Coffee lovers, rejoice! Waco TX has some of the best coffee shops! They will delight your taste buds and fuel your caffeine cravings. Whether you’re in search of a comforting classic or an innovative coffee concoction, you’re sure to find it in this charming Texas town. I love spending time in Waco, where everything feels small and quaint, but still has amazing character and robust flavor.
Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Waco! Waco has so much to offer, and with all these great places to grab coffee, you’ll stay caffeinated!
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THRST Coffee
The word “speakeasy” is thrown around a lot these days. However, I would go as far as to compare THRST Coffee to one, but not in the way you may think.
Although you may miss it if you didn’t know it was there, owners Andreas and Bianca Zaloumis dedicate their business to not only great coffee, but also the arts and community.
THRST Coffee began as a coffee cart in downtown Waco in 2018 before becoming a brick and mortar in January 2023. You can see a photo of the original cart, taken by Andreas himself, on the wall.
The Zalousmis strive to highlight African coffees that complement the current season, such as Ugandan coffee in the fall and Ethiopian coffee in the summer.
For your at-home coffee needs, THRST Coffee also has a roastery! Join their coffee subscription to get fresh beans delivered to your home every week, two weeks, or monthly!
On the 1st Friday of the month, enjoy live music with your latte. The performers are actually independent, local musicians who come together for this night only! What a special treat! Meanwhile, you can watch a local canvas painter become inspired and create in real-time!
Then, every 3rd Thursday, a new art gallery is curated by 507 Gallery in the backroom for your viewing pleasure.
If you aren’t able to attend, you can always admire Andreas’ street style photography that’s framed on the walls.
Fabled Bookstore and Café
You could easily spend hours at Fabled Bookstore and Café, where coffee and literature intertwine. This has to be one of the best coffee shops (in my opinion), simply because of how adorable it is with all the books mixed in. I always walk out with at least one book (with ten other options on my mind that I eye-balled along the way)!
But of course, the reason you’ve come here: their coffee is phenomenal! The best part is all of their storybook inspired drinks like the Muggle Mocha, Turkish Delight, Sleeping Beauty, and more!
For the little ones, they have fun, colorful drinks like the Frobscottle, a lemonade with lime syrup and Pop Rocks, named for the BFG (the Big Friendly Giant).
Magnolia Press
Magnolia Press is a beautifully designed coffee shop inside the Magnolia Market at the Silos. Since you’re likely already visiting the Silos, an attraction Waco is best known for, this makes for the perfect coffee stop!
Grab something unique like their tres leches latte! As you can imaging, due to the Magnolia Market’s popularity among visitors, this place stays busy and parking can be tricky, especially on the weekends.
Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits
Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits serves up a unique combination of caffeinated beverages and cocktails in a hip, industrial space. Their expertly brewed coffee and creative espresso drinks are perfect for a midday pick-me-up.
Make sure to go up the interior stairs to their rooftop patio with a beautiful view of the Waco courthouse! It’s truly something special!
Not only that, but Dichotomy has unique flavors like the 1885, a Dr. Pepper with espresso over ice. Make it “animal style” by adding vanilla and half and half. I enjoy the Bluebonnet, made with blueberry syrup (they can also make into a latte). They’re always changing up their menu and adding new and unique flavors.
Be Kind Coffee Co.
Be Kind Coffee Co. is a quaint café that truly embodies its name by advocating kindness and emphasizing community. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee envelops you as soon as you walk in, and the welcoming staff are always ready with a smile.
The menu boasts a range of classic and innovative beverages, with my personal favorite being their signature honey lavender latte.
They also take their kindness beyond their shop, with a part of their proceeds going towards local charities. A visit to Be Kind Coffee Co. is not just about satisfying your caffeine needs, it’s about being part of a community that’s brewing kindness one cup at a time.
Milk Bottle Cookies
Milk Bottle Cookies is not just an ordinary cookie shop. This gem is known for serving some of the most delectable, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that go perfectly with espresso! Even though you’ll come here for the cookies, I promise you’ll be doing even better after sipping on their coffee!
BRÛ Artisan Coffee Works
For those who appreciate the fine craft of coffee making, BRÛ Artisan Coffee Works is a must-visit. Founded by Baylor grads, their dedication to fair-trade sourcing, small batch roasting, and brewing the finest organic beans is palpable in every sip.
You’ll find their permanent location inside a refurbished, antique elevator inside the historic Praetorian building at 601 Franklin Avenue.
Fun fact: their Italian espresso machines are custom-made and their in-house coffee roaster dates back to 1898!
Be sure to grab one (or eight) of Cocoamoda’s coveted truffles while you’re at it! This Texas-based, gourmet chocolate company uses fresh ingredients and the finest grade of chocolates.
With flavors like Key Lime Pie and Bourbon dusted with edible glitter, these are the perfect sweet treat to pair with your cup of coffee for that afternoon boost.
Related Post: Free Things to Do in Waco
Butter My Biscuit
This cozy breakfast spot is hidden inside King’s Landing, a local business that sells board games and themed merchandise from franchises ranging from Harry Potter to Pokémon.
Butter My Biscuit serves a variety of themed coffee drinks that blend perfectly with the atmosphere and décor of King’s Landing. Order the Princess Zelda, a mocha and lavender latte, the King Koopa, a mocha latte with nutmeg, paprika and a dash of cayenne, among others!
The back room also has retro arcade games like Pac-Man and a collection of board games you’re free to borrow while you sip on your coffee.
Common Grounds
Near Baylor University, Common Grounds is a laid-back coffee shop that doubles as a live music venue. It’s cozy and definitely a popular spot among students. But it’s not just about the coffee here — Common Grounds fosters community, making every visit special.
Their Cowboy Coffee is a collection of drinks made from their secret sauce, making them sweet and perfectly caffeinated. We tried their original “Cowboy Coffee,” which came with their secret sauce, drip coffee, and whole milk.
They also have an open, outdoor area with a concert stage and a beautiful canopy of trees. Check their website to see who may be in town performing here the next time you’re in Waco!
Pinewood Coffee Bar
Pinewood Coffee Bar offers a minimalistic and cozy space, serving meticulously crafted espresso drinks, iced loose leaf teas, sparkling teas on tap, house made syrups (including seasonal syrups that you have to try before their gone) and locally sourced pastries. The friendly baristas and relaxed vibe make Pinewood one of the best coffee shops in Waco!
Every third Tuesday, stop in with a group and compete in their Trivia Nights for the chance to win a seasonal grand prize!
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee — it’s an experience! People with intellectual and developmental disabilities run the shop and the customers love their products, but they really come in for the unique customer service experience.
This heartwarming business is the epitome of inclusivity, providing employment opportunities for those with a variety of disabilities. They demonstrate daily that they are just as capable when given a chance.
The welcoming atmosphere, combined with their delicious coffee, makes Bitty & Beau’s one of the best coffee shops in Waco.
Heritage Coffee
You can find Heritage Coffee on-site at Homestead Heritage. Located on the outskirts of Waco, you’ll find different shops selling quality, homemade goods. There’s a market, quilt barn, general store, basket shop, and cheese shop.
Pick up your favorite espresso and coffee drinks crafted with scratch-made syrups. Choose from items like the Dutch Delight, a maple pecan breve cappuccino served with a warm stroopwafel. Not one for coffee? Order a matcha, an earl grey tea, or a chai.
The interior of this coffee shop in Waco is beautiful! There’s lots of natural lighting leaking in through its wall of windows and on to its contrasting wooden furniture. Whether you’re looking for some good coffee or making a stop before wandering around Homestead Heritage, this is undoubtedly one of the best coffee shops in Waco!
Casa Kumwesu
A stay at our Airbnb, the Ice Cream House at Casa Kumwesu (click here to book), means you’re always seconds away from the perfect coffee no matter what you prefer.
As a lover of coffee, I wanted guests to have a unique experience at our home as well. The layout itself is one of my favorites! The design is meant to feel like you’re eating or drinking coffee at an ice cream counter.
We wanted to consider every type of coffee drinker so we have a large range of options — a Nespresso, Keurig, French Press, Italian Coffee Maker, a traditional coffee pot, and Chemex. Of course we also have tea and hot cocoa for our guests, as well as flavorings and syrups so you can craft your own coffee concoction!
Best Places for Coffee in Waco: Final Thoughts
So, the next time you’re in Waco TX, and find yourself in need of a caffeine fix, make sure to check out these fabulous coffee shops (and all the amazing things to do in Waco). You won’t be disappointed!
Last Updated 7 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: July 26, 2023
