As a full-time writer and coffee lover, I spend ample amounts of time curled up in the corner of my local coffee shop. A good cafe offers a cozy atmosphere, the chance for people-watching breaks, fast Wi-Fi, and most importantly a properly brewed cup of Joe. As a Natural State native, I’ve seen the capital’s coffee shop lineup change a lot over the years, and I’m always on the lookout for the next best thing. Here are my current votes for the best coffee shop Little Rock, Arkansas, has to offer!
The Best Coffee Shop Little Rock, Arkansas: 9 Top Options
In recent years, there’s been quite a shake-up in Little Rock’s coffee scene. Coffee snob favorites like Mylo Coffee Co. and Guillermo’s Gourmet have changed ownership, and the quality has suffered. While they are still solid options for most customers, the true coffee connoisseurs have moved on to better options. Some shops on this list are tried and true favorites, while others are newbies making a splash with creative concoctions and fabulous food options. Here are the best in no particular order!
Best Downtown Coffee Shop: Nexus Coffee & Creative
Location: 301 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, AR 72201
Nexus Coffee & Creative is a vibrant gathering place founded by Little Rock native Amy Counce and her father, Matt Moorehead. The idea for Nexus began in the fall of 2016, sketched on a napkin during a conversation between Amy and her father, aiming to create a community-focused space where coffee and creativity converge.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, often featuring live acoustic music by local artists. Guests frequently praise the friendly owners and the delightful Nona Bakes pastries—baked in-house daily. Nexus roasts its coffee on-site, offering blends like the Lighthouse Espresso Blend and single-origin beans from Ethiopia (the best coffee on Earth in MHO).
Additionally, they support local artisans and charities through their mercantile store!
Best Gourmet Coffee Shop: Fidel & Co. Coffee Roasters
Location: 500 Shall Ave., Suite B, Little Rock, AR 72202
Fidel & Co. Coffee Roasters, situated in Little Rock’s East Village, was established by childhood friends Fidel Samour and Jorge Raul Rivera from El Salvador. It’s a coffee shop for bold coffee lovers, and the owners take pride in their product from seedling to cup. Their vision was to create a space that not only offers exceptional coffee but also honors every individual involved in its journey from farm to cup.
The café sources its beans directly from Finca Santa Rosa, Raul’s farm nestled in the Chalatenango Mountains of El Salvador. This direct trade approach ensures transparency and fair compensation throughout the supply chain, reflecting their commitment to ethical practices. Most of the coffee is roasted on-site.
Guests appreciate the modern and welcoming atmosphere, complemented by a spacious patio and rustic seating. The menu features scratch-made food items crafted with top-quality, locally sourced ingredients, including fresh bread, pastries, and spreads. Popular dishes the avocado toast and lox and sesame bagels—both praised for their freshness and flavor!
Best Non-Traditional Coffee Shop Little Rock, Arkansas: Neverwhere West Little Rock
Location: 3702 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, AR 72116
If you’re a coffee enthusiast with a love for comics and all things quirky, Neverwhere Coffee, Comics & Oddities in North Little Rock is your spot. Nestled in North Little Rock, this gem is the brainchild of coffee enthusiasts Micah and Stormy Perry. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and shelves packed with comics, collectibles, and some truly fascinating oddities.
The vibe here is super welcoming, light, and airy—perfect for grabbing a cup of coffee, diving into a new graphic novel, or just soaking up the atmosphere. Their joe comes from legendary local brewers: Onyx Labs, and they offer a large line of teas and non-coffee drinks as well. People rave about the friendly staff and the unique experience at Neverwhere.
Best Hidden Gem Coffee Shop Little Rock, Arkansas: Italian Coffee Corner
Location: 425 W Capitol Ave, Suite 19, inside the Simmons Tower
If you’re craving a true taste of Italy in downtown Little Rock, Italian Coffee Corner is a must-visit destination that few know exists. This cozy café is owned by Bruno Muskaj, a passionate barista who also operates Coffee Corner in North Little Rock/Maumelle (Fantastic as well!). Bruno’s dedication to authentic Italian coffee culture shines in every cup served.
The menu offers classic espresso-based drinks crafted with care, including velvety cappuccinos, rich lattes, and smooth espressos. One standout option is the “Bellisimo,” a flavorful blend of Irish cream, vanilla, and white chocolate…yum! Guests love the warm, inviting atmosphere as well. Patrons consistently praise the quality of the coffee and the friendly service, as well as the convenient location that draws both downtown workers and visitors.
Best Bistro Coffee Shop Little Rock, Arkansas: The Spot @ SoMa
Location: 1424 Main St., Suite 104, in Little Rock’s lively SoMa District
The Spot @ SoMa offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual coffee break or a relaxed meal. Originally known as Press Waffle Co., the café has been rebranded under new ownership, bringing a fresh vibe to this beloved neighborhood spot.
The menu features a variety of delicious options, from sweet treats like cinnamon rolls to savory dishes like chicken and waffles and the Graceland—a unique combination of peanut butter, banana, and bacon heaped on a Liege waffle. For those looking for a heartier meal, options like the smoked chicken picnic plate or the classic SoMa Slam with eggs, bacon, and sausage are also available.
The café’s relaxed, laid-back vibe makes it a great spot to unwind with a cup of coffee or enjoy a full meal with friends.
The Best Breakfast Coffee Shop Little Rock, Arkansas: The Root Cafe
Location: 1500 S Main St. in Little Rock’s SoMa District
The Root is not a traditional coffee shop, but I include it on this list because it is hands-down one of the best places in the city to get breakfast. The Root is a favorite among locals, especially night-shift workers for its home-grown, farm-to-table breakfast menu. They partner with an array of Arkansas farmers, bakers, artisans, and Fidel & Co. Coffee Roasters to provide a hearty breakfast menu that is not only delicious but supports the local economy.
The Root has that quintessential fifties diner feel, with unique indoor/outdoor dining, and a vibe that’s all its own. It’s even been featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.
Best New Coffee Shop Little Rock, Arkansas: Pettaway Coffee
Location: 406 E 21st Street
Pettaway Coffee is one of the newer spots in town, bringing a fresh vibe to the Pettaway District. With its industrial-style interior, the café is modern and open. The café is the creation of owner Scott Pettaway, who wanted to bring a high-quality coffee experience to the area.
They serve coffee sourced from Blue Sail Coffee, a Conway Arkansas favorite coffee house and international roaster, known for its smooth, rich flavors. They also partner with Daisy Pastry Shoppe for an array of tasty pastries and cookies. Despite being the new kids on the block, Pettaway Coffee has quickly earned a reputation for great coffee and a relaxed space to hang out or get some work done.
Best Vintage Coffee Shop Little Rock, Arkansas: Rose Garden Market & Co.
Location: 3015 W. Markham St
Rose Garden Market & Co. is one of those spots that’s got a little bit of everything—coffee, vintage finds, craft beer, and even local art. It’s a cozy hangout spot with an intense personality. The owner, Maxi Dominguez, also runs Forever Thrifted and La Rosa Antigua, and this place is all about good vibes and supporting the local community.
Their coffee is where it’s at, especially if you’re into something a little different. Their signature rose-infused coffee has been getting a lot of love —super smooth with just a hint of floral sweetness. In the evenings, they’ve got craft beers and light bites as well as live music. If you want to plop down on granny’s floral couch, with a knitted Afgan, under a banner of vintage t’s and sip a beer, this is your kind of place!
Best Barista-led Coffee Shop: River City Coffee
Location: 2913 Kavanaugh Blvd in Hillcrest
This cozy café has been a local favorite for years, serving up expertly crafted coffee in a laid-back, welcoming space. Founded in 2005, River City has become a staple in the community. The café has a relaxed vibe with plenty of seating, making it a great spot to meet with friends or get some work done. There’s always vinyl spinning on the turntable and free Wi-Fi.
When it comes to the coffee, River City offers something for everyone. They brew two different drip coffees every morning—one light roast and one darker roast. Both the shop and barista Jeremy Bragg have won numerous Arkansas awards, and this is your spot if you want to talk the finer points of coffee or experiment with a new concoction. The baristas are professional, knowledgeable, and up for a challenge. Their espresso drinks are creative and always on point!
Best Coffee Shop Little Rock, Arkansas-Final Words
I hope you found something that piqued your interest on this list! When it comes to the best coffee shop Little Rock Arkansas has to offer, there are certainly mixed opinions, as everyone’s vibe and tastebuds vary a bit. However, you can’t hate on the quality roasts at Fidel & Co. You’ll never leave The Root Cafe hungry, and the baristas at River City do not disappoint!
Next time you’re rolling through Little Rock, you can’t go wrong with any of these amazing coffee shops!
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