Nashville, Tennessee, is known for its vibrant music scene, historic landmarks, and Southern hospitality. But beyond the country music and hot chicken, the city has a thriving coffee culture that rivals some of the best coffee destinations in the country. Whether you’re a visitor looking for a cozy spot to fuel up before exploring Broadway or a local in search of your new favorite hangout, Nashville’s coffee scene has something for everyone.
From third-wave coffee roasters to laid-back neighborhood cafés, here are the best coffee shops in Nashville.
Barista Parlor
Location: Various locations (East Nashville, Germantown, Marathon Village, Golden Sound, Sylvan Supply)
Vibe: Trendy, spacious, and artsy
Best for: A high-end coffee experience with a focus on craftsmanship
Barista Parlor is a Nashville institution, known for its meticulous approach to coffee brewing and unique, hipster-friendly ambiance. Founded in 2011, the coffee shop sources some of the finest beans from around the world and roasts them in-house. Their baristas take their craft seriously, and it shows in every meticulously prepared espresso and pour-over.
Each location has a distinct aesthetic, from the industrial-chic vibes of the Marathon Village outpost to the motorcycle-meets-coffee-shop theme at Golden Sound. In addition to outstanding coffee, Barista Parlor offers a variety of pastries and breakfast items, including their famous sausage biscuit.
Frothy Monkey
Location: Various locations (12 South, Downtown, East Nashville, The Nations, Franklin)
Vibe: Cozy, welcoming, and community-driven
Best for: Coffee lovers who also want a great meal
Frothy Monkey is a local favorite, offering high-quality coffee alongside a full menu of delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Their 12 South location is one of the most popular, often filled with creatives, remote workers, and friends catching up over a latte.
The shop serves its own roasted coffee and is known for its flavorful seasonal drinks. Their menu features excellent avocado toast, bagel sandwiches, and house-made granola, making it a perfect place for brunch.
Crema Coffee Roasters
Location: 15 Hermitage Ave
Vibe: Minimalist, warm, and inviting
Best for: Coffee purists who appreciate expertly roasted beans
Crema is one of Nashville’s premier specialty coffee roasters, known for its ethical sourcing and high-quality brews.
Located near downtown, this cozy spot offers incredible single-origin coffees and espresso drinks that highlight the natural flavors of the beans.
Crema’s pour-over coffee is a must-try, and their cortado is among the best in the city. If you’re in the mood for something different, try their famous Coffee Soda—an effervescent, slightly citrusy coffee drink that’s both refreshing and unique.
Bongo Java
Location: 2007 Belmont Blvd
Vibe: Eclectic, laid-back, and community-oriented
Best for: College students, artists, and those looking for a quirky vibe
Bongo Java is the oldest coffeehouse in Nashville, opening in 1993 and quickly becoming a beloved hangout for Belmont University students and creatives. The shop has a casual, artsy atmosphere and serves organic, fair-trade coffee roasted in-house.
One of its claims to fame is the “Nun Bun,” a cinnamon roll that allegedly bore a resemblance to Mother Teresa. While the original bun was stolen in 2005, the legend lives on. If you’re looking for a friendly spot to relax with a book or get some work done, Bongo Java is a great choice.
Steadfast Coffee
Location: 603 Taylor Street
Vibe: Modern, bright, and stylish
Best for: Coffee aficionados looking for a unique take on traditional drinks
Steadfast Coffee, located in Germantown, is a sleek, modern café that focuses on quality and innovation. Their signature “Flash Chill” iced coffee is a must-try, offering a smooth and flavorful alternative to traditional cold brew.
In addition to excellent coffee, Steadfast offers a small but well-curated food menu, with items like avocado toast and breakfast sandwiches. The space is stylish and airy, making it a great place to meet friends or get some work done.
8th & Roast Coffee Co.
Location: 2108 8th Ave S & 1310 Lyle Ave
Vibe: Warm, inviting, and down-to-earth
Best for: Those who appreciate locally roasted coffee
8th & Roast is a favorite among Nashville coffee lovers, known for its house-roasted beans and strong commitment to quality. Their baristas are knowledgeable and passionate about coffee, and they offer a variety of brewing methods, from Chemex to AeroPress.
Their cozy 8th Avenue location is perfect for those looking to settle in with a good book or get some work done. They also have a second location near Vanderbilt University that’s ideal for students and professionals.
Dose Coffee
Location: 3431 Murphy Rd
Vibe: Understated, friendly, and welcoming
Best for: A relaxed, neighborhood café experience
Dose is a hidden gem in the Sylvan Park neighborhood, known for its high-quality coffee and friendly atmosphere.
The shop has a straightforward, no-frills vibe, but their coffee speaks for itself.
They serve a variety of coffee from rotating roasters, as well as house-made syrups that add a unique twist to classic drinks. Their vanilla latte and oat milk cappuccino are fan favorites.
Red Bicycle Coffee
Location: Germantown, Woodbine, The Nations
Vibe: Quirky, eclectic, and fun
Best for: Coffee lovers who also want great crepes
Red Bicycle is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a full-fledged café with an emphasis on delicious crepes. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory breakfast crepe or a sweet Nutella-filled delight, they’ve got you covered.
Their coffee is excellent, too, with a variety of single-origin options and creative seasonal drinks. The Germantown location is particularly popular, with a cozy yet lively atmosphere.
Sump Coffee
Location: 8 City Blvd
Vibe: Industrial, serious, and modern
Best for: Hardcore coffee enthusiasts
Sump Coffee is a must-visit for serious coffee lovers. Their approach to coffee is meticulous, with a strong focus on single-origin beans and precise brewing techniques.
The shop itself has a minimalist, industrial feel, with large windows and a sleek, open space. Their pour-over coffee is some of the best in Nashville, and their baristas are always happy to discuss the nuances of different roasts.
Elixr Coffee
Location: 5045 Broadway Place (The Gulch)
Vibe: Chic, modern, and Instagram-worthy
Best for: Aesthetics and expertly crafted coffee
Elixr Coffee, a popular Philadelphia-based coffee brand, has brought its expertise to Nashville’s Gulch neighborhood.
Known for its vibrant pink interiors and beautiful latte art, Elixr is a haven for coffee lovers who also appreciate a stylish atmosphere.
Their espresso-based drinks are exceptional, and they offer a great selection of teas and pastries. If you’re looking for a great coffee experience in a picture-perfect setting, Elixr is a top choice.
Finding the Perfect Coffee Spot in Nashville
Whether you prefer a bustling café with a full food menu or a quiet, minimalist space where the focus is solely on the coffee, Nashville has an option for you. From the expertly crafted drinks at Crema to the laid-back charm of Bongo Java, the city’s coffee scene is as diverse as its music scene.
So, next time you’re in Nashville, be sure to explore these coffee shops and discover your personal favorite. With so many excellent choices, you’re bound to find a place that feels just right.
Exploring Nashville’s Coffee Culture: More Must-Visit Cafés
If you’re still on the hunt for the perfect cup of coffee in Nashville, don’t worry—the city’s coffee scene has even more gems to explore. Here are a few more noteworthy spots that deserve a visit.
Slow Hand Coffee + Bakeshop
Location: 1012 Gallatin Ave, East Nashville
Vibe: Cozy, small-batch, and community-oriented
Best for: Those who love artisanal pastries with their coffee
Slow Hand Coffee + Bakeshop is an East Nashville treasure that serves locally roasted coffee alongside some of the best pastries in town. Their menu features fresh-baked croissants, scones, and other sweet treats that perfectly complement their expertly brewed coffee.
The shop has a charming, small-town feel, with a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a great spot for relaxing with a book or catching up with friends. If you visit, don’t skip their cardamom latte—it’s a customer favorite.
Falcon Coffee Bar
Location: 509 Houston St
Vibe: Funky, retro, and artsy
Best for: Coffee lovers looking for a creative atmosphere
Located in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood, Falcon Coffee Bar brings a unique and artistic vibe to Nashville’s coffee scene. This café is part of Jackalope Brewing Co., making it a great spot for those who appreciate good coffee and craft beer.
Their menu features locally roasted coffee, along with unique drinks like their honey cinnamon latte. The shop is also known for its plant-based menu options, making it an excellent choice for vegan customers.
Honest Coffee Roasters
Location: 601 Merritt Ave (Inside L&L Market)
Vibe: Modern, stylish, and welcoming
Best for: Specialty coffee lovers who appreciate ethical sourcing
Honest Coffee Roasters is a specialty coffee shop with a mission to provide ethically sourced and meticulously roasted coffee. Their flagship location inside L&L Market is sleek and inviting, making it a great spot to enjoy a well-crafted pour-over or espresso drink.
Their nitro cold brew is one of the best in town, and they also offer a variety of specialty drinks made with house-made syrups. If you’re into specialty coffee with a focus on quality and sustainability, Honest Coffee Roasters is a must-visit.
Pinewood Social
Location: 33 Peabody St
Vibe: Upscale, social, and multi-purpose
Best for: Coffee lovers who also enjoy a trendy social scene
Pinewood Social isn’t just a coffee shop—it’s a one-of-a-kind social space that includes a café, restaurant, bowling alley, and outdoor pool area. Their coffee program is top-notch, featuring expertly brewed espresso drinks and a variety of brewing methods.
It’s a fantastic spot to start your day with a cappuccino before transitioning into brunch or even a fun evening out. The space is trendy and stylish, making it one of the most unique coffee destinations in Nashville.
Three Brothers Coffee
Location: 2813 West End Ave
Vibe: Hipster, laid-back, and Instagrammable
Best for: Creative individuals and urban explorers
Three Brothers Coffee is a hidden gem that’s especially popular among college students and young professionals.
Located near Vanderbilt University, this shop features an eclectic, urban vibe and a cool alleyway mural that makes for great Instagram shots.
Their menu includes classic espresso drinks, but their specialty drinks, like the honey lavender latte, set them apart. The space is small but inviting, making it a great spot to stop for a quick caffeine fix.
Americano Lounge
Location: 434 Houston St, The Gulch
Vibe: Vintage, European-inspired, and intimate
Best for: A sophisticated coffee experience with a touch of old-school glamour
Americano Lounge brings a unique European café feel to Nashville’s coffee scene. With its dim lighting, vintage décor, and classic jazz playing in the background, this spot feels like a stylish escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Their coffee menu includes expertly crafted espresso drinks, and they even offer coffee-based cocktails for those looking to elevate their experience. If you’re in the mood for a more refined café experience, Americano Lounge is a must-visit.
Borealis Coffee Company
Location: 1601 Riverside Dr
Vibe: Small, indie, and community-driven
Best for: Locals who appreciate high-quality coffee in a low-key setting
Borealis Coffee Company is a lesser-known but beloved coffee shop in East Nashville. With a focus on high-quality, single-origin beans, they deliver exceptional coffee in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Their friendly baristas and commitment to sustainable sourcing make this a great option for those who appreciate independent coffee shops with a strong sense of community.
Nashville’s Coffee Culture: More Than Just a Caffeine Fix
One of the best things about Nashville’s coffee scene is its diversity. Whether you’re looking for a meticulously crafted pour-over, a creative seasonal latte, or a cozy café to spend a few hours in, the city has something for everyone.
What Sets Nashville’s Coffee Scene Apart?
A Strong Sense of Community – Many of Nashville’s coffee shops serve as gathering places for artists, students, and professionals. The warm, welcoming vibe is a huge part of what makes the city’s coffee culture so special.
A Focus on Quality – Many of the city’s top coffee shops are deeply invested in sourcing high-quality, ethically produced beans. Nashville’s roasters take their craft seriously, ensuring that every cup is thoughtfully brewed.
Creative & Unique Offerings – From the refreshing Coffee Soda at Crema to the Flash Chill iced coffee at Steadfast, Nashville’s coffee scene is filled with inventive and unique drinks that you won’t find just anywhere.
A Blend of Old & New – Some of Nashville’s coffee shops, like Bongo Java, have been around for decades and remain beloved institutions, while newer spots like Elixr bring fresh, modern concepts to the city.
Where to Find Your Perfect Cup in Music City
Whether you’re a die-hard coffee enthusiast or just looking for a great place to start your day, Nashville has an impressive array of coffee shops to choose from. From trendy third-wave roasters to cozy neighborhood cafés, there’s a perfect spot for every coffee lover.
If you’re short on time and can only visit a few:
For a top-tier coffee experience: Crema Coffee Roasters or Barista Parlor
For a cozy, community-focused vibe: Frothy Monkey or Bongo Java
For something unique and creative: Steadfast Coffee or Elixr Coffee
For a hidden gem: Dose Coffee or Borealis Coffee Company
Next time you’re in Nashville, be sure to explore the city’s dynamic coffee scene—you just might find your new favorite spot! ☕ 🎶
