McLain’s Market
Just a short walk from the University of Kansas campus, McLain’s Market is a stunning coffee shop that offers a vibrant and bohemian atmosphere. With its earthy tones, chic chairs, ample tabletops, and comfy couches, this place is perfect for productivity and relaxation. Whether you’re meeting with colleagues, going on a coffee date, studying alone, or hosting a private event, McLain’s Market has everything you need. And let’s not forget about their delicious confections and carefully crafted coffee beverages.
Decade
For those who appreciate Instagram-worthy aesthetics, Decade is the place to be. Located in East Lawrence’s burgeoning Warehouse Arts District, this visually pleasing retreat features crafty wooden furnishings, minimalistic walls, and plenty of natural sunlight. In addition to their pour-over coffee, precision espresso, and loose leaf teas, Decade also serves craft beer, wine, light fare, and full meals.
1900 Barker
Housed in a beautifully renovated 70s-era laundromat near The University of Kansas, 1900 Barker is an adorable coffee shop founded by two young brothers in 2015. This warm and cozy destination has become a favorite among coffee connoisseurs and even made it to the Semifinalist List for Outstanding Baker in the James Beard Awards. Don’t forget to pair your coffee with one of their scrumptious seasonal pastries.
Uplift Coffee
If you’re looking for a homey and peaceful setting, Uplift Coffee is the place to be. Located near the Kansas River and just off I-70, this coffee shop offers cozy seating arrangements, amenities for a productive day, and a tranquil outdoor patio surrounded by lush foliage and the calming sounds of a waterfall. In addition to their picturesque decor, Uplift Coffee serves delicious coffee beverages, baked goods, breakfast burritos, quiche, paninis, and more.
La Prima Tazza
La Prima Tazza is a beloved local gem that has been serving tasty coffee for over 30 years. They offer a wide range of caffeinated favorites, including unique cold-filtered specialties like the chocolatey Iced Cocoa Cloud and the exotic spice-infused Iced Moroccan. Despite its small size, La Prima Tazza makes up for it with friendly service, cute potted plants, beautiful artwork, elegant ceiling tiles, and a windowfront view of downtown’s bustling streets.
Z’s Divine Espresso
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cup of coffee with loved ones, get lost in a good book, or work in a cozy environment, Z’s Divine Espresso has got you covered. Their location in the south is equipped with a convenient drive-thru, making it a popular spot for business travelers and busy individuals. With its inviting ambiance and friendly atmosphere, Z’s Divine Espresso is the perfect neighborhood gathering place.
The Java Break
Tucked away in a charming white brick building amidst downtown’s historic storefronts, The Java Break offers a unique and nostalgic experience. Step through their front door and you’ll discover a variety of rooms with their own quirky vibes, including a free speech den filled with creative expressions. This coffee shop is well-known for its strong and flavorful coffee, perfect for late-night study sessions. And don’t forget to try their cereal bar, where you can mix and match cereals with an assortment of toppings.
J&S Coffee
Located in a humble strip mall, J&S Coffee is a relaxed haven ideal for work or leisure. With its comfortable seating, speedy WiFi, and gourmet in-house roasted coffee, this coffee shop is a popular spot for getting things done or treating yourself to a delicious beverage. The staff at J&S Coffee also offers a tantalizing selection of signature coffee drinks and small bites.
The Sconelady’s Coffee Shop
For coffee lovers who truly appreciate the art of java, The Sconelady’s Coffee Shop is a must-visit. They have been passionately roasting the world’s finest coffee beans on-site for over a decade. With its cozy lounge area, art-filled walls, and the aroma of freshly roasted coffee, this coffee shop provides a delightful experience for all the senses.
Milton’s Cafe
Milton’s Cafe, located in downtown Lawrence, offers more than just great coffee. With its restaurant vibe and the best brunch patio in town, this cafe is the perfect place to enjoy mimosas, cocktails, beers, carefully crafted espresso drinks, and mouthwatering dishes like their famous French toast.
Scooter’s Coffee
Scooter’s Coffee is a drive-thru franchise that has been known for serving world-class coffee for over 20 years. Their menu features a wide range of specialty espresso beverages, single-origin coffee, fruit smoothies, Red Bull Infusions, Cold Brew, baked-from-scratch pastries, and savory breakfast options. Don’t miss out on their signature drink, the Caramelicious, a rich and velvety caramel delight.
If you enjoyed this guide to the best coffee shops in Lawrence, be sure to check out our list of the Top 10 Coffee Shops in Topeka!
I do not claim to own any of the images used in this article, unless otherwise noted. They are sourced from each business’s Facebook page.
