My wife and I move about every two years and we have a passion for coffee! We have lived in Monterey for over a year now and while our time is dwindling down here before we move again, we are really taking in all the best parts of Monterey.
Just about every time we move, the first thing we try and find is the best coffee places in town. Which can be a difficult task because my wife is a sweet coffee girly and I am more of a want to taste my coffee kind of girly.
Throughout this blog, I am going to let you know where to go for coffee while in Monterey and what they have to offer. From where they are located to what you can expect from the moment you walk in.
If you are new here, thank you for joining my corner and if you are visiting Monterey, welcome!
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Monterey Coffee Shops
Monterey coffee shops are full of surprises. They are each unique and amazing! Stop into any of these coffee shops before starting your day exploring the views, food and outdoor recreation Monterey has to offer and you are bound to have a great start to your day!
Alta
Alta is my personal favorite! Not only is the coffee amazing but they have so many incredible pastry options.
Located in the vibrant Alvarado Street, Alta is a beloved and frequented spot for coffee enthusiasts. This charming cafe exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, drawing locals and tourists alike to indulge in their delightful offerings.
Alta’s prime location in the heart of Monterey adds to its popularity. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the pleasant hum of conversation. The interior boasts a cozy ambiance, with comfortable seating areas both inside and outside.
Speaking of their coffee, Alta’s baristas are true artisans. They craft each cup with care and precision, utilizing premium beans sourced from renowned roasters. Whether you prefer a classic latte, an aromatic pour-over, or a rich and velvety cappuccino, you can trust that Alta will deliver a satisfying and memorable coffee experience.
While Alta can get quite bustling, especially during weekends, don’t let the potential line discourage you. The wait is undoubtedly worth it!
Apart from their exceptional coffee, Alta also offers a delectable array of pastries and light bites. Treat yourself to a freshly baked croissant, a scrumptious muffin, or perhaps a tempting slice of cake to complement your drink of choice.
Overall, Alta is more than just a coffee shop. It’s a gathering place for the community, a haven for coffee lovers, and a testament to the city’s thriving culinary scene. So, next time you find yourself in Monterey, make sure to carve out some time to savor the ambiance and flavors that Alta has to offer. You won’t be disappointed!
This is a must try coffee shop when in Monterey!
Bookworks
This is my wife’s personal favorite and a close second for me! This coffee shop is located in the heart of the Pacific Grove neighborhood which is about 5-10 minutes away from Cannery Row. They have wonderful coffee but the best part may be the bookshop in the back!
The vibes are quaint small coffee shop but do not let that deter you because the coffee is exquisite. They have a variety of flavored syrups plus an additional specials menu offering something in season or something related to the time of the year. i.e. Christmas!
Bookworks is not only renowned for its extensive book collection but also for its delectable pastry offerings. Their mouthwatering selection is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
When it comes to pastries, Bookworks takes the cake (quite literally!). Indulge in their freshly baked muffins, which are widely regarded as the best in town. Soft, moist, and bursting with flavors, each bite is a heavenly experience. But it doesn’t end there. Bookworks also caters to those with dietary restrictions by offering a range of delicious gluten-free options. Whether you are gluten-intolerant or simply prefer to avoid gluten, you can still delight in the irresistible pastries without compromising on taste and quality.
Visit Bookworks today and embark on a culinary journey that combines the joy of reading with the pleasure of indulging in delightful coffee and pastries. Your taste buds will thank you!
Counterpoint
This coffee shop is located in the Seaside neighborhood of Monterey. Seaside is about 10 minutes away from the heart of Monterey but Counterpoint is well worth the drive.
This coffee shop is a local favorite. It has a variety of options for coffee and homemade pastries. (The chocolate cookie may be my favorite in town!)
The shop is quiet but full of life. The decor is minimal but has plenty of spaces to sit down and enjoy your coffee. This is a great spot to sit down and study or meet up with a friend because it is quiet enough that you will be able to hear one another.
They also offer other drinks in a cooler up front, including beer from a local brewery down the street! If you really fall in love with the vibes, they also offer some cool looking merch. (Who doesn’t love merch?!)
If you are in the Monterey or Seaside area, you should absolutely check out Counterpoint, it is worth the stop.
Acme Coffee Roasting
Acme is also located in the Seaside neighborhood of Monterey. It can be hard to spot but once you spot it, it is easy to find parking and walk up to some of the best coffee in town.
Acme Coffee Shop is a charming little café nestled in the heart of Monterey County. With their expertise in all things coffee, they have gained a loyal following of coffee enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee drinker or just starting your coffee journey, Acme is the perfect place to indulge in the rich and aromatic world of coffee.
Not only can you enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at Acme, but you can also take some of their coffee beans home with you. Their beans are highly sought after and can be found in various local stores and markets throughout Monterey County. So whether you’re looking to brew your own cup of Acme coffee at home or share the experience with others, you can easily get your hands on their beans.
So, if you’re in the mood for a remarkable coffee experience, head on over to Acme Coffee Shop. Immerse yourself in a world of flavors, aromas, and expertise that will leave you craving for more. Discover why Acme is not just a coffee shop, but a destination for coffee lovers, one cup at a time.
They also offer a variety of other products to include fresh pastries and even some gluten free pastries from a local gluten free bakery! One of their most popular items is their Cold Brew offered in the front by the cash register. It is a cold brew concentrate and a little bit can go a long way. It tastes wonderful and is worth the stop in alone to grab some!
This is a great stop for coffee lovers of Monterey!
Tidal Coffee
Tidal Coffee is located on Cannery Row, or the heart of Monterey! It is connected to one of the best hotels in town and right on the water of Monterey Bay.
At Tidal, you’ll find an extensive menu featuring an exquisite array of coffee selections and delectable dining options. The art of crafting the perfect cup of coffee is taken to new heights at Tidal, where expert baristas skillfully brew a range of aromatic blends sourced from the finest coffee beans around the world.
Complementing their exceptional coffee, Tidal offers a delectable array of food options that will satisfy any craving. Whether you’re seeking a quick and convenient grab-and-go snack or a more filling meal, Tidal has you covered. Choose from their tantalizing assortment of freshly baked pastries, hearty sandwiches made with artisan breads, or nourishing salads bursting with vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients.
The best part about this coffee shop is the outside seating to go out and enjoy the views! You can see the gorgeous waters of Monterey Bay and keep an eye out for seals, otters and whales! If you don’t know already, Monterey Bay is a protected area so the animals thrive here and they are always out to play!
This is great coffee shop to stop at before you head over to walk Cannery Row or make your way to the famous Monterey Aquarium. Fair warning that parking can be difficult in this area but there is a parking garage located right a couple blocks up right in between Tidal Coffee and all of the Cannery Row attractions.
If you are visiting Cannery Row, this should be your go to coffee spot!
Happy Girl Kitchen
Happy Girl Kitchen is located right between Monterey and Pacific Grove. It is a great location for coffee and breakfast prior to walking Cannery row and checking out the aquarium. There is typically a good amount of parking on the street right in front of the shop and it is even located nearby one of Monterey’s best thrift shops! Coffee and thrifting?!
Happy Girl is a dream find! There coffee is delicious but the vibes are even better. The Avocado toast on sourdough bread is phenomenal and you have to try it! They have lots of options for coffee, pastries and food to order.
The staff is great and ready to answer any questions you may have. Happy Girl even offers a variety of classes to learn new talents in the kitchen. I recently missed their sourdough class and patiently waiting for their next class! Check out their website and they may be offering something that you enjoy while you are in town.
They also have a store attachment in addition to the coffee shop that offers their homemade jams, pickles and many more. The best part is that if you love some jam, they have a cook book so you can make some of your own!
Be sure to add Happy Girl to your itinerary when planning your next trip to Monterey!
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