by Maggie Schneider
My name is Maggie Schneider and I’m addicted to coffee. Cold brew, caramel macchiatos, iced vanilla lattes – you name it, I’ll drink it. I relate to Lorelai Gilmore and her love of caffeine on a spiritual level.
For me, drinking coffee is a social activity — one that I enjoy sharing with friends. We don’t just hang out at the nearest Starbucks. We like to find unique coffee shops around town. There are so many local cafes that have great coffee and inspiring atmospheres. Why wouldn’t you try something new?
Here are my top five favorite coffee shops in Atlanta.
Hodgepodge Coffeehouse and Gallery
720 Moreland Ave. SE
Try: Mocha Caliente – Ghiradelli chocolate, cinnamon and a hint of cayenne
This is the most artistic and creative coffee shop that I have ever been in. Located on Moreland Avenue, Hodgepodge Coffeehouse is a space that celebrates my two loves — art and coffee. They hold open mics, art openings and support the work of local artists. Creatives can submit their pieces to be sold and/or showcased inside, which is part of the allure of the shop. The entire exterior is covered with beautiful graffiti that has changed over time. To top it all off, the coffee and pastries are delicious.
Octane Coffee Bar
1280 W Peachtree St. NE, Suite 100-A
Try: Nitro Cold Brew
If you’re looking for a modern coffeehouse to chill in, then Octane Coffee is perfect for you. It’s a shop where you can meet your friends or enjoy some alone time and work on your laptop. Its interior design is minimalistic and the coffee menu is simple but comforting. It’s in the heart of the city, which may inspire you to write or get creative. Octane was also prominently featured in the 2017 film, “Baby Driver.”
READ Shop by the Merchant
4300 Paces Ferry Rd. SE, #125
Try: Pumpkin Latte
Books and coffee go hand in hand, which is what makes READ feel like home! From the moment you step inside, you feel like you’re in your own Hallmark movie. The cute bookstore displays a variety of novels, coffee table books, cookbooks, magazines and more. Looking through the shelves is a relaxing way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Café Intermezzo
1065 Peachtree St. NE
Try: The Café Intermezzo – espresso with steamed cream, essence of almond, cocoa powder and almond slices
This is the perfect spot for a date night or a nice brunch with friends. Café Intermezzo has the authentic atmosphere of a 300-year-old European coffeehouse; their menu includes a wide range of coffees, pastries and breakfast items. At the Peachtree Street location, you may spot a celebrity or two at the bar – Chad Michael Murray, Mark Ruffalo and Lamorne Morris have all been seen enjoying themselves in this café.
Cool Beans Coffee Roasters
31 Mill St.
Marietta, GA 30060
Try: Costa Rica – Naranjo La Rosa Blend
One of my best friends introduced me to Cool Beans Coffee Roasters, and I kept going back. Located in Marietta Square, the coffee spot is known for its award-winning blends from Costa Rica, Columbia, Ethiopia and more. They are 100% arabica and sold at lower prices for more coffee lovers to enjoy. The atmosphere is open and relaxed. I’d recommend sitting on the patio.
