Navigating Burlington, VT in search of the perfect cup of coffee has become something of a personal tradition. The city’s cozy streets and lakeside charm seem custom-made for café hopping, whether you’re dodging snowflakes or soaking up the afternoon sun. On my recent stroll, I realized Burlington isn’t just a hub for coffee—it’s a landscape dotted with spots where every detail matters, from the first greeting to that last satisfying sip.
Finding the best coffee shop isn’t just about caffeine. It’s about the vibe, the pastries, the possibilities for an impromptu meeting or a few peaceful moments with a book. This city has options for every preference, whether you crave single origin pour-overs or a classic bagel with your morning brew. If you’re curious which places live up to the local buzz, keep reading—there’s a standout place for every mood and every palate.
1. August First
Step inside August First, and you’re met with warmth and the aroma of fresh bread. Housed in a light-filled converted garage, this café feels as welcoming as your favorite old sweater. It’s the kind of spot where strangers strike up conversations over their morning coffee.
August First stands out for its scratch-made food and easygoing Vermont vibe. Every pastry, muffin, and sandwich is assembled by hand, using thoughtful local ingredients. The staff is always quick with a smile, making lingering over a second cup feel like an easy decision.
If you’re stopping in, try the maple biscuit with your locally roasted coffee. Sweet, crumbly, and unmistakably Vermont, it pairs perfectly with their smooth drip brew. It’s a Burlington classic that redefines comfort food.
2. Muddy Waters
+1 802-658-0466
Muddy Waters is a coffee shop with atmosphere for days. Step through the door, and you’re surrounded by woodwork, dim lighting, and quirky art—making it part cozy retreat, part urban hideout. More than once, I’ve found myself losing track of time here, the hum of conversation mixing with the clatter of mugs behind the bar.
What sets Muddy Waters apart is its character. The staff craft every drink with care, and regulars know there’s a story behind every corner. It’s the perfect place for writers, readers, or anyone craving a quiet recharge.
Order a steaming chai latte or their signature house blend coffee. Both highlight the shop’s focus on comfort and creativity, making every visit something memorable.
3. The Skinny Pancake Burlington
The Skinny Pancake Burlington is where you go when your morning coffee needs a little extra excitement. Perched on the Lake Champlain waterfront, the space buzzes with casual energy and the scent of batter crisping on the griddle. It’s easy to while away a cozy hour here, whether solo with a latte or gathered with friends over brunch.
The crepes are the reason people keep coming back. From sweet to savory, everything is made to order, packed with local flavors. The staff are quick with recommendations, and there’s always something new to try thanks to their creative menu.
If you want a classic experience, order the Choco Monkey crepe with a cup of house coffee. It’s indulgent without being too heavy, and perfectly channels that Burlington spirit—local, inventive, and always relaxed.
4. Pingala Cafe & Eatery
Pingala Cafe & Eatery is tucked beside the river, and stepping inside feels like stumbling into a hidden oasis. Sunshine pours through big windows, and there’s a calm, inviting atmosphere that draws you to linger, laptop or book in hand. I’ve found it the perfect place to settle in with a cappuccino and clear my head.
Everything here is plant-based and prepared with creativity. Whether you follow a vegan diet or just appreciate good food, Pingala delivers bold flavor and fresh ingredients in every dish. The staff seem as enthusiastic about their menu as their customers, which always adds to the experience.
For a classic taste of Pingala, pair a smooth oat milk latte with their daily-made baked goods. The combination showcases their dedication to comfort and sustainability—and you’ll leave feeling nourished in every way.
5. Burlington Bay Market & Cafe
Burlington Bay Market & Cafe sits right by the waterfront, a spot where coffee comes with sweeping lake views. I’ve stopped by early on foggy mornings, coffee in hand, watching sailboats drift in and out of sight. The cozy, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a favorite for both locals and wanderers.
This cafe shines thanks to its mix of casual comfort and unbeatable scenery. The menu covers breakfast and lunch, and there’s always a friendly face at the counter ready with a suggestion. It’s a great place to grab a bite before a stroll along the water.
Order the classic breakfast sandwich with a hot coffee. Simple, satisfying, and perfectly suited for an easy start to your day or a midday refuel.
6. Burlington Bagel Bakery
Burlington Bagel Bakery is one of those places where simple pleasures steal the show. Sitting at a window seat here, I’ve watched Church Street wake up while enjoying a fresh bagel and a cup of coffee. There’s an easy, no-fuss vibe that keeps people coming back day after day.
What sets this spot apart is the obvious pride in their bagels—boiled and baked daily for that classic chewy bite. The aroma alone is enough to pull you in off the street. Service is quick, and the selection ranges from classic to inventive.
Pair a sesame bagel with scallion cream cheese and a cup of their drip coffee. It’s the kind of breakfast combo that captures the heart of Burlington: comforting, uncomplicated, and always fresh.
7. New Moon
New Moon offers a bright, welcoming corner just off the busy path. The airy space fills with sunlight even on gray days, creating a peaceful pocket for coffee or lunch. I’ve often stopped in for a midday pick-me-up and found myself staying longer than planned, drawn in by the easy pace and inviting atmosphere.
New Moon is known for creative, health-focused fare and local connections. Everything from the menu to the decor speaks of Vermont’s broader community spirit. There are plenty of options for every diet, making this a dependable stop for groups with mixed preferences.
Try a house-made baked good and a locally roasted coffee. The pairing captures New Moon’s balance of comfort and healthy, modern flavor.
8. Onyx Tonics Specialty Coffee
Onyx Tonics Specialty Coffee is where I go when I want to treat coffee as an art form. The minimalist, airy space lets the coffee speak for itself, and the staff seem just as excited to talk tasting notes as they are to pull a perfect espresso shot. It’s a place that rewards curiosity and attention to detail.
What makes Onyx Tonics unique is its dedication to craft and ever-changing single origin offerings. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a true enthusiast, you’ll find something to savor. The baristas are always up for a recommendation, tailoring each cup to your preferences.
Order a seasonal pour-over or one of their espresso specialties. Every cup is a lesson in flavor, and it’s clear this place takes coffee seriously.
9. Barrio Bakery
Barrio Bakery is the sort of spot you stumble upon and immediately wish you’d found sooner. Each visit, I’m drawn to the display case brimming with fresh breads and pastries, a testament to careful, hands-on baking. The neighborhood buzz inside is as much of an ingredient as the flour and yeast.
Barrio stands out for its balance of cozy cafe energy and bakery precision. Everything is baked daily, so you get that just-out-of-the-oven aroma as a backdrop to your coffee break. The friendly staff know regulars by name and are generous with suggestions.
If you’re deciding what to order, grab a morning bun or almond croissant with a strong cup of coffee. It’s an unbeatable combination for starting any Burlington morning right.
10. Queen City Cafe
Queen City Cafe feels like a hidden gem, just a bit off the main routes. I’ve ducked in here on rainy afternoons and found it instantly calming, filled with the scent of fresh coffee and toasted bread. The space is open and airy, lined with plants and gentle conversation, perfect for slowing down for a while.
What sets Queen City Cafe apart is its creative, globally inspired menu and genuine community spirit. Dishes are thoughtfully made, offering more than just the usual cafe fare. It feels both familiar and refreshingly original at the same time.
Try the house-baked bread with avocado or a breakfast bowl alongside your coffee. Each bite showcases their passion for quality and honest comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best coffee shops for studying or working in Burlington, VT?
Onyx Tonics, New Moon, and August First offer free Wi-Fi, plenty of seating, and a welcoming vibe for focus or remote work. Pingala Cafe is also great if you want a plant-based menu alongside your laptop.
Are there any coffee shops with lake views in Burlington?
Yes, Burlington Bay Market & Cafe and The Skinny Pancake both provide stunning vistas of Lake Champlain, perfect for sipping coffee with a side of scenery.
Which shops offer vegan or gluten-free options?
Pingala Cafe, New Moon, and August First are known for strong selections of vegan and gluten-free choices, making them ideal for a variety of dietary needs.
Where can I find late-night coffee in Burlington?
Radio Bean keeps its doors open late, making it a good stop for an evening caffeine fix or some live entertainment with your brew.
Do any Burlington coffee shops roast their own beans?
Onyx Tonics and Barrio Bakery feature single-origin and locally roasted beans, ensuring fresh and unique flavor profiles in every cup.