Top 10 Philly places to get coffee

By Erin Mae Szrankowski
Collegian Editor
April 16, 2008

Are you sick of those run-of-the-mill chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts?  Do you want an independent alternative?  This top 10 list brings together the best coffee places in Philadelphia, ones that will invigorate and please the senses.

10.  Anthony’s Italian Coffee House—Italian pastries and coffee are the specialties of this family-owned business.  Its Italian Market location brings in tourists, but it also a fair share of locals.  Items are a bit on the pricey side, but overall Anthony’s is a showcase of genuine Italian-style coffee and atmosphere.    

9.  Old City Coffee—This Reading Terminal-based coffee place is not your average haven of coffee. Hidden among the other food/drink stands, it is a place worthy to find.  The people who work at Old City are coffee aficionados and will give suggestions on what to order. The downside, however, is that there is no coffeehouse feeling. Old City Coffee is perfect for that on-the-go caffeine fix. 

8.  The Coffee Exchange—Nestled behind the ever-so-busy South Street, this quaint 7th and Bainbridge location is great for spring coffee sipping.  This corner coffee shop is surrounded by blooming trees; you will not feel like you are in Philly.  The Exchange sells pastries and sandwiches to fulfill your food needs as well.  The drinks are reasonably priced, $1.30 for a regular sized coffee. 

7. Gleaner’s Café—This café is situated in the immediate Italian Market area.  It has a punk, do-it-yourself vibe, great for locals or travelers who are looking for a change of pace.  Inside, the walls are covered with random items and flyers talking local business.  Seating is cozy, but limited.  The coffee menu is not expansive, but the coffee drinks themselves are good.

6. Philadelphia Java Company—At 518 S. 4th St., the Philadelphia Java Company is a good place to stop by and have a legitimate cup of coffee.  The baristas seem eager to help if any suggestions are needed.  PJC also has a wide selection of edible goods and for a nice price.  For the studier, the shop has free Wi-Fi and the environment is perfect for focusing. 

5.  Mugshots Coffee House and Juicebar—Fresh ingredients and great coffee is the mainstay of this coffee house. The atmosphere is friendly and revolves around conversation.  Mugshots, with two locations in Fairmount and Manayunk, also sells vegan-friendly foods for all of those non-meat-eaters in your life.     

4.  Walnut Bridge Coffee House—WBCH easily wins the cutest coffee place award.  The servers are friendly and helpful. Inside, the room is colorful, friendly and well-lit.  The shop sells baked-on-premises goods like truffles and tea cakes.  Business is steady, but do not worry about getting a seat. Its 23rd and Walnut location leads you close to college student-ridden University City.

3.  Last Drop—Located at 13th and Pine, Last Drop is ideal for people who want to travel away from touristy Market Street.  The shop provides a smoky atmosphere without the smoke, which makes this place best for a first date.  Beware, prices are on the high side here, but the coffee and other goods are still quality. There is seating both indoors and outdoors, as well as downstairs.  Do not take this corner coffee shop for granted. 

 

2.  The Bean—This South Street coffee place is nothing but homey. A large window faces passers-by on the street, while simple chairs and tables decorate the cozy area. The menu is expansive, creative and fairly priced.  It is great for coffee drinkers who like the sweet and bitter side of coffee. The Bean also boasts personality. Featured monthly are different pieces of art hanging on the walls, all of which are for sale. 

1.   Chapterhouse—This mother of all Philadelphia coffee houses is sure to please the avid coffee drinker.  Chapterhouse is large in size compared to the rest of the top 10.  Although there is a lot of seating, it fills up quickly.  The inside is full of eclectic designs and patterns on the lights and chairs.  Chapterhouse is what you would want your living room to look like—well-kept, spacious and tasteful.  There is free Wi-Fi so it is also good to get some finals-studying done.  Its stimulating environment is the place to be seen in.  Most importantly, the coffee is out-of-this-world and you get a bang for your $1.87. 

szrankowskie1@lasalle.edu