I’m a self-professed coffee snob. I grind my own beans, am persnickety about which creamers I’m pairing with my blend of choice, and enjoy a good cup (or three or four . . .) every day. One of the first things that I did when I moved back to Charlottesville was scope out the local coffee shops. Each one differs from the next, but they all have one thing in common: caffeine!
Mudhouse
My favorite Charlottesville coffeehouse is Mudhouse. The coffee selection is unmatched in this city. My favorite roast is Costa Rica, but I would never say no to the Espresso or Mudhouse blends. My go-to drink is a skinny vanilla latte. I don’t know what they do differently than others shops, but I promise you that the coffee just tastes better!
If the coffee wasn’t reason enough to visit Mudhouse, the atmosphere seals the deal. Located on the Downtown Mall, the somewhat eclectic interior is perfect for the creative type. I love when I am able to score an armchair by a window. Great coffee, comfy chair, and prime people watching.
Java Java
Located at opposite end of the Downtown Mall, is aesthetically a world apart from Mudhouse. The coffee is delicious – they too make a good skinny vanilla latte! – but the interior is much more formal than that of Mudhouse. The crowd tends to skew older, and there are plenty of arm chairs to go around. I’ve found that it’s a prime location for an afternoon business meeting. Oh, and they make a fantastic gluten-free biscotti.
Shenandoah Joe
Shenandoah Joe has good coffee. It’s that simple. They roast their coffee by hand and offer it not only in their comfy coffee shop but also for wholesale. I’ve picked up a bag of their coffee in my local grocery store many times. When I have a lot of work to do, I find this to be a prime location to set up with my laptop and a good ol’ cup of Joe.
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Greenberry’s
Greenberry’s is the franchise that feels like a one-of-a-kind coffee shop. With locations throughout Central Virginia, as well as New Jersey and Louisiana, Greenberry’s has managed to keep a fully local feel and is a favorite of University of Virginia students. My personal favorite location is at Barracks Road. Snagging an outdoor table is a feat, but if you manage it, it’s the best way to enjoy a cup of brew – particularly if it’s early in the morning.
C’Ville Coffee
C’Ville Coffee is the newest coffee shop in my rotation. I can walk to it easily and am able to enjoy a cup of freshly-brewed coffee along side some pretty great food. What’s different about this coffee shop is that it’s kid- and adult-friendly. There’s a play area for the little ones and an “adults only” area for those who are looking for some peace and quiet. Hint: they also have live music a few times a week!
Straight from a coffee aficionado: these are my favorite places to spend a lazy Saturday morning around Charlottesville. Or to grab a coffee on my lunch break. Or have an afternoon business meeting. You get the idea.
Tell me – how do you take your coffee?
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