A stroll through Rehoboth Beach’s tree-lined streets offers more than a hint of sea salt in the air. This coastal town hides a brilliant mix of coffee shops, each with a distinct charm and a unique cup to offer. Whether you’re a morning wanderer searching for the perfect spot to sip espresso or someone seeking a cozy nook for quiet reflection, Rehoboth Beach doesn’t disappoint.
I’ve chased the scent of freshly ground beans down boardwalks, spent rainy afternoons perched on window seats, and braved the early-morning chill for a flaky pastry served alongside a perfect latte. From old-school favorites to hidden gems, these coffee shops have stories to tell—and the blends to back them up. If you crave the comfort of a familiar chain or love discovering indie spots that do things their own way, you’re about to find your new favorite haunt.
1. Lori’s Cafe
Lori’s Cafe tucks itself into Baltimore Avenue, a whisper away from the busy summer crowds. The place feels like a secret passed between friends. Inside, sunlight streams onto mismatched tables, and staff greet you with the warmth of someone who’s genuinely happy you stopped by.
The menu bursts with vegetarian and vegan choices, with fresh ingredients stealing the show. Gluten-free folks find easy comfort here, too. My favorite moment: sipping a rich, velvety coffee paired with their signature veggie sandwich—served on freshly baked bread that manages to be both hearty and light.
Try the iced coffee and a breakfast wrap. It’s the kind of spot where the food and the easy vibe linger with you long after you’ve left.
2. Cafe Papillon
Cafe Papillon makes its home in a sunny nook just off the main avenue, feeling more like a Parisian retreat than a typical boardwalk stop. The whir of the espresso machine pairs perfectly with the aroma of crepes sizzling nearby. This spot thrives on simplicity and freshness, both in its brews and its bites.
I’m always drawn to their patio table, watching the world wake up over a hot latte and a delicate spinach-and-cheese crepe. Each dish feels made with real care, balancing comfort and flavor with ease. Everything is vegetarian-friendly, making it ideal for a good start to the day.
Order a cappuccino with any sweet crepe—the lemon sugar is a revelation. Here, breakfast lingers into lunch, and no one seems in a hurry to leave.
3. Sunny Bay Cafe
Sunny Bay Cafe brightens up the Avenue with its cheery décor and breezy atmosphere. The café is known for its vibrant, veggie-packed plates and stellar coffee selection. It’s a spot where solo mornings feel as comfortable as a brunch with friends.
I found a favorite corner here on a chilly morning, pairing a steaming mug of locally roasted coffee with a plate of their avocado toast. The vegan and vegetarian options make everyone feel included, and the staff exude genuine friendliness with every refill.
Go for the oat milk latte alongside one of their hearty breakfast sandwiches. Sunny Bay’s warm service keeps things easy—this is where you linger, not just refuel.
4. Egg
Egg sits a little off the busiest stretch, but the crowd it draws proves it’s worth every extra step. The light-filled dining room gives off that perfect laid-back brunch vibe—no rush, just real good food. The menu is a tapestry of creative takes on morning classics, with plenty for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free guests.
I once ducked in on a rainy Saturday and was happily stranded for hours, sipping bold coffee and watching plates of golden pancakes go by. This is the place for a leisurely start, where coffee pours strong and flavors are anything but shy.
Try the veggie scramble or the gluten-free pancakes with a hot brew on the side. Every detail at Egg feels both thoughtful and unfussy, which is exactly how a great coffee shop should be.
5. The Point Coffee House and Bake Shoppe
+1 302-260-9734
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The Point Coffee House and Bake Shoppe is where early risers and late brunchers both find their fix. House-roasted beans greet you with a rich aroma before you even step inside. Complimentary parking makes lingering over a second cup all too easy, and both indoor and outdoor tables offer a relaxed perch.
I landed at a corner table one breezy morning and watched locals drift in for pastries that looked almost too perfect to eat. The Point’s blend of bold coffee and thoughtfully made bakes create a true neighborhood hub.
Order a classic drip coffee with one of their signature scones or a warm veggie sandwich. You’ll taste care in every bite and sip—this spot sets its own pace.
6. Greenman Juice Bar & Bistro
Greenman Juice Bar & Bistro feels like a sun-filled retreat nestled along Wilmington Avenue. The atmosphere blends coastal calm with a menu built for wellness, offering a smart array of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Even the coffee here tastes clean and bright, complementing everything from freshly blended juices to plant-packed bowls.
I’ve found myself returning just to soak up the peaceful energy and the strong cold brew that quietly wakes you up. Their acai bowls, served with crisp granola and fresh fruit, make a breakfast you’ll crave again.
Pair their house coffee with a veggie-packed wrap or opt for the green smoothie. Every option reflects Greenman’s focus on nourishment and relaxed, beachy good vibes.
7. Cafe A Go Go
Cafe A Go Go brings a quirky, lively spirit to downtown Rehoboth. This is the spot where good coffee meets playful décor and unpretentious food. The menu doubles down on comfort, and there’s always a soundtrack of espresso machine chatter and friendly regulars trading stories.
One morning, I snagged a window seat with a hot pour-over and a flaky breakfast pastry, watching Rehoboth wake up. The sense of community here is real; it’s part tiny diner, part coffee shop, all heart.
Start with a rich espresso and their signature breakfast burrito or one of the simple bagels. Cafe A Go Go wins by being totally itself—no fuss, just well-made food and memorable coffee.
8. Rise Up Coffee
Rise Up Coffee channels a laid-back, surf-inspired vibe where good coffee and easygoing energy always seem to collide. The space is bright, airy, and full of the promise of a quality brew. Each cup tastes like it was prepared by someone who takes their coffee craft seriously.
I still remember wandering in after a beach walk, sandy and sun-happy, and being welcomed with a smile and the telltale aroma of fresh-ground beans. The menu covers the basics but gets creative with seasonal lattes and cold brew, all without losing that local charm.
Order a nitro cold brew and pair it with one of their breakfast sandwiches. Rise Up delivers a boost of energy, good vibes, and solid Rehoboth coffee culture with every sip.
9. Zava Cafe
Zava Cafe radiates a clean, modern style right from its Wilmington Avenue storefront. Locals love it for a breakfast menu that balances comfort with a healthy spin. Sunlight pours in, energizing the space as much as the coffee does.
I stopped in for a midday pick-me-up and was drawn to both the sleek, inviting setup and the array of wholesome, house-made options. The menu offers something for everyone, from classic breakfast plates to inventive smoothie bowls. It’s hard to walk out with anything less than a satisfied smile.
The honey-lavender latte is a quiet standout—pair it with a veggie-packed breakfast wrap. Zava’s easy energy and fresh flavors make it a solid bet when you want to feel both nourished and recharged.
10. The Coffee Mill
The Coffee Mill is a true Rehoboth original, tucked into a charming spot in Rehoboth Mews. This shop blends the comfort of a neighborhood staple with a hint of old-world café magic. Regulars cherish the quiet patio for a morning read or an afternoon catch-up over a strong brew.
I’ve happily lost hours here, nursing a French press and savoring the calm buzz. The staff know their beans and the shelves are stacked with options you’ll want to bring home.
Go for the Ethiopian single origin paired with a fresh-baked muffin. The Coffee Mill is for those who love the ritual of coffee as much as the drink itself—simple, satisfying, and always inviting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best coffee shops in Rehoboth Beach?
Favorites include The Coffee Mill, Lori’s Cafe, Rise Up Coffee, The Point Coffee House, and Cafe Papillon. Each has a signature vibe and something special brewing.
Are there vegan or vegetarian-friendly cafes in Rehoboth Beach?
Absolutely. Sunny Bay Cafe, Greenman Juice Bar & Bistro, Egg, and Lori’s Cafe all offer vegetarian and vegan options, making plant-based choices easy and delicious.
Where can I find gluten-free options at Rehoboth coffee shops?
Egg, Lori’s Cafe, and Greenman Juice Bar & Bistro serve several gluten-free menu items, from pastries to full breakfasts.
Which coffee shop is best for working or studying?
Try The Point Coffee House and The Coffee Mill—both offer WiFi and relaxed settings perfect for laptops and notebooks.
Are there any coffee shops with outdoor seating?
Yes. Look to The Coffee Mill, Rise Up Coffee, and Cafe Papillon for breezy patios and sidewalk tables during warmer months.