In-depth political discussions and multiple lengthy sessions call for a caffeinated drink. Downtown Austin offers a wide selection of coffee shops that can fuel your political discussions.
Cookbook Bar & Cafe
710 W. César Chavez St.
At this new counter-service eatery located in the Austin Public Library, Chef Drew Curren of ELM Restaurant Group uses recipes from inspirational cookbooks with a focus on the South and Mexico, and the menus change seasonally and often incorporate local farm-to-table ingredients. Beverage options include espresso drinks, tea, beer, wine, and specialty cocktails. In a hurry? Head to the rooftop and hit the coffee cart, serving up drip coffee and beautiful views.
Hideout Theatre & Coffeehouse
617 Congress
Downtown Austin’s oldest indie coffee house also boasts two theatres, one upstairs, one downstairs, that play hosts to films, stand-up, performance art, and bands. With tasty treats and a great view of the Congress goings-on, this storefront gathering spot is a major find.
Walton’s Fancy and Staple
609 W. Sixth
Flowers, gifts, a sumptuous pastry case, deli sandwiches, and lots of coffee are all for the taking at this eclectic West Sixth spot.
Alta’s Cafe
74 Trinity
Located in the Waller Creek Boathouse, this cafe serves coffee, wine, smoothies, and a small food menu along with terrific views of Lady Bird Lake and the hike & bike trail.
CoffeePeople
603 N. Lamar
Coffee surrounded by literature, as it should be! This cozy little shop is located inside Austin’s own BookPeople, Texas’ largest independent bookstore.
Jo’s Coffee
242 W. Second
Counter service and pushed-back weekend hours are friendly to both early birds and hungover souls, though seating inside or on the patio can be limited during peak hours. Highlights are the expert hot/cold coffee bar, huge made-to-order pancakes, an egg white omelette, and breakfast tacos like the black bean, avocado, and pico de gallo.
Austin Java
301 W. Second
Beyond the necessary hot cup o’ joe, Austin Java offers an array of sustenance plus luscious desserts to get you back on the move on a cold day.
Houndstooth Coffee
401 Congress Ste. 100-C,
The baristas here are passionately devoted to serving you a perfect cup of coffee. Located on the first floor of the Frost Tower (aka the one that looks like an owl).
Caffé Medici
200 Congress #2B
It’s all about perfectly prepared coffee. Period. Located inside the Austonian.
Merit Coffee
222 West Ave. #120
The San Antonio-based roasting company (they expanded to Austin in 2017) offering a rotating selection of single-origin pour-overs, matcha, and nitro cold brew will have your caffeine covered, and the shop is located one block away from the new Central Austin Public Library. With lots of natural light in the bright coffee shop, it’s perfect for a midday refuel.
Le Cafe Crêpe
200 San Jacinto
This is a full-service espresso and coffee shop that specializes in crêpes for breakfast, lunch, and dessert. Create your own crêpes from the savory filling choices.
This article appears in September 7 • 2018.