As a coffee lover living in Upstate New York, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring many of the region’s unique coffee shops. From cozy cafes to trendy roasteries, there’s no shortage of options for those seeking a caffeine fix. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top picks for the 7 best coffee shops in Upstate New York.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these coffee shops are worth a visit. Each one offers something special, from artisanal brews to mouth-watering pastries. So, grab your favorite mug and join me as we explore some of the best coffee shops Upstate New York has to offer.
1) Lumber Jack’s Coffee And Snacks
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Lumber Jack’s Coffee And Snacks in Hoosick Falls, NY and it’s safe to say that this coffee shop is a must-visit for any coffee lover in Upstate New York. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfect for a morning coffee or an afternoon pick-me-up.
The coffee itself is some of the best I’ve ever had. The bold, full-bodied flavor with a smooth low acidic finish is a testament to the quality of the beans they use. Whether you prefer a classic drip coffee or a fancy latte, Lumber Jack’s has got you covered.
In addition to their amazing coffee, Lumber Jack’s also offers a variety of snacks and baked goods. I highly recommend trying their homemade pastries, they’re simply delicious.
Rating: 4.9 (567 reviews)
Location: 5103 NY-7, Hoosick Falls, NY 12090
Contact: (518) 205-5503
Website: http://www.lumberjackscoffee.com/
2) Professor Java’s Coffee Sanctuary
I recently visited Professor Java’s Coffee Sanctuary and was impressed by the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. The coffee shop is located in the Shopper’s Plaza on Wolf Road in Albany, NY, making it a convenient stop for locals and travelers alike.
What sets Professor Java’s apart from other coffee shops is the variety of rooms available for patrons to enjoy. Whether you want to have a meeting, study, read a book, or just relax, there is a space for you. The coffeehouse also offers meeting rooms for company meetings, lead groups, and lunch meetings, as well as private parties for bridal showers, baby showers, and birthday parties.
The menu at Professor Java’s includes vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great spot for those with dietary restrictions. I highly recommend trying their baked goods, which are delicious and freshly made. The coffee is also excellent, with a wide range of options to choose from.
Rating: 4.4 (1294 reviews)
Location: In the Shopper’s Plaza, 145 Wolf Rd, Albany, NY 12205
Contact: (518) 435-0843
Website: http://professorjavas.com/
3) Ugly Duck Coffee
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Ugly Duck Coffee, a cozy little coffee shop located in the heart of Rochester’s East End. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly baristas and the delicious aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The shop has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of seating options for both individuals and groups.
One of the things I loved about Ugly Duck Coffee is their commitment to serving high-quality coffee. They partner with local and guest roasters to offer a variety of unique and delicious coffee blends. Each drink is expertly crafted to highlight the unique characteristics of the coffee, making for a truly enjoyable experience.
In addition to their coffee, Ugly Duck Coffee also offers a selection of local baked goods and snacks. I highly recommend trying their Spicy Eyes drink, which combines espresso, steamed milk, chocolate, and a spicy kick from their Holy Kakow Mexican Chocolate Sauce.
Rating: 4.7 (680 reviews)
Location: 89 Charlotte St, Rochester, NY 14607
Contact: [email protected]
Website: Visit Website
4) Greater Things Roasters
As a coffee lover, I was excited to visit Greater Things Roasters in Coxsackie, NY. The atmosphere was warm and cozy, with comfortable seating and a rustic decor that made me feel right at home. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans filled the air, and I couldn’t wait to try a cup.
I was impressed by the variety of coffee beans available at Greater Things Roasters. They source their beans from all over the world, from Central and South America to Africa and Indonesia. Each region produces a unique flavor profile, and the staff was knowledgeable about the different beans and brewing methods.
I ordered a latte made with their house blend, and it was delicious. The coffee was smooth and rich, with a hint of chocolate and caramel. The latte art on top was a nice touch and showed the barista’s attention to detail.
Rating: 4.8 (76 reviews)
Location: 10 Hope Plaza, Coxsackie, NY 12192
Contact: (518) 965-8967
Website: Visit Website
Overall, I highly recommend Greater Things Roasters for anyone looking for a great cup of coffee in Upstate New York. The friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and delicious coffee make it a must-visit for coffee lovers.
5) Graham’s Coffee Parlor
I recently visited Graham’s Coffee Parlor, and it quickly became one of my favorite coffee shops in Upstate New York. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with comfortable seating and plenty of natural light. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they take pride in their craft.
One thing that sets Graham’s apart is their commitment to using real, high-quality ingredients. From their specialty coffee drinks to their house-made flavors and from-scratch baked goods, everything is made with care and attention to detail. I highly recommend trying one of their smoothies, which are made with fresh fruit and yogurt.
Graham’s is also a great place to work or study. They have plenty of outlets and free Wi-Fi, and the noise level is just right for productivity without being too quiet or too loud. Plus, the comfortable seating and warm atmosphere make it easy to settle in and get work done.
Rating: 4.8 (291 reviews)
Location: 3406 State St, Schenectady, NY 12304
Contact: (518) 527-1202
Website: https://www.grahamscoffeeparlor.com/
6) Daily Grind
I recently visited Daily Grind and was impressed by the quality of their coffee. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans hits you as soon as you walk in, and the cozy ambiance makes it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your cup of coffee. They offer a wide variety of coffee beans and loose leaf teas to choose from, and their knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you find the perfect blend.
One thing that stood out to me was the selection of housemade soups and sandwiches. They were delicious and complemented the coffee perfectly. The chill space with free WiFi made it a great spot to work or study, and I found myself spending hours there without even realizing it.
Rating: 4.5 (449 reviews)
Location: 204 Lark St, Albany, NY 12210
Contact: (518) 427-0464
Website: Visit Website
Overall, Daily Grind is a must-visit for any coffee lover in Upstate New York. The combination of great coffee, delicious food, and a cozy ambiance make it a perfect spot to spend an afternoon. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the prices are reasonable. I’ll definitely be returning to Daily Grind on my next visit to Albany.
7) Hudson Roastery
I recently visited Hudson Roastery and was blown away by their fresh roasted artisanal coffee. The small batch roasting ensures ultimate freshness, and each blend has a distinctive flavor profile. They source their coffee responsibly from plantations all over the world, so you know you’re getting a quality cup of coffee.
One of their featured coffees is the Monsooned Malabar Coffee – Hendrick Hudson. This unique coffee is washed by Monsoon winds and rains, producing a pH neutral non-acidic brew. It’s full-bodied and creamy with complex bakers’ chocolate and almond notes. I tried it as a cold brew, which they serve in their café, and it was delicious.
The atmosphere at Hudson Roastery is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and catch up with friends. They’re open seven days a week, so you can get your coffee fix any day of the week. Overall, I highly recommend checking out Hudson Roastery if you’re ever in the area.
Rating: 4.6 (216 reviews)
Location: 4 Park Pl, Hudson, NY 12534
Contact: (518) 697-5633
Website: https://hudsonroastery.com/
Coffee Culture in Upstate New York
As a coffee enthusiast, I have explored various coffee shops in Upstate New York and have noticed the unique coffee culture in the region. Upstate New York has a rich history of coffee consumption and has been a hub for coffee shops for many years. In this section, I will discuss the history of coffee in the region and local coffee trends.
History of Coffee in the Region
Coffee has been an essential part of Upstate New York’s culture since the early 1900s. The region has a long history of coffee production, and many coffee shops in the area roast their beans locally. The Finger Lakes region, in particular, is known for its coffee roasters, which range from small artisanal shops to larger operations that supply a broader region. These roasters are known for their meticulous bean selection and precision in roasting, often using state-of-the-art technology.
Local Coffee Trends
In recent years, Upstate New York has seen a surge in specialty coffee shops that offer unique coffee blends and brewing methods. Many coffee shops in the region focus on sustainable and ethical sourcing of their coffee beans. They also offer a variety of non-dairy milk options for customers who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
One popular trend in Upstate New York’s coffee scene is the slow bar, which features manual brewing methods, such as pour-over and French press. This method of brewing allows customers to experience the full flavor profile of the coffee beans and is favored by many coffee enthusiasts.
Another trend is coffee and food pairing. Many coffee shops in the region offer food items that complement their coffee blends, such as pastries, sandwiches, and salads. This trend has been embraced by both coffee lovers and foodies, making coffee shops a popular destination for brunch and lunch.
Overall, Upstate New York’s coffee culture is vibrant and diverse. From traditional coffee blends to unique brewing methods and food pairings, there is something for every coffee enthusiast in the region.
Unique Features of Upstate New York Coffee Shops
As a coffee lover, I have visited many coffee shops in Upstate New York and have noticed some unique features that set them apart from coffee shops in other regions. In this section, I will highlight two of these features: Ambiance and Decor, and Specialty Drinks and Signature Blends.
Ambiance and Decor
Coffee shops in Upstate New York are known for their cozy and inviting atmosphere. Many of them have rustic decor with wooden furniture, exposed brick walls, and dim lighting, giving them a warm and welcoming feel. Some coffee shops have a vintage vibe with antique furnishings, while others have a modern and minimalist design. The ambiance and decor of these coffee shops create a relaxing environment where customers can enjoy their coffee and socialize with friends.
Specialty Drinks and Signature Blends
One of the unique features of Upstate New York coffee shops is their specialty drinks and signature blends. Many coffee shops offer unique and creative drinks that are not available at other coffee shops. For example, some coffee shops offer lavender lattes, maple mochas, and honey cinnamon cappuccinos. These specialty drinks are made with high-quality ingredients and are carefully crafted to provide a unique and flavorful experience.
In addition to specialty drinks, many coffee shops in Upstate New York have their own signature blends of coffee. These blends are made with a combination of different coffee beans and are roasted in-house to create a unique flavor profile. Some coffee shops even offer coffee tastings, where customers can sample different blends and learn about the roasting process.
Overall, the ambiance and decor, as well as the specialty drinks and signature blends, make Upstate New York coffee shops a must-visit destination for coffee lovers.
Supporting Local Roasters
As a coffee enthusiast, I understand the importance of supporting local roasters. Not only does it help the local economy, but it also ensures that you get the freshest and highest quality beans possible. In this section, I will discuss the benefits of local sourcing and highlight some popular local roasters in Upstate New York.
Benefits of Local Sourcing
When you buy coffee from a local roaster, you are supporting a small business in your community. This helps to create jobs and strengthen the local economy. Additionally, local roasters are often more transparent about their sourcing and production methods, so you can have a better understanding of where your coffee comes from.
Another benefit of local sourcing is that you can get fresher beans. Local roasters often roast their beans in small batches, which means that you can get beans that are just a few days old. This is important because coffee beans start to lose their freshness as soon as they are roasted. By buying from a local roaster, you can ensure that you are getting the freshest coffee possible.
Popular Local Roasters
There are many great local roasters in Upstate New York. Here are a few that I recommend:
- Gimme! Coffee: This Ithaca-based roaster has been around since 2000 and has won numerous awards for their coffee. They source their beans directly from farmers and roast them in small batches.
- Fuego Coffee Roasters: Based in Rochester, Fuego is known for their high-quality, specialty coffee. They source their beans from around the world and roast them in small batches to bring out the unique flavors of each bean.
- Joe Bean Coffee Roasters: Another Rochester-based roaster, Joe Bean is committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing. They roast their beans in small batches and offer a wide variety of single-origin and blended coffees.
By supporting local roasters like these, you can enjoy delicious coffee while also supporting your community.
