One of my favorite things about Providence is that we have one of the highest number of coffee shops per capita in the country. At last count, that's about 23 coffee shops per 100,000 people, which makes it the perfect place to celebrate National Coffee Day on Sept. 29. But with a cafe on just about every corner, how do you decide where to go? I did a very informal survey of my GoProvidence coworkers to find out their favorite caffeine source. Here's what they had to say.
Downtown Coffee
Elizabeth Buckley, Director of Business Development: "My favorite coffee is at Small Point Cafe on Westminster. It's the perfect midmorning walk from my office. I order a cappuccino and love waiting for it to be made in the busy, artsy atmosphere of the cafe. When I'm not racing back to the office, I like to sit at Bellini for a cappuccino, served in a china cup with a bite size biscotti on the saucer — bellisimo!"
Jessica Caparco, Senior Director of Marketing: "It's almost impossible to pick a favorite coffee spot in Providence. But I do love the Coffee Connection. As an iced coffee year-rounder, I appreciate that they have a wide selection of fun flavors, like Maui Madness and Banana Hazelnut."
Carley Foto, Convention Services Manager: "I love a double shot of espresso with mocha syrup from Hope & Main, right downstairs in our building at 100 Westminster."
Erin Hanson, Director of Community Affairs: "I'm a big fan of the Iced Mocha with oat milk at Hope & Main."
Kate Heemsoth, Sales Manager: "I love Little City Coffee! It's a small, locally owned business that's run by a welcoming and knowledgeable staff. The shop values sustainability and supporting other small businesses through its rotating lineup of coffee and menu offerings. They've certainly become a favorite in the Downcity neighborhood! I usually get a pretty basic coffee, but their seasonal flavors are always delicious!"
Jonathan Neis, National Sales Manager: "My personal favorite is Little City! I always get a latte and love their seasonal syrup options. For the spring and summer this year, they had a lavender syrup — so good! Their pastries are always so good too."
Sandra Olson, Community Affairs Manager: "I love the Caffe Mocha at Caffe Nero, and it's super convenient because I walk right by on the way to the office."
Bellini
- 50 Westminster St
Hope & Main
- 100 Westminster Street
Caffe Nero
- 75 Fountain Street
New Harvest Coffee & Spirits
- 10 Sims Avenue
More Providence Coffee
Erin Degulis, Senior Director of Convention & Visitor Services: "I'm a Dunkin' girl – 3 milk, 3 Equals."
Laura Destefanis, Finance/Administration Manager: "I like Dave's Coffee because I can order ahead, then take a walk to pick up my Skim Chai Latte."
Anissa Ladd, Director of Sales: "New Harvest Roasters in the Farm Fresh RI building. I love this coffee so much that I have it delivered to my house on auto-ship to make sure I get my coffee on the weekend. My favorite for home brew is the Organic Cafe Marika Bold Blend. Sunday mornings wouldn't be the same without it!"
Alana O'Hare, Senior Director of Communications & Special Projects: "Rise 'N Shine Cafe. I always get their special, no matter what it is! The PB&J was an all-time favorite. Their concoctions are unique and hand-crafted. Love the interior decor, too — super cozy and comfortable."
Jonathan Walker, Senior Director of Sports Sales: "L'Artisan Cafe & Bakery in Wayland Square. Like a true New Englander, my go-to order is an iced coffee. Or Dave's Coffee for a Nitro Cold Brew. Pro tip: try the breakfast sandwich on homemade English muffins. Their carrot bacon is perfect for vegetarians and even fools bacon lovers like me!"
And a Couple Warwick Cafes
Kristen Adamo, President & CEO: "The perfect Sunday morning is a Dirty Chai from Presto Strange O Cafe, followed by a walk in Rocky Point Park, which is just down the road. I like a Dirty Chai because it's the best of both worlds — the spicy sweetness of chai tea mixed with the liquid oomph of espresso. It gets you moving!"
As for me, I adore Coco's Cafe in the Arcade. Their seasonal drinks are always tasty, and they carry Knead Donuts, which is great when I need a little treat. But when I'm working from home in Warwick, I'm all about Cafe Tempo in Apponaug. I'm partial to the Maple Cinnamon Swirl iced coffee and an Asiago bagel.
Whichever you choose, I'm sure there's a coffee shop in Providence just waiting to be your new favorite. And, if we missed yours, be sure to snap a photo and tag @GoProvidence!