When you think of coffee shops, what do you see? Probably a guy with glasses on his laptop in the corner, baristas rushing to make specialized coffee orders (did they want almond or oat milk???) behind the counter… But in honor of International Coffee Day — October 1 — we want to showcase some of the more eccentric places to fuel your caffeine addiction.
Muchacho — Atlanta, Georgia
The unique pairing of coffee and tacos doesn’t sound too appealing but Muchacho does it right. Within its 70s-inspired decor, this eccentric coffee destination has signature drinks with a Spanish flair — lattes with cinnamon, chai lattes with brown sugar. Pair it with a Baja fish or chicken mole taco. Muchacho has gained quite a following, thanks to its zesty, spicy dishes and laid back, hipster environment all day and night.
Tmol Shilshom — Jerusalum, Israel
This kosher café and bookstore has vintage vibes and wall-to-wall books. You’ll feel teleported back in time thanks to the authentic, vintage chairs and architecture. Located in the historic Nachalat Shiva neighborhood, Tmol Shilshom is a quiet, private place where you can grab a cup of coffee and a book and relax amongst authors and poets.
The delicious menu has everything from salads to fish to pasta — and all of them have quotes from Israeli poets. The food is fresh and delicious, using local ingredients and made completely from scratch. The dessert pies are a great way to finish your time at this magical place.
Coffee Commissary — Los Angeles, California
Coffee Commissary is a Los Angeles staple that is known for its premium quality — and pink food truck out in front each morning. The Fairfax location features chalkboard-painted walls and a clean, minimal design. It’s the perfect place to hang out with friends while drinking some of the best coffee you’ve ever tried. The coffee beans come from all over the world, including Ethiopia, Columbia, Guatemala, and Kenya. Complete with expert baristas, this high-class coffee place is perfect for coffee snobs that want something stand-out in their mug.
Yokohama Subtropical Teahouse — Tokyo, Japan
You’ve probably heard of cat cafes and even hedgehog or racoon cafes… But have you heard of one full of reptiles? The Yokohama Subtropical Teahouse is Japan’s first reptile café, allowing you to eat and sip tea amongst a variety of lizards, snakes, and amphibians. There are even some lizards you can pet! The variety of teas in this café is quite refreshing, most of them Chinese. Add some scones to complete the experience.
Onyx Coffee Lab — Bentonville, Arkansas
Onyx Coffee Lab isn’t just a place to find the best coffees from all around the world but also create the best baristas — they have something called the Onyx Academy. They teach the fundamentals of coffee and espresso in their in-depth classes meant for high end cafes and home baristas alike. But even if you don’t want to take a class, you can still enjoy working, reading, and socializing in this professional, luxury coffee shop while you sip some of world’s most desirable roast profiles.
Coffee Addict — London, England
This whimsical, fairy tail-like coffee shop is full of pastel decor, flowers, and fluffy pancakes! Coffee Addict is also known for its wholesome, intricate latte art. Sipping a latte with a cute design while sitting against a flower wall is like a daydream come to life. You have to try the Ruby Rose Latte, a pink drink with rose petals on top! This is the perfect brunch spot for a group of friends, whether you want a delicious, tantalizing dessert or a great spot for selfies.