in your face.
Niche Coffee
In downtown San Antonio, you’ll find small spots like Quantum Coffee Roasters, a cozy specialty shop. This small cafe has a few tables and offers free WIFI and refrigerated snacks. Their espresso bar serves everything from cappuccinos to drip coffee and cold brew. They also have lattes with different milk options. If you’re in the mood for something unique, try their seasonal specialty drinks like the roasted hazelnut latte or the chocolate-caramel latte, made with their fresh beans.
Folklores Coffee House
Folklores Coffee House is a quirky coffee shop on N. New Braunfels, right by Fort Sam Houston’s entrance. It’s a hit with military families and those stationed nearby because of its proximity to the base. The place has a funky, fun vibe with vintage horror movie signs, including a giant man-eating plant from Little Shop of Horrors.
They give discounts to service members, first responders, and teachers. You can enjoy breakfast, brunch, and specialty coffee, like the banana milk with cinnamon and caramel drizzle by Sheena. Be prepared, though, as parking can be a bit tough with a small lot and some street spots on Grayson, shared with nearby businesses and apartments.
Philo Çoffee
Philo Çoffee is a cozy spot near San Antonio College, just a few blocks away. It’s in an old home with wooden floors, giving it a nice, vintage charm. The place smells amazing, and it’s a favorite hangout for college students and locals. They have a wide variety of coffees, teas, and snacks. The barista is always ready to help you find your favorite drink, and they even serve beer and wine. It’s a quiet neighborhood spot that’s perfect for relaxing.
Early Bird Coffee Co.
Early Bird Coffee Co. started in a silver airstream trailer and now has a popular storefront at Huebner Oaks shopping center. The shop has a loyal group of customers who love the quality coffee and laid-back vibes. It’s also a favorite for those looking for an Instagrammable spot. Whether you’re grabbing your morning coffee or hanging out with friends, this place always excels at making you feel welcome.
FAQ
Many coffee shops in San Antonio, like Merit Coffee and Local Coffee, offer free Wi-Fi and ample seating. Look for spots with a quiet atmosphere, such as Estate Coffee Company in Southtown.
Yes, several coffee shops like Merit Coffee and What’s Brewing roast their own beans, offering fresh, locally roasted coffee right in San Antonio.
Many coffee shops, especially in the Pearl District and Alamo Heights, have great outdoor seating options. Halcyon and Shotgun House Coffee are popular choices.
Yes, many coffee shops, like Revolución Coffee + Juice and Commonwealth Coffeehouse, offer vegan milk alternatives and gluten-free snacks. Always ask, as options can vary by location.