When you think about great coffee, Providence, Rhode Island might not be one of the first places that come to mind. Mexico, perhaps, with its world-class coffee-growing areas of Veracruz and Chiapas. Or Sydney, Australia, where third-wave coffee really took off. Even Seattle, Washington birthplace of Starbucks. But Providence? This admittedly picturesque little city on the East Coast famous more for its Revolutionary War history than its adherence to hipster trends.
But in overlooking Providence as a destination for coffee lovers you would be doing this corner of Rhode Island a huge disservice, and potentially missing out on one of the best spots for coffee in the North East US.
In the last few years, Providence has overtaken many of the bigger, more famous East Coast names as a foodie hub, and more recently it has taken its place as one of the best cities for coffee culture in the northeast. So if you are looking at cruises from the port of NYC and are thinking about indulging your inner coffee lover with a few extra days vacation, take a look below at some of the highlights of the Creative Capital and pack your bags for coffee paradise!
The Coffee Exchange
One of the pioneers of Providence’s booming coffee culture, the Coffee Exchange had turned to micro roasting and origin-focus years before it was trendy elsewhere. It’s an atmospheric space, all dark wood and low lighting, with a wonderfully casual, functional vibe that puts the focus squarely on the coffee. With a huge variety of blends, single-origin beans, and roast styles, it offers something for everyone alongside a wonderfully warm, welcoming environment.
The Coffee Exchange is located at 207 Wickenden Street.
Bolt Coffee at the Dean Hotel
In place of the traditional reception desk and concierge, the Dean Hotel has a coffee shop! This quirky, alternative decision has created a fantastic atmosphere, with the lobby always abuzz with conversation as well as full of the delicious aromas of freshly-brewed coffee. The Bolt Coffee Company serves up exciting blends from roasters across the US, as well as batch brews, classic espresso, and Clever Dripper offerings.
Bolt Coffee Company at The Dean Hotel is located at 122 Fountain Street.
New Harvest Coffee and Spirits
New Harvest led the way in Providence’s coffee revolution and without them, it would not be the paradise for coffee lovers it is today. The organizers of the grassroots MANE Coffee Conference, they also make a mean brew, and it is worth traveling to Providence for their Whisper Espresso alone!
New Harvest Coffee and Spirits is located at 130 Westminster Street.