The search for a great cup of coffee in Buffalo, NY is far from dull. Buffalo’s coffee scene surprises you at every turn, with a blend of cozy corners, historic brick-walled cafes, and baristas who take their craft seriously. I still remember my first winter visit—cold hands wrapped around a toasty mug as snow drifted outside, the city’s energy bubbling up with every sip. In Buffalo, a coffee shop is rarely just a place for caffeine: it’s a hub for artists, students, readers, and friends who know how to slow down and enjoy a good brew.
Buffalo’s coffee shops have personality, history, and creativity. Whether you crave a straightforward pour-over, a bold espresso, or something local and inventive, this city serves up options that go beyond your typical chain. I’ve combed through hidden spots and celebrated storefronts to help you skip the mediocre and savor the best. Ready to find your favorite cup? The following lineup shows where Buffalo coffee shines brightest.
Where to find the best coffee shops in Buffalo, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best coffee shops in Buffalo, NY:
- Public Espresso + Coffee
- SPoT Coffee
- Five Points Bakery
- Spot Coffee
- SPoT
- Remedy House
- Tim Hortons
- Wonder Coffeehouse
- Caffe Aroma
- Overwinter Coffee
1. Public Espresso + Coffee
Public Espresso + Coffee is a favorite among downtown regulars. This café blends modern style with the warmth of a neighborhood spot, all set inside Hotel @ The Lafayette. I once lost a rainy afternoon here, watching baristas work with care and style behind the counter.
Their pour-overs showcase beans roasted in-house, rich and balanced with surprising notes. Even their drip coffee impresses. Pair it with their house-made toast or a savory breakfast sandwich—both local favorites for a reason.
Public stands out for its attention to detail and friendly staff. If you want to see Buffalo’s craft coffee spirit in action, this is the perfect place to start your day.
2. SPoT Coffee
SPoT Coffee on Elmwood Ave is an anchor in Buffalo’s café culture. This spacious location invites you to linger, whether you’re catching up with friends or lost in a book by the window. It’s the first place I tried a locally roasted espresso—smooth, never bitter, just bold enough to keep your morning moving.
SPoT’s menu covers all the coffee shop essentials, but their cappuccinos are a standout. Pair yours with a baked-goods classic, like their flaky croissants or a simply toasted bagel. The staff make every visit welcoming, with just enough bustling city energy to keep it interesting.
If you want a coffee spot that feels like Buffalo itself—open, social, and always buzzing—this is where to go.
3. Five Points Bakery
Five Points Bakery charms from the moment you spot its brick façade and historic, residential setting. This bakery-café is famous for using local, wholesome ingredients, turning simple toast into art. I still remember my first morning here—watching sunlight pour in, the smell of fresh bread filling the warm space.
The standout pick is their toast flight. Try hearty slices with local honey and creamy butter, or go savory with aged cheese or avocado. Each bite tells you this place values community and craft.
Coffee lovers will appreciate their small-batch brews, made to complement the baked goods. If you want a taste of Buffalo’s homemade side, Five Points should top your list.
4. Spot Coffee
Spot Coffee at Fountain Plaza sits right at the heart of downtown life. The café’s bright, open space draws a steady crowd of students, professionals, and neighbors. I once ducked in on a snowy afternoon and found it bustling but never rushed, a place where time slows down just enough for a fresh brew.
Spot’s lattes have a way of winning over both die-hard coffee fans and newcomers. Try theirs paired with a warm scone or one of their breakfast wraps—homemade, substantial, and perfect for fueling your day.
The menu is broad, making it easy to find something satisfying, and the baristas are known for getting orders just right. For a classic Buffalo coffee shop experience, Spot delivers every time.
5. SPoT
SPoT on Delaware Ave offers a relaxed perch right in the heart of Buffalo’s business core. This location blends comfort with convenience, making it a favorite among locals and downtown professionals. I’ve popped in for a pick-me-up before meetings and always found a calm corner to recharge.
Their Americanos and iced coffees are both solid choices. If you’re hungry, the breakfast bagels come out warm and generous with toppings, just right for a busy morning. There’s plenty of seating if you want to linger and soak in the city from behind a steamy cup.
SPoT’s staff keep the atmosphere friendly and upbeat, so every visit feels like a welcome pause in the day.
6. Remedy House
Remedy House sits on a sunny corner in the Five Points neighborhood, drawing locals with its blend of charm and style. The space feels both vintage and fresh—perfect for slow mornings or impromptu meetings. My last visit began with a cheerful hello and ended with me lingering over coffee long after my pastry disappeared.
The cortado here is a favorite—smooth, balanced, and crafted with care. Pair it with one of their fresh, flaky pastries or a slice of toast topped with local jam. Both are reminders that simple food can feel special in the right setting.
If you’re craving an atmosphere that’s energetic but never rushed, Remedy House is the kind of neighborhood café you’ll want to revisit.
7. Tim Hortons
Tim Hortons at HarborCenter is a Buffalo staple for locals and visitors alike. There’s a comfort to this spot—the hum of hockey fans, the friendly staff, and coffee always fresh and hot. On cold mornings, I’ve found their classic blend hits the spot every time.
The original blend coffee is what Tim Hortons does best—smooth, reliable, never overpowering. Pair it with a box of Timbits® for a shareable treat, or grab a breakfast sandwich if you need fuel for the day ahead.
Whether you’re in for a quick cup or just want to settle into a familiar booth, Tim Hortons offers the kind of consistency that keeps people coming back.
8. Wonder Coffeehouse
Wonder Coffeehouse is a gem tucked in Buffalo’s city center, known as the place to try authentic Liege waffles. The industrial, revitalized setting adds a dose of character you won’t find anywhere else around town. I still remember my first visit—drinking a robust latte and watching waffles sizzle on the griddle, the air thick with sweet dough.
The main event is the Liege waffle: caramelized, chewy, and golden, topped with everything from simple powdered sugar to fresh fruit. For drinks, their lattes and cold brews are expertly crafted, making them the perfect partners for those memorable waffles.
Wonder Coffeehouse stands out for its creativity and fun, never losing sight of quality. It’s a must for anyone craving something a little different with their coffee.
9. Caffe Aroma
+1 716-884-4522
Caffe Aroma, right on Elmwood Ave, is as local as it gets. This café has a casual, lived-in vibe—where late-night conversations and early morning routines blend together. I first stumbled in on a rainy evening, only intending to stay a few minutes, but ended up relaxing with coffee and people-watching until well after dark.
The cappuccino is a classic here, rich and velvety. Add a homemade muffin or a fresh panini, both made in-house, and you’ll understand why regulars keep coming back. Their outdoor seating is a treat during Buffalo’s warmer months, making it ideal for soaking up sun and street life.
Caffe Aroma is charming without trying too hard. It’s the kind of place where every guest feels like a local.
10. Overwinter Coffee
Overwinter Coffee sits downtown with a sleek, modern aesthetic that hints at the care put into every cup. The coffee here is all about single-origin beans and clarity of flavor. I remember being surprised by a pour-over with hints of citrus and berries, each sip as vivid as its aroma.
This café specializes in unique roasts, perfect for those curious about coffee that packs a punch beyond the usual. Try their espresso for something bold, or enjoy a carefully crafted iced coffee when you want to cool down.
For anyone serious about the coffee experience—or just looking to taste something new—Overwinter is a refreshing find on Buffalo’s coffee map.
More Things to Try in Buffalo, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best locally-owned coffee shops in Buffalo, NY?
Buffalo has outstanding local spots such as Public Espresso + Coffee, Five Points Bakery, Overwinter Coffee, and Remedy House. These are known for their welcoming atmosphere, excellent coffee, and unique menus.
Which coffee shops in Buffalo have vegan or vegetarian-friendly options?
Many Buffalo cafés, including Five Points Bakery, Public Espresso + Coffee, and SPoT Coffee, offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly food choices like plant-based milk, fresh breads, and wholesome toasts.
Are there any coffee shops with outdoor seating in Buffalo?
Yes, several. SPoT Coffee, Caffe Aroma, and Remedy House all feature outdoor seating—perfect for warm days when you want some fresh air with your coffee.
Where can I find late-night coffee in Buffalo?
SPoT Coffee on Elmwood and Caffe Aroma both stay open late, making them go-to spots for evening study sessions, creative work, or relaxed hangouts.
Do Buffalo coffee shops offer local baked goods or breakfast items?
Absolutely. Local cafés like Five Points Bakery, Wonder Coffeehouse, and Cafe 59 are known for fresh, house-made pastries, breads, and breakfast sandwiches that highlight Buffalo’s creative, community-driven style.
