Ever since I moved to Rhode Island a little over two years ago, I spend a good chunk of time at Providence’s coffee shops and cafés. Being new to the city, I was looking for places where I could get a feel for the area, meet new people and be surrounded by other creatives while doing my freelance projects.
For a small city, Providence has some fantastic coffee shops and I don’t even think I have been to all of them. The places listed here on my list not only have delicious coffee, but also good food and vibes, which make them even better.
If you are visiting Providence, Rhode Island any time soon make sure to hit one of these local coffee spot. You won’t be disappointed:
The Shop
I spend most of my time at this coffee shop, which is located in the Fox Point area. It’s a great neighborhood spot serving delicious cold brew on tap and the usual coffee and lattes with a small, well-crafted menu as well as pastries made by local bakers. Plus, I love the design of the interior, which makes me happy. The avocado toast served with Seven Stars bakery bread is not to be missed and on warm days you can sit outside at one of the tables on the front patio.
The Nitro Bar
I’ve been spending a lot of time at this new coffee shop on the west side, which opened in the winter and shares a space with Dash bicycle. Known for their Nitrobrew, which is locally sourced and brewed, the frothy cold coffee comes out like a Guinness with no need for cream or sugar. They also serve up some delicious drinks such as iced horchatas and lattes with a twist and light fare such as bagels, churros and empanadas. I love to sit at the marble counter or the lounge area overlooking the street.
Bolt has two locations, one in the Dean Hotel, and one at the RISD museum, the latter which has more of an extensive menu and a larger space to spread out. Their coffee is strong and their barista’s are knowledgeable and cool. I always go for a cappuccino or latte, and their selection of salads and toasts are always satisfying and delicious.
I stumbled upon Dave’s on Main Street months after I moved here and love the airy vibe and lively mix of people. I’m partial to their seasonal drinks—the lavendar latte is so good—and they make one of my favorite matcha lattes in the city. They also sell their own line of upscale coffee syrup and have a variety of gluten free pastries and snacks.
The Coffee Exchange
Always bustling, this may be one of the busiest shops of the bunch and the oldest in the area with a loyal local clientle. They roast their coffee beans on premises and sell a nice selection of fair trade and organic varieties to take home. I personally like to come here in the warmer months, so I can sit outside on their patio and people watch on Wickenden Street.
Do you have a favorite coffee shop? And do you agree with my list? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Main image taken by Janie Liu at Nitro Bar; Nitro Bar Barista photo taken by me — other photographs \3\4\
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