If you are like me, coffee is a huge (and probably the best) part of your day. Starting off the day with some caffeine is the only way to make it through. Sometimes we want to just grab our coffee and go, but there are other times when we want to sit and catch up with our friends over a latte or espresso. I've given out some awards to my favorite places to get my caffeine fix, so next time, ditch the normal Dunkin' or Starbucks and try out some of these other places to satisfy your coffee craving.
Best View: Java Madness (Wakefield)
Located on Salt Pond Road, this is the perfect place to grab coffee in the summer. Once you have got your cup of joe in hand, you can step outside onto a porch that overlooks the marina and boats. It truly captures the essence and beauty of the Ocean State. Java Madness frequently has acoustic artists come and perform as well, making your coffee shop Spotify playlist a reality.
Try the Maui Madness Iced Coffee. A mix of banana and hazelnut, this is like summer in a coffee cup. With a little bit of milk and sugar, this is my go-to before I head to work every day in the summer. And plus, I love the name.
Best Flavor Variety: Ma's Donuts and More (Middletown)
Open 24-7, Ma's is every college student's dream. With countless flavors like raspberry, marshmallow, and snickerdoodle, Ma's pretty much has it all. Aside from their variety of coffee, they also have countless donuts (that are only $1!), Danishes, bagels, muffins and sweet bread, just to name a few. They also have a drive-thru, making it even easier to get what you want!
Try the Iced Mocha Java. With so many flavors, it can be difficult to decide on just one. I like to keep it simple with an iced mocha. At most other coffee places, an iced mocha is fairly expensive, but Ma's keeps it cheap and delicious at the same time.
Best Atmosphere: Vanuatu Coffee Roasters (Providence)
Recently opened on Federal Hill, Vanuatu Coffee Roasters has that perfect coffee shop vibe. With a very modern atmosphere, delicious coffee and a friendly staff, it is great for getting some work done. What makes their coffee so delicious is the fact that they get it straight from the remote island of Vanuatu. It is extremely fresh and made the right way.
Try the chicken and rice soup. Yes, I know it is not coffee, but a trip here is not complete without tasting this delicious homemade soup. On a cold, windy day, a cup of this is exactly what you need to warm yourself right up.
Best Overall: Brewed Awakenings (Johnston, Cherry Hill, Cranston, Warwick, South County)
With five locations throughout the state, several with drive-thrus, and all with free Wi-Fi, Brewed wins my award for best overall coffee experience in R.I. They have a variety of drinks from teas to frozen drinks to hot chocolate, and also have many options for pastries as well as sandwiches and salads. With lots of space to do work and friendly baristas to strike up a conversation with, it is easy to say that this place feels like home, just with better coffee, of course.
Try the Harley. Everything here is good, but this is one of my favorites. This frozen drink has a little bit of all of the good stuff you love: chocolate, vanilla, caramel and whipped cream. I guarantee you that it is one of the most delicious things you will ever have, and it will fulfill all of your cravings.
Rhode Island has so much to offer for the coffee lover. With the state being so small, any coffee addict can find their perfect spot within an hour. There are countless unknown spots to get coffee and relax, but these highlighted ones are some of my most visited and most loved. Keep looking to find your favorite cafe!
