Whether you work entirely remotely or spend a few days of the week working from home, getting out of the office can provide a much-needed break from a busy workweek. For the school-going folk, the right cafe can provide a much-needed focus zone to crank out that last term paper.
While the comfort of your home can lend some peace to your normally hectic week, it’s easy to feel restless and distracted. You need a go-to environment that clears away the mind fog and kicks your motivation into gear.
Never say that dirty “S” word again (we’re looking at you, Starbucks). Here’s a look at some of the best coffee shops in Phoenix that feature large tables, hipster vibes, and electric outlets for all.
1. Cartel Coffee Lab: Tempe, Scottsdale, and Downtown Phoenix
Highlight: A well-known coffee brand in a hipster environment
With three equally inspiring locations, Cartel Coffee Lab is a hip and vibrant coffee shop. Cartel prides itself on its specialty coffee and the growers who supply its coffee beans. Each location offers a variety of indoor and outdoor seating options, along with free Wi-Fi as powerful as their strongest cup of coffee! The schedule of a remote worker can be in constant flux. Luckily, Cartel’s hours vary from location to location, giving you options and ensuring you’ll find one that’s open when you need it to be.
2. Window Coffee Bar: Uptown Phoenix
Highlight: Neon signs and a walk-up ordering window
If you’re a student or employee in the Camelback area of Uptown Phoenix, you may have seen Window Coffee Bar on your daily drive. Window is known for its inviting atmosphere, warm lighting, and consistently good coffee and other drinks. Not to mention, they also serve food and other treats that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. They’re fresh and sourced from local bakers. Try the avocado toast for a filling snack!
Window is a fun place to hang out with a friend or coworker with an iced drink, or to work on some important projects at a table on your own. Because Window is so popular, be sure to arrive at an off-time for a place to sit.
3. Moxie Coffee Co.: Uptown Phoenix
Highlight: On-site roasted coffee (try the NOLA cold brew!)
Moxie is located in the Uptown area of Phoenix, in the Biltmore area. Known for its modern vibe, it’s easy to find yourself writing up a report in one of the many seats available. Especially helpful is the bright lighting and free Wi-Fi. Any of the friendly staff members are happy to answer questions about what coffee you should try.
Enjoy a smooth latte and a crispy croissant pastry pairing while getting some quality work done!
4. Fillmore Coffee Co.: Downtown Phoenix
Highlight: Australian coffee culture
Check out Fillmore Coffee Co. if you’re looking for a chill but uplifting environment to get your work done. Located in the Skyline Lofts downtown, Fillmore is the coolest place to try out different coffees and meals for lunch. Try pairing that Excel sheet with a breakfast burrito and a classic mocha or latte. It’s easy to fit the vibe in a place like Fillmore when the music isn’t too loud and the staff are friendly.
In a hurry? Order online and pick up in store!
5. Songbird Coffee & Tea House: Downtown Phoenix
Highlight: Huge tea selection
Kick back and study in peace at this cozy little getaway in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, right off Roosevelt Row. Songbird Coffee & Tea House is a great alternative for any tea-obsessed individuals, who are often shoved aside for coffee lovers’ needs. Choose from dozens of loose-leaf or chai teas (or even a coffee), before settling down into your little corner.
6. Lux Central: Uptown Phoenix
Highlight: Open late (past midnight)
Of course, our list of the best coffee shops in Phoenix couldn’t be complete without this fan favorite. Lux is a bustling, late-night coffee shop with a full-service kitchen. Grab a specialty coffee and find inspiration in one of the three themed rooms. If you’re involved in Phoenix’s remote work community, you’re bound to feel right at home with others at Lux Central.
7. Skoden Coffee and Tea: Downtown Phoenix
Highlight: Indigenous and queer owned
Skoden Coffee and Tea is an indigenous and queer owned small business that features vegan and vegetarian food as well as the usual coffee and tea orders. Though limited in seating, the service is through the roof. With an unassuming entrance, you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden gem making your way around town with your laptop and notebook. Log into the free Wi-fi and grab yourself a cappuccino!
Pro tip: Try the blue corn donuts!
8. Lola Coffee: Downtown Phoenix and Arcadia
Highlight: The perfect espresso and a full breakfast menu
With a new location in Arcadia, Lola Coffee has expanded its reach to more Phoenix locals. Lola’s is family owned and operated and serves up great quality offerings. There is plenty of seating, including some outdoor tables. With tons of people stopping by for a few hours to get work done over a cup (or more!) of coffee, you won’t feel awkward setting up shop with all of your important projects.
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