There’s no better way to start (or end) each day than with the perfect cup of joe. Whether it’s the magical elixir to kickstart a meeting or initiate good conversation, there are plenty of places in the city to savor quality coffee, tea, and everything in between. While there are several familiar coffee shop chains you can find anywhere, we like something with more local flavor. It’s not just the quality of the coffee, we think, but the type of experience you’re looking for that really makes up this list of where to find the perfect cup of coffee in Arlington.
DOWNTOWN
Inclusion Coffee is dedicated to providing a welcoming atmosphere to everyone… so much so they put it in the name. They’re also designed for giving guests lots of room to connect with others with multiple seating options on two levels. While the coffee menu is a favorite, with their classic staples along with multiple seasonal and daily specials from the baristas, don’t forget to come a little hungry to order one of their pastries or sweets. We love that their selection of merch includes Caylan Candles, a local company dedicated to help end human trafficking.
As owner Chris says, White Rhino uses coffee to connect with people. “We aren’t in the coffee business; we’re in the people business.” While that may be true, their staff is highly trained in the art of flavor; both their roasts and menu are also wins. You know when you’ve arrived at White Rhino, with its Tiffany blue logo and (you guessed it) white rhino, then once you’re inside you feel more like you’re at home than in a coffee shop. Arlington isn’t the first or the last spot in DFW for White Rhino Coffee, but the experience at each location makes you feel like you’re the most special person in the room.
Want a REALLY fresh cup of coffee? Salter Bros. Coffee Roasters wins by roasting their own beans in Downtown Arlington’s Urban Union, then serving them up for guests in a cute little coffee shop adjacent to the roastery. A true passion project turned-second-career for the Salter family, this is one coffee destination really dedicated to coffee. Even if you don’t get a chance to travel Downtown, you can also find Salter Bros. Coffee in the Arlington Entertainment District at Texas Live! and Live! at Loews.
Urban Alchemy – CURRENTLY CLOSED AS A COFFEE SHOP. NOW AVAILABLE TO RENT AS A PRIVATE EVENTS VENUE.
One quick look at the menu and it’s easy to see why Urban Alchemy is often on the top of many Arlingtonites list for coffee, tea and much more. With an impressive menu of beans and styles, you can also order one of the best, housemade light bites in town to enjoy in “Arlington’s second living room,” on their patio, or to take home (curbside pick-up available). Ready to wind down with a glass of wine and charcuterie instead? You’ll find some of the best varietal picks from around the world, knowledgeable serves to help you discover your new pour. Urban Alchemy is also a great spot for hosting community gatherings, meetings and private events!
ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
River Market (Inside Live! at Loews Hotel)
Many visitors to Arlington stick close to the Entertainment District while they’re in town, especially if they’re staying at the new Loews Hotel. There’s so much all in one spot, including a stellar cup of joe from Salter Bros. Coffee. The River Market is also a one-stop shop for salads, ice cream, cookies, already-made cocktails, and some of the best souvenirs from makers around DFW. If you forgot your cord or need a battery pack for your phone, the Market has that, too.
SOUTH
Every good coffee shop also needs a good motto. At Savor Coffee, they remind guests to “Seize the day. SAVOR this moment.” Our favorite time to savor Savor is actually in the afternoon, mostly because they have some of the most extraordinary sandwiches in town. If you want to take a trip around the world, you can also do it here with multiple handcrafted drink options including NOLA cold brew, Vietnamese Iced Coffee, London Fog, Horchata, and Thai Tea.
You might be ready to move into Grounds and Gold when you first walk through the door. The brand-new interiors are beautiful and everything is delicious with fresh baked goods from Gold Ribbon Confections (its own award-winning bakery) including several gluten free options. Their motto “Baked and Brewed with a Heart of Gold” reflects their mission, which includes donating to local charities, offering a meeting/event space for community organizations, and being a loving legacy to the owners’ biggest hero, Micah, who earned his wings after a battle with cancer.
If you think you love and know coffee, it’s time to take your taste buds (and your coffee skills) to the top level at the Texas Coffee Club. Learn how to make coffee like a professional from professionals, including how to brew it, make it, and everything in between. The Texas Coffee Club experience is like a sommelier class for coffee! Make sure to sign up for classes as soon as they’re announced because they fill up quickly and well in advance.
Editor’s Note: Urban Alchemy and Sociability are both affiliated with Three Monkeys Co. Three Monkeys is proud of its role as a leader in creating the blossoming coffee culture in Arlington, and in Downtown in particular. We asked Autumn not to let our role influence her review.
