People watch, work remotely, or just grab a latte (or two…)
Looking for a pick-me-up during your town tours? Our Connecticut locals have rounded up their favorite cafes and coffee shops – and we highly recommend stopping by at least a few of these hot spots as you’re touring the ‘burbs.
Greenwich and Cos Cob
- Stop by Sweet Pea’s Cafe in Old Greenwich for a coffee and freshly baked pastry (they also serve brunch on the weekends). The outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching on Sound Beach Ave.
- In downtown Greenwich, residents can grab a coffee from Gregory’s Coffee. This bright and friendly chain (which you might recognize from its many NYC outposts ) is convenient for anyone hopping on the train.
- Along Greenwich Ave you’ll also find CFCF. This local chain has been in Connecticut since 2012 and the newest location opened on East Putnam Ave in Riverside. It’s right next to a drop-in art studio if you’re feeling creative.
- Ada’s Kitchen + Coffee is another hotspot in Riverside. This charming cafe is located in a renovated house and it’s a favorite spot for locals to start the day. It’s a chef-driven sister restaurant of Roost and it’s won “Best Breakfast” in Greenwich multiple years in a row.
- In Cos Cob you can’t go wrong with Roost for an English muffin breakfast sandwich and iced coffee. They actually have other locations in Darien and Greenwich too.
- You’ll also find The Drawing Room in Cos Cob, a great option if you’re looking for more of an outing. In addition to coffee, breakfast and lunch, this chic spot serves a full British tea service complete with finger sandwiches and scones.
Darien and New Canaan
- For coffee in downtown Darien, it’s hard to beat Caffe Nero. There’s plenty of cozy seating inside with enough space (and outlets) if you want to set up and do some work. It’s also close to the train station for a pre-commute breakfast if you’re heading into the city. And it’s not far from FedEx, Whole Foods and the public library if you need a pick-me-up while running errands.
- In neighboring New Canaan, Dolce Italian Café on Elm Street is a local go-to. If it seems familiar, it’s the same as The Breakroom on Main Street in Norwalk. In addition to classic espresso drinks, the menu includes bagels, crepes, salads and gelato (they have quite the spread). Find a spot on the patio or take your coffee to go and explore the nearby shops.
Stamford
- Humbled Coffeehouse is a cozy local coffee shop perfect for curling up with a book. They serve locally roasted Bonjo Coffee and often offer seasonal specials. If you’re craving something sweet, check out their desserts (we have our eye on the apple cinnamon bread).
- If you have little ones, you’ll want to check out Honey Joe’s in downtown Stamford. This unique cafe serves La Colombe coffee and pastries plus it features a drop-in play area for kids. They’ll have a blast on the colorful castle-themed play structure while you get to sit back and sip your coffee.
- Just a short drive from Honey Joe’s, you’ll find Turning Point Coffee Roasters. Locals love this spot because, in addition to serving exceptional coffee roasted in-house, they also sell food and wine.
- And in the heart of downtown, there’s Lorca. Trust us, you’re going to want to order the churros at this Spanish-influenced cafe.
Norwalk and Rowayton
- When locals want to meet up with friends for a laid-back brunch, Ardens Coastal Cafe on Rowayton Ave is a great option. Try a latte with their house-made cashew milk before deciding what to order from their seasonal food menu.
- In Norwalk, Cafe Dolce is a great lunch or work spot but it’s especially known for its baked goods (the Italian-style coffee pairs perfectly with their pastries). This town is also home to The Norwalk Art Space, a free community arts center that offers classes, live music, exhibition, performances and more. There’s a cafe on-site if you’re looking for some coffee or a light lunch while exploring the museum.
- Exploring SoNo? Stop into Affogato for their namesake treat – a delicious blend of ice cream and coffee. Snag a sidewalk table for some people-watching before continuing to wander around this waterfront neighborhood.
Westport
- In Westport, GG & Joe is a standout. It’s on Main Street next to Madewell, J Crew and Lululemon for some shopping, plus the menu features acai bowls, smoothies and toast alongside coffee and espresso drinks.
- Stop by The Granola Bar if you’re looking for a healthy breakfast before exploring Winslow Park. In addition to the expansive coffee selection, you can order breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast and, of course, their famous granola bowls.
- Across the river, there’s Winfield Street Coffee. This NYC-area and Florida micro-chain serves delicious deli sandwiches in addition to coffee. And good news for pup parents, this cafe is dog-friendly.
Fairfield
- The funky Las Vetas Lounge in downtown Fairfield opens early, making it a great option for a pre-commute coffee. Grab a coffee and a scone before heading to the nearby train station or stick around if you’re looking for a work-from-home spot.
- Not far from Las Vetas Lounge is another town favorite, Shearwater Coffee Bar. This spot focuses on organic small-batch roasts and it’s a great stop before heading to the nearby public library. Keep an eye on their website for updates on live music and other local events.
- There’s an outpost of The Granola Bar in Fairfield and this location features a patio with plenty of outdoor seating. And if you love this spot you can stop by their other area locations in Westport, Greenwich, Stamford and Rye.
- For a pick-me-up in Southport, Sono Baking Company is a must. The coffee is delicious and they make incredible cinnamon rolls, scones and croissants. If you move to town, this is also a great spot to grab freshly baked sourdough.
Ready to explore the Connecticut suburbs with a coffee in hand? Let’s chat! Schedule your FREE Suburbs Strategy session and we’ll help you map out your next town tour – complete with a cafe stop or two.