I would ask “Who loves coffee?” but I think a better question is “Who NEEDS coffee?” If you’re anything like me, a.k.a NOT a morning person, the first thing you do when you open your eyes is think about that caffeine rush that you’ll soon need before anyone dares tries to speak to you. While the convenience of Dunkin’ Donuts or Starbucks is never under appreciated, I love to explore and support small, local coffee shops.

Follow below to see where I find my caffeine fix.

1.

The Nitro Bar – The Nitro Cart

West Side, Providence, Rhode Island

Last year, I discovered The Nitro Cart, a coffee cart hand-made from scrap wood. What was so unique about their coffee is that it is brewed for 24 hours in cold water, bringing out the deeper flavors of the coffee without the acidic bite, and then (wait for it!) they infuse it with nitrogen and pour it on tap, which results in an extra smooth coffee.

Recently, The Nitro Cart expanded into The Nitro Bar, so think The Nitro Cart minus the wheels, but add plants, couches, the most amazing churros you will ever taste, and a variety of coffee options. Not to mention, their bathroom is equipped with pink flamingo wallpaper.

My suggestion: Oat milk cappuccino, but seriously, anything will taste amazing.

2.

New Harvest Coffee Roasters

Downtown Providence, Rhode Island

Now that the weather is (hopefully) on its way to warmer days, I’ve been exploring Downtown Providence during my lunch break. Recently, I came across New Harvest Coffee Roasters – a quiet, dimly lit, peaceful coffee shop nestled in the newly revived Arcade Providence.

I was instantly drawn to their music choice, and the calm vibe I felt upon entering. BUT, if you’re someone who is often stressed out about finding parking Downtown, the best thing is that New Harvest Coffee Roasters is available for wholesale.

My suggestion: Cycle Drome, it’s a mild blend and can be found at your local Whole Foods.

3.

Dave’s Coffee

Fox Point, Providence, Rhode Island

For the longest time, I have seen Dave’s coffee milk syrup in shops like Wright’s Dairy Farm or Imagine Gift Store; but it was not until recently, did I decided to stop into one of their coffee roasteries. I instantly fell in love with their aesthetic – bright white walls, with wood paneling that offered a peaceful, outdoor vibe.

While it is small and can be hard to find, Dave’s Coffee is worth it for the atmosphere alone! Not to mention, they have the most amazing chocolate chip and sea salt cookies (tip: ask the barista to heat up the cookie – trust me, you will be dreaming about the deliciousness for days!)

My suggestion: Vanilla Bourbon Latte

4.

Sydney Providence

Downtown Providence, Rhode Island

There’s no other way to describe this coffee spot, except you will immediately feel at ease. The atmosphere is very warm and friendly, and the décor is just as amazing as their food and coffee. This is a perfect spot to finish up some work, study for an exam, or even read a book. What’s even more amazing, is they source their goods from local vendors such as Wrights Dairy Farm.

My suggestion: Matcha latte and bacon, egg, and cheese on a croissant.

5.

Felicia’s Coffee

East Greenwich, Rhode Island

While from an outside glance, Felicia’s Coffee might not seem as appealing as all the others mentioned above, it is one of the most comfortable atmospheres. Here you will find everyone from business professionals meeting for coffee, to college students visiting with friends, or a family relaxing by the fire. My reasoning for visiting Felicia’s Coffee is the rave of their crumb cake, which deserves all the hype it gets! There are many options of crumb cake, that melt in your mouth and make it hard to “save for later.”

My suggestion: Vanilla Chai Tea and their blueberry crumb cake.