Coffee is a wonderful thing. It can be both fuel for daily life and a delicious beverage to savor with friends or family. Rochester has a fantastic coffee scene that’s well worth exploring! We’ve got family-friendly spots with delicious food, cozy shops ideal for long conversations with friends, aesthetic places with great vibes, and much more. Let us walk you through some of the unique spots that make up our local coffee community.
Aesthetic Spots with Great Coffee
Bar Bantam | 1 South Clinton Avenue, Rochester, NY 14604
Located in the striking Metropolitan building in the heart of downtown Rochester, Bar Bantam offers an upscale dining experience. Stop by in the morning to enjoy a delicious coffee and savor the sunlight streaming in through the windows! Don’t miss their breakfast sandwiches–they’re ridiculously good.
Pearson’s | 23 Somerton Street, Rochester, NY 14607
Over in the lively Park Ave neighborhood, you’ll find Pearson’s Market & Cafe. You can enjoy delectable seasonal favorites, like the tiramisu latte (exactly what it sounds like) or the snow day (featuring peppermint, vanilla, espresso, and milk) as well as some top-notch breakfast sandos and a variety of lunch options. While you’re there, you can also pick up products from other beloved Swan family restaurants, like the pasta sauce from Vern’s.
Winter Swan Coffee | 43 Russell Street, Rochester, NY 14607
For immaculate vibes, head to Winter Swan Coffee in the Neighborhood of the Arts. Since it’s located in the gorgeous Stacy K Floral, you can browse vibrant plants and eclectic gifts while you wait for your coffee to be ready. Founded by a Vietnamese woman, Winter Swan features Asian-inspired flavors all across the menu. Order a pandan latte or the Vietnamese coffee–you won’t regret it!
Joe Bean Coffee Roasters | 565 Blossom Road e1, Rochester, NY 14610
Joe Bean offers some of the best coffee in Rochester, with a focus on direct trade and uplifting the farmers who grow the beans that makes their coffee so exceptional. Stop in for a bag of beans–or sign up for their coffee subscription to receive high quality coffee beans by mail every month! Their friendly staff are always eager to talk about coffee, so don’t be afraid to ask questions about the beans, your brewing methods, and more.
Locals Only | 311 Alexander Street, Rochester, NY 14604
Downtown, you’ll find Locals Only, a cute spot with good coffee, fun brunch foods, unique menu items like a soft pretzel flight, and even tasty cocktails! Whether you’re dining with friends or alone, you can’t go wrong with a classic espresso martini.
Family-Friendly Spots with Fantastic Food
Neutral Ground | 45 Schoen Place, Pittsford, NY 14534
Delicious lattes, a view of the historic Erie Canal, and it’s dog-friendly? What more could you want?! Neutral Ground in Schoen Place is a fun spot for the whole family. They’ve got breakfast served all day, an assortment of yummy sandwiches, and delicious hot chocolate for those cold winter days. Be sure to check out their Corn Hill location, too!
Rococo | 240 East Main Street, Rochester, NY 14604
Rococo is one of the amazing local businesses housed in The Mercantile on Main. They’ve got a variety of great drinks that you can enjoy to-go or on-site in Sibley Square. The Merc has giant games for kids, a Little Free Library, and vibrant murals, so stay for a while and explore!
Village Bakery | 44 East Main Street, Webster, NY, 14580
Whether you’re in the mood for cold brew or cappuccinos, bacon or baked goods, the Village Bakery has you covered! They use only whole ingredients and everything is baked fresh daily. Order a delicious sandwich or pastry and stay awhile! This cute cafe also has locations at the Culver Road Armory, the Village of Pittsford, and Eastview Mall.
Can’t Miss Coffee Shops in the City of Rochester
Other local favorites include beloved third wave shops Ugly Duck Coffee, Fuego Coffee Roasters, and Melo Coffee and Kitchen, each with their own unique personalities and ride-or-die supporters. Java’s Cafe is a local icon, long-established in the East End and perfect for getting cozy with a warm drink. Newcomer AM:FM adds some cool vibes to the mix, with vinyl always playing–and you can even bring your own record from home to have them play in the shop!
Beyond Rochester
Heading to the Finger Lakes? Take a moment to pop into Old School Cafe in Naples! This gem is located in a former one-room schoolhouse and is a perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee, brunch, or some tasty baked goods.
What’s your favorite coffee shop in Rochester? Share your favorite local coffee shop vibes on Instagram with #VisitRoc!
