Finding great coffee in Ithaca, NY isn’t just about caffeine—it’s an experience, especially in a town fuelled by students, nature lovers, and quirky locals. From mornings tucked inside sunlit nooks with a hot cup in hand, to late afternoons people-watching by oversized windows, Ithaca’s coffee shops offer more than a shot of espresso. Each spot on this list brings something unique: the aroma of fresh beans, views of the city’s rolling hills, or that one pastry you didn’t know you craved.
I remember a rainy afternoon spent at a local café, the kind where you watch droplets race down the pane while clutching a cup so perfect you swear it fixed your day. That’s the thing about coffee culture in Ithaca. The right shop gives you a sense that you’ve landed exactly where you need to be. Ready to explore the best Ithaca has to offer? Let’s dive in and find your next favorite cup.
1. Tim Horton’s
If you crave a no-nonsense coffee shop experience, Tim Horton’s on Elmira Road is a reliable choice. The gleaming counters serve up the classic Canadian comfort Ithaca locals crave on brisk mornings. You’ll spot students grabbing coffee or families savoring a quick breakfast between errands.
What makes Tim Horton’s stand out is the straightforward charm—service is brisk, and the coffee is consistently hot. The smell of fresh brews and warm baked goods is the kind of welcome anyone can get behind.
Order a classic Medium Double Double and a baked good—try the perfectly soft muffins or a flaky croissant. The simple menu reflects what Tim Horton’s does best: solid coffee, nostalgic snacks, and an atmosphere that feels easy.
2. 2nd Landing Cafe
(607) 229-2880Call
Tucked inside the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, 2nd Landing Cafe is the local secret for starting or ending a trip on a good note. Despite its airport address, it’s more than a standard stopover. I once waited for a delayed flight here, sipping coffee and watching planes glide over Cayuga Lake—surprisingly soothing.
2nd Landing Cafe stands out for its friendly staff and the sense of calm, even with travelers bustling by. The food feels made for comfort and convenience, keeping quality high.
Order the breakfast sandwich or the bagel with cream cheese. These classics are just what you want before an early flight or after a long arrival, matched with a hot brewed coffee or tea.
3. Cafe Pacific
Cafe Pacific has that laid-back Collegetown vibe, with a steady stream of students refueling between classes. Every window seat here feels like a front-row view of campus life. I stopped in for coffee on a drizzly afternoon, and the sound of quiet chatter paired with steaming mugs set a relaxed pace to my day.
Affordability gives Cafe Pacific its edge. Prices fall comfortably below average, but quality never wavers. The staff greet regulars by name, and newcomers find a seat without fuss.
Order a latte or a drip coffee with one of their fresh bagels. For a quick study break or an easy meet-up, their well-priced menu fits the mood—simple, cozy, and delicious.
4. Cafe Dewitt
Cafe Dewitt offers a little slice of history within Dewitt Mall. Walking in, you feel the blend of nostalgia and community, especially when sunlight streams through the tall windows. During my last visit, the buzz of weekend brunchers and the smell of fresh-ground coffee created a cozy kind of energy I wanted to linger in.
This spot stands out for its use of locally sourced ingredients and inventive daily specials. There’s a sense that each meal is made with care, from the staff’s warm greetings to their attention to detail.
Don’t miss the omelets, packed with market-fresh veggies, or try their signature pancakes. Pair any breakfast with expertly brewed coffee for a true taste of Ithaca’s café culture.
5. Ithaca Coffee Company
Ithaca Coffee Company feels like a crossroads of flavors and community with shelves full of local treats and fresh-roasted beans. Every trip here feels like a mini adventure, whether you’re after a specialty coffee or browsing for thoughtfully chosen local gifts. On one visit, I got lost in the aromas from their roastery and found myself talking beans with the barista for far longer than planned.
The big draw is the house-roasted coffee served in simple, bright mugs. Each batch is bold, smooth, and bursting with fresh flavor. The baristas know exactly how to pull a shot that’s rich without being bitter.
Try their espresso drinks or a pour-over paired with a flaky pastry or homemade muffin. You’ll taste the care that makes this place a local favorite.
6. Gimme Coffee
Gimme Coffee has a reputation that stretches beyond Ithaca, but this roaster’s roots feel unmistakably local. Step inside and you’re surrounded by the sound of espresso being pulled, beans ground to perfection, and regulars chatting with baristas who remember your go-to order. I wandered in one chilly morning and left with hands wrapped around a cup that tasted like a wake-up call done right.
Gimme stands out with its single-origin beans and commitment to fresh roasting. The café’s independent energy brings in students, professionals, and just about anyone needing true coffee—no frills, just flavor.
The espresso macchiato and classic drip coffee highlight what Gimme does best. Grab a seat, savor your cup, and you’ll understand Ithaca’s coffee devotion in a single sip.
7. The Heights Cafe & Grill
The Heights Cafe & Grill blends neighborhood charm with a menu that surprises even regulars. Sip your coffee in one of Ithaca’s coziest spots, where sunlight filters through big windows, perfect for a quiet breakfast. Last time I visited, I watched locals enjoy a slow brunch while staff checked in with genuine smiles.
This café stands out for its attention to detail, balancing comfort classics with thoughtful twists. Whether it’s lunch meetings or relaxed mornings, there’s a table to suit every mood. The staff’s friendly, attentive service keeps guests coming back.
Start with a freshly brewed coffee and pair it with their vegetable omelet or a flaky pastry. Both capture what The Heights does best—classic flavors, locally-minded, and delicious from the first bite to the last sip.
8. Starbucks Coffee
Starbucks Coffee on S Meadow Street offers a blend of familiarity and a little local Ithaca buzz. Walking in, you find the signature aroma and the green aprons, but there’s always a table with a Cornell student editing notes or someone reading by the window. My last visit, I joined the morning line and watched conversation spark over steaming travel mugs—there’s comfort in the routine.
Starbucks stands out for its consistency and customizable drinks. The menu covers everything from bright iced coffees to creamy lattes, so there’s always something for every weather or mood.
Order a classic latte or go for a Caramel Macchiato if you want a sweet pick-me-up. Their fresh bakery items—like soft croissants or muffins—make a great sidekick to your favorite cup.
9. Peet’s Coffee & Tea
(607) 277-5800Call
Peet’s Coffee & Tea on S Meadow Street offers a relaxed alternative for coffee seekers in Ithaca. The atmosphere is always welcoming, whether you need to power through a project or just linger with a book. I once lost track of time here, mesmerized by the deep, toasty scent of their signature blends and the gentle chatter around me.
Peet’s stands out for its strong, robust house coffee and baristas who craft drinks with care. The focus is always on quality, from the roast to the final pour.
If you crave bold flavors, order a Major Dickason’s Blend or enjoy a silky cappuccino. Their pastries—especially the buttery croissants—pair perfectly with any cup.
10. Ithaca Coffee Shop
Ithaca Coffee Shop on E Green Street feels like one of those classic cafés you stumble upon and end up revisiting for years. It’s the perfect downtown pit-stop, steps from busy sidewalks yet always mellow inside. I wandered in on a rainy morning and instantly felt at home, greeted by the aroma of just-brewed coffee and friendly conversation at every table.
This coffee spot stands out for its easygoing atmosphere and well-made drinks. The team behind the counter keeps the atmosphere light, ensuring every cup is just right.
Order a freshly brewed coffee or their espresso blend. Pair your drink with a soft muffin or a classic cookie for the full local Ithaca café experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular coffee shops in Ithaca, NY?
Gimme Coffee, Ithaca Coffee Company, and Cafe Dewitt are local favorites for quality coffee and unique atmosphere. Collegetown Bagels and The Heights Cafe & Grill also draw regular crowds.
Are there coffee shops near Cornell University?
Yes, several shops like Cafe Pacific, Gimme Coffee, and Collegetown Bagels are within walking distance of campus.
Which coffee shops offer vegan or vegetarian options?
Most Ithaca coffee shops, including Ithaca Coffee Company and Cafe Dewitt, provide vegan or vegetarian baked goods, sandwiches, and non-dairy milk alternatives.
Can I find quiet spots to study or work?
Yes. Try Cafe Dewitt, Ithaca Coffee Company, or Peet’s Coffee & Tea for comfortable seating and a quieter ambiance.
Is free Wi-Fi available at Ithaca coffee shops?
Nearly all major coffee shops in Ithaca offer free Wi-Fi—just ask for the password at the counter.
