So I’ve been crazy busy at work lately, really just with life in general (aren’t we all), and it has left me with little time for rejuvenation!! I needed to decompression badly, so last Friday I took the day off and used the weekend to unwind by heading to a few of our favorite coffee and tea joints.
It’s amazing how sitting alone for just a few hours at a time, enjoying a nice warm beverage and a relaxing atmosphere, can completely change your mood and energy. Since I hung out in coffee and tea houses all weekend I thought it was only fitting to pay tribute to the places that set my mojo back on track. Below is a list, in no particular order, of what we feel are the top coffee and tea spots in Orlando and why.
Dandelion Communitea Cafe (Mills 50)- This is our personal fav. Laura and I just can’t get enough of “Dandy”, as we like to refer to it. The vegan/vegetarian food is some of the best in town, the teas sooth the soul and the space is eclectic and comfy with much of the decore coming from recycled materials. This place is definitely all about sustainability, community and culture and we can’t get enough!!
Downtown Credo (College Park)- A coffeehouse with a unique business model, this non-profit helps support other Orlando organizations all while doubling as a donation based coffeehouse. That’s right, you get to enjoy your fair trade coffee and give back what you can. The space is modern yet relaxed and of course patrons are sure to leave in agood mood knowing their helping their local community.
Austin’s Coffee (Winter Park)- A hot spot with a hipster crowd, this tiny coffee shop is all about hanging out. Fun art on the walls, lots of live entertainment and open 24/7 this place is a haven for many into the wee hours of the morning!
Infusion Tea (College Park)- This organic tea cafe is just a feel good place! It’s bright and cheerful and I’ve yet to meet someone who didn’t love it. The vegan menu is fabulous, the tea options plentiful (tip I always get the chai tea), the staff friendly and they also have a fun little shop of handmade and local items for sale.
Sleeping Moon Cafe (Winter Park)- The warm vibe this place gives off is sure to leave you wondering how the hours you spent inside just slipped away from you. I’ve also gotta say I really dig their music station and the large and beautiful artwork on their walls. It’s the perfect setting to relax but the space is still conducive for getting work done. Just keep in mind the tea options are a little limited.
Pom Pom’s Teahouse and Sandwicheria (Milk District)- An explosion of color and flavor, Pom Pom’s is all about standing out. From their custom gourmet sandwiches to the funky local art on the walls, this local spot is sure to excite. The space may be small but there’s lots of personality here, staff included, and they never disappoint.
Drunken Monkey Coffee Bar (Milk District)- You’ll only find fair trade and organic coffee at this local shop, all of which is roasted in house to ensure freshness. Drunk Monkey also serves some tasty vegan and non-vegan menu items and they even have a drive through if you’re in need of a quick fix. The space’s decor is fairly simple but the space works for hanging out or getting some much needed work done.
Bikes Beans and Bordeaux (Audubon District)- If you couldn’t guess from the name, this spot is likely to be a cyclists fav lunch spot, but don’t let that fool you. This spot would be a home run for anyone who loves good food and coffee. Owned by two cyclists, this cafe’s decor, is gear and bike themed creating a fun spot to enjoy a meal. An extra fun tip. . . Blue Bird Bake Shop is only a few doors down if you’re in the mood for a sweet treat when you leave.
Achilles Art and Cafe (Metro West)- This coffee shop is one run with lots of TLC. The space has a cozy and homey feel, so much so you could easily forget your not at home in your own living room. The coffee’s good, the staff friendly and the snacks are tasty. Entertainment is plentiful with several TVs up in the space, games and books available for use, and if you want to get exotic they even have hookahs available for use.
Palmano’s Cafe (Winter Park)- Located on our favorite ave. this little cafe provides caffeine and rich delicacies like berries and brie (the eggplant panini is to die for too). It’s a quiet little place, as they ask you to please leave your laptop at home, making it the perfect place to dig up one of those archaic things we call a book.
So there you have it— AMPlified Culture’s Top 10 coffee and tea joints. Are there any spots not on our list that you just absolutely adore? We always love when you share! Let us know below.