• Question: What makes Oakland's coffee shops unique?
    Answer: Oakland’s coffee shops are as diverse as the neighborhoods, offering unique experiences like roasting their own blends or adding joyous notes on coffee cups.
  • Question: Do all coffee shops in Oakland roast their own blends?
    Answer: Some shops roast their own blends, while others source their coffee from elsewhere.
  • Question: Are there coffee shops in Oakland with unique touches?
    Answer: Yes, some cafes add special touches, like joyous notes on coffee cups.
  • Question: What activities can coffee drinkers enjoy in Oakland’s coffee shops?
    Answer: Visitors can gather with friends, read a good book, get work done, or simply relax.
  • Question: Is there a coffee shop for everyone in Oakland?
    Answer: Yes, Oakland offers a coffee shop for everyone, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs.

Unique Coffee Shops

1888 Coffee Station at Bacheesos

Sip rich coffee and savor delicious bites in a cozy setting.

1888 Coffee Station at Bacheesos

© 1888 Coffee Station at Bacheesos

If you're after a seriously good cup of coffee with heart behind it, check out the 1888 Coffee Station at Bacheesos. They serve smooth, flavorful 100% Arabica beans grown in Mexico’s Cloud Forest—and the whole process is family-run and totally sustainable.

Highlights:
  • Coffee made from hand-harvested beans grown in volcanic soil
  • Ethically sourced from the 1888 Coffee Estate in Veracruz
  • Family-owned operation with decades of tradition
  • Supports farmers, wildlife, and eco-friendly growing practices
  • Chill spot to sip and relax near Lake Merritt
Pro Tip:

Order a pour-over to really taste the depth of these beans. It’s smooth, rich, and perfect for slow sipping.

246 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Phone: 510-338-3598

Awaken Cafe & Roasting

Enjoy freshly roasted coffee and relax in a vibrant atmosphere.

Awaken Cafe & Roasting

© Awaken Cafe & Roasting

Awaken Cafe isn’t your average coffee shop—it’s part espresso bar, part hangout spot, part performance space, and all-around Oakland vibe. Located in the heart of downtown, this place serves up great coffee, local beer and wine, and a steady stream of live music, karaoke, and art.

Highlights:
  • Locally roasted coffee and a solid selection of craft beer & wine
  • Weekly karaoke nights, open mics, and live performances
  • Rotating art gallery featuring local artists
  • No Wi-Fi on purpose—it's all about real conversations and community
  • Laid-back space that feels like your cool, creative friend’s living room
Pro Tip:

Swing by on a Wednesday for karaoke—it’s low-key, fun, and always full of friendly locals cheering each other on.

1429 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: 510-863-1440

Bicycle Coffee

Savor smooth, sustainably sourced brews and explore unique coffee blends.

Bicycle Coffee

© Photocreo Bednarek/stock.adobe.com

If you're into coffee and bikes, you’ll feel right at home at the Bicycle Coffee Company. What started with roasting beans in a wok has turned into a global brand—and their downtown Oakland spot keeps it real with an open, laid-back vibe and beans roasted right on site.

Highlights:
  • Fresh-roasted coffee served just steps from where it’s made
  • Simple, open space with a cool industrial feel
  • Outdoor seating with bike-shaped tables (yes, really)
  • Grab a growler of iced coffee or take home a bag of their blends
  • Perfect for chill mornings or a post-ride caffeine fix
Pro Tip:

Bring your own growler and fill up on their iced coffee—super smooth, refreshing, and perfect for warm Oakland days.

364 2nd St, Oakland, CA 94607
More info here

Coffee Shops for a First Date

Cafe Santana Roasting Company

Indulge in expertly roasted coffee and enjoy local flavors.

Cafe Santana Roasting Company

© Cafe Santana Roasting Company

For a seriously good cup of locally roasted coffee, head to Cafe Santana Roasting Company in Oakland. This chill neighborhood café roasts beans from around the world and serves them up fresh—with quality you can taste in every sip.

Highlights:
  • Fresh-roasted coffee made in-house with beans from global regions
  • Cozy, welcoming vibe perfect for catching up or unwinding
  • Small bites available to pair with your coffee
  • Friendly baristas who know their coffee
  • Local favorite in the heart of the Laurel District
Pro Tip:

Ask what beans they’re roasting that day—there’s usually something new to try, and they’ll gladly help you pick based on what you like.

4100 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland, CA 94619
Phone: 510-842-3027

Farley's East

Enjoy artisanal coffee and soak in a lively community vibe.

Farley's East

© Farley's East

Farley’s East isn’t just a coffee shop—it’s a community hangout that helped shape Oakland’s Uptown vibe. With a cozy indoor space and the first-ever parklet built by a café in the city, it’s the kind of place where locals come to sip, chat, and chill.

Highlights:
  • Great coffee and a laid-back, neighborhood feel
  • First parklet café seating in Oakland—perfect for people-watching
  • Strong community roots and a loyal local following
  • Simple menu, quality drinks, and a super welcoming vibe
  • Open seven days a week for your daily caffeine fix
Pro Tip:

Grab a seat outside on the parklet—it's one of the best spots in Uptown to sip your latte and soak in the neighborhood energy.

33 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: 510-835-7898

Plan Your Trip


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