The Absolute Best Cafe in Austin [Updated 2024]

Discovering the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in a delightful cup of joe is no easy feat. But fear not!

After extensively exploring the vibrant coffee scene of Austin, I have reviewed eight exceptional cafes to bring you the crème de la crème. From cozy hideaways to trendy hotspots, each with its unique charm, this article will help you narrow down your search and find the best cafe in Austin that suits your taste and mood.

So, grab your coffee mug, sit back, and get ready to embark on a lighthearted caffeinated adventure!

The Hideout Coffee House

Highlights
Convenient location
Impressive lattes
High praise for nitro coffee
Remarkable ambiance
Delicious specialty house drinks

The first thing that caught my attention about The Hideout Coffee House was its convenient location. Situated in the heart of Austin, it's the perfect spot to fuel up before exploring the city or to take a break during a busy day.

As a latte enthusiast, I was impressed by the impeccable lattes crafted by the talented baristas at The Hideout. The creamy foam on top was like a work of art, and the rich, velvety espresso flavor put a smile on my face. The Hideout truly knows how to make a great latte that hits all the right notes.

One drink that deserves high praise at The Hideout is their nitro coffee. It was a revelation for coffee lovers like me. Served cold from a tap, it has a smooth and velvety texture with a hint of sweetness. It was an absolute delight to savor this unique and refreshing beverage.

The remarkable ambiance of The Hideout deserves a special mention. Its cozy and warm interior, complete with comfortable seating and soft lighting, creates an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for sipping coffee, getting lost in a book, or catching up with friends.

To my delight, The Hideout also offers a selection of delicious specialty house drinks. From their unique signature blends to creative seasonal concoctions, there is always something new and exciting to try. Each sip was a delightful surprise that left me craving for more.

Overall, The Hideout Coffee House in Austin truly impressed me with its convenient location, impeccable lattes, high praise for nitro coffee, remarkable ambiance, and delicious specialty house drinks. It's no wonder that it's considered one of the best cafes in the city. If you're looking for a playful yet professional coffee experience, The Hideout is definitely worth a visit.

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Halcyon

Highlights
Authentic energy
Comfy and diverse seating
Cool and intimidating staff
Perfectly made food and drink
Great location with indoor and outdoor seating

Halcyon exudes an authentic energy that immediately draws you in. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the chatter of customers deep in conversation. The first thing that caught my eye was the remarkable diversity of seating options. From oversized leather chairs to sturdy wooden tables, there was a spot to suit every mood and preference.

The staff at Halcyon were cool and intimidating in the best way possible. They were knowledgeable about the menu and took the time to answer my questions. Their recommendations were spot-on, guiding me to the perfect cup of coffee and a delectable plate of food.

Speaking of the food and drink, everything I ordered was perfectly made. The latte was rich and velvety, while the sandwiches were bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or a tea enthusiast, Halcyon has something to satisfy every palate.

Location can make or break a cafe experience, and Halcyon definitely got it right. Situated in a bustling area, it offers both indoor and outdoor seating. I chose to sit outside, basking in the warm Austin sunshine while savoring my treats.

Overall, Halcyon is a delightful blend of playfulness and professionalism. The bold and eclectic atmosphere combined with the impeccable service and delicious offerings make it a strong contender for the title of the best cafe in Austin.

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1886 Cafe & Bakery

Highlights
Charming interior
Delicious food and drinks
Great view of the street
Unique ambiance
Excellent service

Nestled in the heart of Austin, 1886 Cafe & Bakery is a hidden gem that captures the essence of the city's vibrant cafe culture. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a bygone era with its charming interior adorned with antique furniture, rustic wooden accents, and soft lighting.

But it's not just the ambiance that makes 1886 Cafe & Bakery stand out. The menu boasts a delightful array of food and drinks that cater to all tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a decadent dessert, they've got you covered. The selection of pastries and baked goods is particularly impressive, and each bite is a little piece of heaven.

What sets 1886 Cafe & Bakery apart from other cafes in Austin is its prime location. Situated on a busy street, the cafe offers a great view of the bustling city life, making it the perfect spot for people-watching. As you sip your perfectly brewed coffee or enjoy your delectable meal, you can soak in the vibrant energy of the city.

The unique ambiance and mouthwatering food are only enhanced by the impeccable service provided by the friendly and attentive staff. They go above and beyond to ensure that every customer feels welcome and well taken care of.

In conclusion, 1886 Cafe & Bakery is a must-visit spot for any cafe enthusiast in Austin. With its charming interior, delicious food and drinks, great view of the street, unique ambiance, and excellent service, this cafe truly deserves a spot on the list of the best cafes in Austin.

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Jo's Coffee

Highlights
Modern soda pop atmosphere
Italian cream soda with lavender
Plenty of space for seating
Solid food and coffee
Nice staff

Walking into Jo's Coffee, I was immediately struck by the modern soda pop atmosphere that filled the air. The retro aesthetic combined with the cozy seating created a comfortable and inviting environment.

As a lover of unique beverages, I was excited to try their signature drink, the Italian cream soda with lavender. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The combination of the creamy Italian soda with the delicate scent of lavender created a truly refreshing and memorable experience.

One thing I appreciated about Jo's Coffee was the ample space for seating. Whether I wanted to do some work on my laptop or catch up with friends, there was always a comfortable spot available.

Now, let's talk about the food and coffee. Jo's Coffee has a reputation for offering solid choices in both categories. From their expertly brewed coffee to their delicious pastries and sandwiches, every bite and sip was a delight.

Lastly, I have to mention the staff at Jo's Coffee. They were not only efficient and professional but also genuinely nice and friendly. Their enthusiasm for their craft was evident in the way they made recommendations and engaged with customers.

Overall, my experience at Jo's Coffee was a delightful one. From the playful soda pop atmosphere to the delectable Italian cream soda with lavender, this cafe deserves a spot on the list of the best cafes in Austin. So whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, Jo's Coffee has something to offer to everyone.

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Malone Specialty Coffee

Highlights
Best drip coffee in Austin
Smooth and rich flavor
Well-balanced and freshly roasted
Reasonable prices compared to Starbucks

Nestled in the heart of Austin, with a charming, rustic interior, Malone Specialty Coffee instantly caught my attention. From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I was in for a treat. With the alluring scent of freshly brewed beans wafting through the air, I eagerly made my way to the counter.

What makes Malone Specialty Coffee stand out from the competition is their commitment to serving the best drip coffee in Austin. With every sip, I was transported to coffee heaven. The smooth and rich flavor captivated my taste buds and left me craving for more. Each cup was a delightful symphony of balanced notes, a testament to their dedication to quality.

One thing that I truly appreciated about Malone Specialty Coffee was their commitment to freshness. The coffee is freshly roasted in-house, ensuring that every cup is a fragrant masterpiece. The baristas take their craft seriously, and it shows in every cup they serve.

Aside from the stellar coffee, I was pleasantly surprised by the reasonable prices at Malone Specialty Coffee. In a city where big chain cafes like Starbucks dominate, it's refreshing to find a local gem that offers exceptional quality at a fraction of the price.

If you're on the hunt for the best cafe in Austin, look no further than Malone Specialty Coffee. Their dedication to serving the finest drip coffee in town, along with their reasonable prices, make this hidden gem a top contender in the caffeine-filled city.

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Thistle Cafe

Highlights
Fun surprising place
Tasty beef tacos with rice and beans
Loved the enchiladas
Great spot for breakfast or lunch
Great breakfast tacos

Thistle Cafe is a fun surprising place that exceeded my expectations. Nestled in the heart of Austin, this quaint little cafe offers a delightful menu that will satisfy all your cravings.

As a self-proclaimed breakfast enthusiast, I couldn't resist starting my day with one of their great breakfast tacos. The flavors were simply exceptional, from the perfectly seasoned eggs to the flavorful salsa, each bite was a burst of morning joy.

For lunch, I couldn't resist trying their highly recommended beef tacos with rice and beans. Let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The tender beef paired with the fluffy rice and well-seasoned beans were a match made in heaven. It was like a fiesta in my mouth!

One can't visit Thistle Cafe without trying their enchiladas. And boy, oh boy, were they a treat! The rich and vibrant flavors of the sauce combined with the perfectly melted cheese made for a mouthwatering experience. I could taste the love and care put into every bite.

Thistle Cafe is not only a great spot for breakfast or lunch, it's a hidden gem for those seeking a culinary adventure. The friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and tasty menu make it a must-visit when exploring the bustling cafe scene of Austin. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Thistle Cafe will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

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Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea

Highlights
Tasty drinks and food
Excellent customer service
Hidden gem near state Capitol
High quality roast coffee
Spacious seating and atmosphere

Nestled near the state Capitol, Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea is a hidden gem in the heart of Austin. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and a welcoming atmosphere. The friendly baristas provided excellent customer service, taking the time to explain the menu and make personalized recommendations.

The star of the show at Sweetwaters is undoubtedly their tasty drinks and food. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or a tea lover, their menu has something for everyone. I couldn't resist trying their high quality roast coffee, and I'm happy to report that it exceeded my expectations. The rich aroma and smooth taste left me craving for more.

And let's not forget about the food! The selection of pastries and sandwiches made for the perfect accompaniment to my drink. Every bite was a delightful combination of flavors that left me feeling satisfied and content.

One of the standout features of Sweetwaters is its spacious seating and inviting atmosphere. The cafe provides ample seating options, making it an ideal spot to relax, catch up with friends, or get work done. The cozy ambiance and soothing background music added to the overall inviting vibe.

In conclusion, Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea is a must-visit for anyone searching for the best cafe in Austin. With its tasty drinks and food, excellent customer service, and hidden gem location, it's a place that truly stands out among the crowded cafe scene in Austin. So, next time you're near the state Capitol, be sure to stop by Sweetwaters and experience their delightful offerings firsthand.

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Good Things

Highlights
Cute coffee shop
Flavorful tacos
Amazing salsa
Iced Cara Mellow heaven
Friendly staff

Good Things is not just your average coffee shop; it is a delightful haven that combines the warmth of a cozy cafe with the vibrant energy of Texan cuisine. As soon as I stepped inside, I knew I was in for a treat.

The first thing that caught my eye was the charming decor. The colorful walls painted with whimsical patterns and the rustic wooden furniture created an inviting atmosphere. The cute coffee shop vibes were only the beginning of my adventure.

I decided to start my culinary journey at Good Things with their flavorful tacos. Each bite was a burst of savory goodness. The mouthwatering combination of perfectly seasoned meat, fresh toppings, and homemade tortillas made these tacos a true delight.

But what truly stole the show was the amazing salsa. It was a tantalizing blend of tomatoes, onions, and spices, with a hint of tanginess that left me craving for more. I couldn't resist pouring it generously over every bite – it simply elevated the entire experience to another level.

To wash down my delicious meal, I opted for their famous Iced Cara Mellow, and it was heavenly. The creamy caramel flavor combined with the smooth espresso made for a refreshing yet indulgent treat. It was the perfect companion for a warm Austin afternoon.

Aside from the extraordinary food and beverages, the staff at Good Things were incredibly friendly and attentive. Their warm smiles and genuine enthusiasm added an extra layer of warmth to the already welcoming atmosphere.

In conclusion, Good Things is more than just a coffee shop – it's a haven of delightful flavors and friendly faces. With its cute ambiance, flavorful tacos, amazing salsa, and heavenly iced beverages, this charming gem deserves a spot on the list of best cafes in Austin.

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