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Winters in Memphis—you never know what to expect. It could be Snow-mageddon or a nice spring day. It could be 21 degrees or feel like the best day for a walk around the neighborhood. Who knows? But one thing we all know is Memphis has great coffee spots whether you need to warm up or cool down. Here are 4 of our favorite places for coffee on any occasion.
Belltower Coffeehouse and Studio at Highland
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Belltower Coffeehouse and Studio at Highland is an essential Memphis coffee shop. Its cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot to grab a coffee, a pastry, and get to know someone. Belltower serves specialty coffees plus a comprehensive breakfast and lunch menu. Their menu is varied and is comprised of something you’re sure to enjoy, like their very popular Grasshopper Latte or Honeysuckle Latte. If that doesn’t sound intriguing, you can always peruse their seasonal menu or see what the barista’s latest favorites are. One barista’s favorite is listed as an “Ice Cream Matcha Latte,” which is a mix of chocolate and vanilla syrups and, of course, matcha. Pair that with their chocolate chip cookie and your sweet tooth craving will officially be curbed. Not only do they serve coffee and unique dining options, but they also have a pottery studio attached. They offer classes for beginners and memberships for experienced potters. There is so much to discover at Belltower from trivia nights to wine nights to even catering. Their hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
Café Eclectic
Café Eclectic is true to its name. This Midtown hot spot is a must-try. Looking for a place to get a little work done? Café Eclectic is the answer. Want somewhere with all the good vibes? Just visit Café Eclectic. Café Eclectic has an array of specialty coffees like the Karamel Sutra, The Cinniful Jim, or Star & Micey. Each has their own distinctive combination of flavors and uses Illy’s signature blend. Beyond the coffee, you can always grab a delicious pastry provided by several local vendors, but if you have more time, they serve breakfast classics like pancakes, eggs, and bacon. They also serve lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner Monday through Friday, and Sunday brunch. Café Eclectic is dine-in, carry-out, delivery, and even drive-thru, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking for a great coffee and a Memphis classic. Café Eclectic is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for breakfast and lunch, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. for dinner, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays.
Scooter’s Coffee
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Sitting in a local coffee shop is great. Not everyone has the time for that. But don’t worry, Scooter’s Coffee gives you quick, positive service. Their goal is to help you “scoot in and scoot out.” Scooter’s Coffee is a drive-thru and walk-up window coffee shop. They don’t have a spot for you to hang around—other than a park bench or two. Scooter’s Coffee is ideal for those on the go, but that doesn’t negate its ability to be an excellent spot for coffee. They have a frequent rotation of seasonal coffees like their Strawberry Sweetheart Mocha they had for Valentine’s Day or Sea Salt Carmelicious. They’ve also got quick bites for those on the go like their omelet bites, donuts, and cake bites. Scooter’s even has smoothies if you’re looking to switch it up. They’re perfect for a last-minute coffee run before a meeting or an end-of-day caffeine boost. Scooter’s Coffee is open from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the weekends.
Memphis Chess Club
Memphis Chess Club is a unique spot in Downtown Memphis. Per the name, it is a chess club that doubles as a coffee shop. Upon entering the building you’re greeted with wooden tables that are also chess boards. If you’re interested in a quick game, you can pay to play a game or two or if you’re a chess fanatic you can buy a membership. To visit Memphis Chess Club and still enjoy the venue, you don’t have to be a chess player. They offer an entire wall full of other board games. In the middle of a work week, it’s a great spot to lock in and get a few things done. Their welcoming environment serves all-day breakfast, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads during lunch and pastries and snacks for a quick bite. They have all the coffee classics like cold brew, mochas, and café au lait. While you’re sipping your coffee, take them up on their all-day breakfast. Memphis Chess Club has an incredible Loaded Croissant consisting of perfectly cooked bacon, egg, cheese, and a beautiful and flakey croissant. Their hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of your coffee needs, Memphis has so many options to satisfy your caffeine craving—whether that be an iced matcha from Belltower to cool you off and have you dreaming of warmer weather, or a strawberry mocha from Scooter’s to keep you in love with the season. Maybe you’re thinking to yourself, “I work from home. I need a different option.” Don’t worry. Grindhouse Coffee is a great local option for those who like to brew their own. Try out any of the local coffee spots and you won’t be disappointed.