Food Scene

Tempe has a latte of great coffee spots

July 29, 2024
Jasmine Jo and Rowan Tree

Tempe is the hub for great coffee.

Whether you’re in search of a specialty coffee roast, designer iced lattes or a vibey perch for soaking up the scene over a quality cup of joe, Tempe has you covered. Check out some of our favorite locally owned coffee houses and top restaurant spots for that next sip.

Coffee Shops

Aruma Cafe at Culdesac Tempe

Cocina Chiwas owners Nadia Holguin and Armando Hernandez have yet again expanded their culinary empire, adding Tempe’s newest coffee shop to their ever-growing list of accolades. Aruma Cafe — located at Culdesac Tempe (across from their award-winning concept, Cocina Chiwas — opened in the spring of 2024 and serves up a selection of specialty coffee, espresso and tea drinks, as well as aguas frescas and horchata. This endeavor is a partnership between the duo and former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (who currently plays for the Tennessee Titans).
2011 E. Apache Blvd., #143, Tempe, AZ 85281

Brick Road Coffee

Follow the yellow brick road to Brick Road Coffee in Tempe. This LGBTQ+ owned business has already built an incredible community in Tempe. All of their espresso and cold brew is supplied by Comucap, a Honduras-based cooperative founded by women seeking economic independence to support their families while breaking the cycle of abuse. They even offer an LGBTQ+ Lending Library, where you can borrow books while enjoying your drink. Be sure to check out the fabulous selection of pastries, bottled drinks and delicious pizza croissants. Open late until 10 p.m., and occasionally you can catch some fantastic evening events or entertainment. Follow along on their Instagram page to stay in the know.
4415 S. Rural Road, Suite 10, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 480-590-7246

Cafetal Coffee

Cafetal Coffee is the true definition of farm to cup. Sourced directly from the family farm in Columbia, Cafetal Coffee is a specialty coffee shop that prides itself on offering delicious drinks near the ASU Tempe campus. Everything, from the coffee to the small plates, is prepped in-house by their baristas. Stop by on your way to work or class and see why everyone is raving about their service and hospitality.
777 S. College Ave. #101, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-557-5245

Cartel Roasting Co.

Tempe’s coffee claim to fame would have to be Cartel Roasting Co. Their first shop opened in Tempe a few years back, and they now have tons of locations all over the Valley and out of state. Cartel’s espresso is top-notch, and their flavors are out of this world. Each coffee is curated and sourced responsibly from countries including El Salvador, Colombia and Rwanda. Don’t feel like leaving your house to get Cartel coffee? No problem. Subscribe, and they will deliver it wherever you would like. 
810 S. Ash Ave. Drive, Tempe, AZ 85281

Coffee 48

For an authentic sipping experience, Coffee 48 specializes in Vietnamese coffee and unique Asian flavor-based teas. Bring an adventurous palate and try a new flavor combination: From rose lychee tea and Jasmine tea with cheese foam to passion fruit ice yogurt and Pandan espresso, these drinks are as delicious as they are beautiful. One important to note is that this is a perfect spot for orders on the go, as there is no seating in the current space.
1310 E. Broadway, Suite 103, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 602-814-9072

Gold Bar Espresso

When you walk through the doors of Gold Bar Espresso, you are welcomed by a cozy, at-home feeling. The extensive coffee and espresso menu, located conveniently on the wall above the breakfast treats case, has many tasty options. They have just about any coffee drink you can imagine and an abundant selection of custom mocha drinks.
3141 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 480-839-3082

Infusion Coffee & Tea Crafters

Infusion is located next door to Four Peaks Brewing Company, just a stone’s throw from the ASU Tempe Campus. The owner, Patrick O’Malley, travels worldwide to teach about coffee and bring the best-sourced beans and teas back to Tempe. You can get any of your standard coffee beverages, but they also have exciting twists like The Bee’s Knees (a mix of espresso, lemon and honey) and Galician Latte (condensed milk melted into espresso with more milk added on top). They also teach various classes, including a latte art workshop, home roasting basics and more.
1300 E. 8th St., Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-968-2533

Jasmine Jo & Rowan Tree

Not only is Jasmine Jo & Rowan Tree a coffee shop, but it’s also a flower shop — a combo we never knew we needed! Walking in, you’re greeted by the fragrance of fresh daisies and sunflowers. Keep going to the back, toward the coffee shop, and you are welcomed with the scent of fresh espresso. You can’t go wrong with their Dirty Daisy (vanilla latte and mocha) and Iced Chai. This hidden gem is located on the corner of Mill Avenue and Baseline Road — just look for the sign that says “Coffee + Flowers.”
107 E. Baseline Road., Suite A4, Tempe, AZ 85283 | 480-686-896

King Coffee

Located across the street from Arizona State University, this quaint, hipster spot is locally owned by people who truly love coffee. They’ve expanded their space over the years, so there are plenty of tables for studying, business meetings or just relaxing with your besties. I’m a big fan of the Iced Chai, with just the right amount of spice. And you can’t ever go wrong with their pour over or Macchiato.
1020 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-307-6557

Pair Cupworks at Arizona Bouldering Project

Pair Cupworks has landed in Tempe. Open inside Arizona Bouldering Project since fall 2023, this marks the second location for co-owners Kimhak Em and Eugenia Tai. Turns out, rock climbing and espresso are a matcha made in heaven. Grab a day pass or a membership to this new indoor rock-climbing gym, and don’t miss the chance to try locally roasted specialty coffee blends and artisan teas. Standouts here include the fresh whisked matcha and pour overs, because — much like bouldering — perfection takes time.
 2626 S. Hardy Drive, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 480-716-9014

Palette Collective

Palette Collective is a fully customizable studio space that offers small businesses a studio rental for their work/salon. They are also known for their amazing coffee, tea and picturesque avocado toast. Yes, their avocado toast is that pretty. And if you prefer non-dairy drinks, they have a variety of great options for coffee and matcha with alternative milk selections. It is such a convenient space to get your hair done by a local stylist and grab coffee at the same time! They also have plenty of tables for those looking to get some work done.
7720 S. Priest Drive, Tempe, AZ 85284 | 602-465-4666

Press Coffee

Just over 10 years and nine valley locations later, Press Coffee has become a staple throughout the Greater Phoenix area. Their passion and commitment to making great coffee has built a loyal and enthusiastic fan base. From the beginning, Press Coffee has stayed true to its mission of sourcing the best products, equipment and team members. Their dedication helps supports Arizona charities and coffee farmers around the world.
601 W. Rio Salado Parkway, #103, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-794-1107
100 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 | 602-595-3421

Shaghf Café

With over 65 locations worldwide, Shaghf Café landed in Tempe in April 2024 (only the third location in the Unites States). Derived from the Arabic word for passion, Shaghf Café encapsulates the brand’s movement that celebrates the rich heritage and artistry of Arab coffee culture.
1250 E. Apache Blvd., 116, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-590-4909

Steve’s Espresso

Steve’s Espresso is a local neighborhood joint known for quality coffee and a great atmosphere. From chai to pastries (the heavy cream scones are famous), Steve’s Espresso makes everything from scratch. Whether you are in the mood for breakfast, lunch, coffee or cocktails, Steve’s Espresso has you covered.
1801 E. Baseline Road, #102, Tempe, AZ 85283 | 480-777-5373

Restaurants

The Crêpe Bar

I know what you’re thinking. The Crêpe Bar sells Crêpes, and this is a blog about coffee. True, but your experience isn’t complete until you’ve tried their coffee, too. They take it quite seriously, using Presta Coffee from Tucson. Their photogenic and tasty lattes can come with honey, vanilla, caramel or sea salt and dark chocolate mocha flavors. And, for something truly unique, check out their Molasses Spiced Latte with espresso, black molasses, whipped cream, chocolate shavings and pecans from Arizona.
7520 S. Rural Road, Tempe, AZ 85283 | 480-247-8012

Snakes & Lattes

As mentioned in the name, Snakes & Lattes has lattes galore and more! Start your morning with a buzz and enjoy such coffee cocktails as the Espresso Martini or the Revolver, which has Bacardi, pineapple, lime, orgeat syrup and cold brew. Of course, they have non-alcoholic choices as well. Accompany your beverage with your choice of board game and play classics, including Clue and more.
20 W. 6th St., Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-361-6644

Daily Dose Kitchen & Bar

Daily Dose offers a great selection of breakfast, brunch and lunch options. They not only provide the staples —from a drip or even a “Filthy Chai” — but you can also have spiked coffee drinks like “The Classic” or “Cinnamon Chata.” And you thought brunch couldn’t get any more fun.
96 S. Rockford Drive, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-590-6937

Even more Tempe coffee shops to explore:

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