When it comes to coffee, Pennsylvania has something special brewing in every corner. From cozy independent cafés in small towns to trendy espresso bars in the heart of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the state’s coffee scene keeps growing — and 2025 is shaping up to be its best year yet. If you’re a local who loves your morning pour-over or a traveler chasing latte art and good vibes, here are the top 15 best coffee shops in Pennsylvania that you absolutely need to visit this year.
1. Elixr Coffee Roasters – Philadelphia
Elixr Coffee Roasters is a Philadelphia favorite known for its light roasts, vibrant atmosphere, and award-winning baristas. The café’s minimalist design, large murals, and warm energy make it a great spot to relax or work. Their single-origin beans are sourced ethically and roasted in small batches, ensuring every cup is flavorful and balanced.
Don’t miss: The Honey Latte and their signature Ethiopia Guji brew.
Location: 207 S Sydenham St, Philadelphia, PA
Website: Elixr Coffee Roasters
2. Commonplace Coffee – Pittsburgh
A household name in western Pennsylvania’s coffee culture, Commonplace Coffee has built a loyal following for its craft roasting and community-focused spaces. The vibe is laid-back, the baristas are knowledgeable, and the brews are top-notch. Whether you order a cortado or a cold brew, you’ll notice the passion behind every cup.
Pro tip: Try their “Commonplace House Blend” — a perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, and fruit notes.
Location: Multiple branches across Pittsburgh
Website: Commonplace Coffee
3. Passenger Coffee – Lancaster
Passenger Coffee has gained national recognition for its sustainable sourcing and unique approach to freshness. They freeze their green coffee beans immediately after harvest to preserve the flavor — something few others do. The result? A cup of coffee that tastes as lively as the day it was roasted.
Locals say: The baristas love to talk about the stories behind each bean, making it both a learning and tasting experience.
Location: 7 W King St, Lancaster, PA
Website: Passenger Coffee
4. ReAnimator Coffee – Philadelphia
For those who appreciate a slightly edgier vibe, ReAnimator Coffee is the go-to spot. The interior has that perfect industrial-chic aesthetic, paired with expertly roasted coffee. They work closely with farmers around the world to ensure both quality and sustainability.
What to try: Their seasonal pour-over and the Mocha Latte — smooth, rich, and unforgettable.
Location: 310 W Master St, Philadelphia, PA
Website: ReAnimator Coffee
5. Square One Coffee – Lancaster & Philadelphia
Founded by a husband-and-wife duo, Square One Coffee has become one of Pennsylvania’s most respected specialty roasters. They take pride in small-batch roasting and a friendly, family-like atmosphere. Their focus on transparency and relationship-based sourcing fits perfectly with the modern coffee lover’s values.
Best choice: The Espresso Flight — ideal for anyone wanting to explore different roast profiles in one visit.
Location: 145 N Duke St, Lancaster, PA
Website: Square One Coffee
6. La Colombe Coffee Roasters – Philadelphia
La Colombe is a Philadelphia legend — it helped spark the third-wave coffee movement in the U.S. The café’s airy industrial setting and signature Draft Latte (yes, the one in the can) have made it iconic. Beyond aesthetics, La Colombe sources beans directly from farmers, ensuring sustainability and quality.
Must-try: The original Draft Latte on tap — smooth, foamy, and naturally sweet.
Location: 1335 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA
Website: La Colombe Coffee Roasters
7. Green Dragon Coffee – Ephrata
Located within the famous Green Dragon Farmers Market, this small-batch coffee stop has grown into a hidden gem of Lancaster County. They roast locally, and every cup reflects that farm-town authenticity Pennsylvania is known for.
Why locals love it: It’s the perfect mix of strong coffee and small-town friendliness — plus, you can grab fresh pastries and farm treats right next door.
Location: 955 N State St, Ephrata, PA
8. The Brew House – West Chester
This community-driven café serves top-quality espresso in a cozy, brick-walled environment that feels like home. The Brew House partners with Pennsylvania roasters to keep its offerings local and seasonal.
Pro tip: Visit on weekends for live acoustic sessions and limited-edition latte flavors. Their Maple Cinnamon Latte is a fan favorite.
Location: 124 W Market St, West Chester, PA
9. Café Liminal – Pittsburgh
A newer addition to Pittsburgh’s coffee scene, Café Liminal stands out for its art-filled space, plant-forward menu, and perfectly balanced coffee. The name says it all — it’s meant to be a “liminal space” between work and rest, a place to slow down.
Try this: Their Lavender Oat Latte and vegan pastries — stylish, Instagrammable, and delicious.
Location: 4532 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA
10. One Village Coffee – Souderton
One Village Coffee isn’t just a café — it’s a mission. Family-owned and certified B Corp, they partner with global farmers and donate to community projects. Their café offers a welcoming vibe with ethically sourced, perfectly roasted beans.
Best pick: The Love Blend, a medium roast that embodies balance — chocolatey, bright, and smooth.
Location: 4050 Bethlehem Pike, Souderton, PA
Website: One Village Coffee
11. Little Amps Coffee Roasters – Harrisburg
Little Amps has become a central part of Harrisburg’s creative and coffee culture. With a fun retro vibe, colorful interiors, and world-class beans roasted in-house, it’s everything you want from an indie coffee shop. Their pour-overs and espressos are consistently praised by locals.
Try this: The Black & Tan Cold Brew — smooth, slightly sweet, and perfect for summer mornings.
Location: 133 State St, Harrisburg, PA
Website: Little Amps Coffee Roasters
12. Square Bean Coffee – Mount Joy
A small-town gem with big flavors. Square Bean Coffee serves specialty espresso drinks and baked goods that rival big-city cafés. The atmosphere is cozy — great for quiet mornings or study sessions.
What makes it special: Locally sourced ingredients and a menu that changes seasonally.
Tip: Their Hazelnut Mocha is one of the best in central Pennsylvania.
Location: 18 E Main St, Mount Joy, PA
13. Redstart Roasters – Pittsburgh
Redstart Roasters is Pittsburgh’s first bird-friendly certified coffee roaster — blending environmental care with exceptional quality. The café offers a minimalist vibe with plenty of natural light and warm service.
Must-try: The Peru Cenfrocafe — medium roast, chocolatey notes with a clean finish.
Fun fact: A portion of proceeds supports bird habitat conservation!
Location: 224 N Euclid Ave, Pittsburgh, PA
Website: Redstart Roasters
14. Denim Coffee – Chambersburg
Denim Coffee started in Shippensburg and has expanded across south-central PA. Their mission is to make specialty coffee approachable and friendly for everyone. Baristas here are known for their knowledge — and their latte art.
Signature drink: The Denim Latte — espresso with house-made vanilla syrup and steamed milk. Smooth and comforting.
Location: 15 N Main St, Chambersburg, PA
Website: Denim Coffee
15. River Trail Roasters – Conshohocken
Set along the Schuylkill River, this scenic coffee spot is perfect for weekend cyclists, walkers, and anyone who loves a good brew with a view. River Trail Roasters roast their own beans on site and focus on quality over quantity.
Best pick: The Caramel Cold Brew on a warm afternoon — refreshing, rich, and locally roasted.
Why go: It’s one of those rare spots where great coffee meets outdoor relaxation.
Location: 121 Fayette St, Conshohocken, PA
Website: River Trail Roasters
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve seen 15 of Pennsylvania’s finest coffee shops, it’s clear the Keystone State is brewing with creativity. From Philadelphia’s big-city artistry to Harrisburg’s cozy corners and the countryside cafés in Lancaster or Mount Joy, there’s something for every coffee personality.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring new flavors or a local chasing the perfect roast, these shops promise more than just caffeine — they offer stories, community, and connection in every cup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best coffee shops in Pennsylvania for 2025?
Top picks include Elixr Coffee Roasters, Passenger Coffee, Commonplace Coffee, La Colombe, and Little Amps Coffee Roasters.
2. Which Pennsylvania city has the best coffee scene?
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh lead the way, but Lancaster and Harrisburg have amazing local cafés too.
3. Do these coffee shops offer vegan or dairy-free options?
Yes, most of them provide oat, almond, or soy milk alternatives for lattes and cappuccinos.
4. Can I buy beans from these cafés online?
Absolutely — many, like Passenger Coffee and ReAnimator Coffee, sell fresh beans on their websites.
5. Are these coffee shops good for remote work?
Yes, several like Elixr and Square One Coffee have free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a quiet environment.
