Top Coffee Shops in Tempe: The Best Local Cafes for Coffee Lovers
Tempe boasts an impressive array of exceptional coffee shops, offering high-quality brews and unique experiences. Step away from chain stores like Starbucks and discover these standout local cafes that highlight the city's vibrant coffee culture.
Cartel Coffee Lab
225 W. University Dr., #101 | (480) 621-6381
Cartel Coffee Lab is Tempe's coffee standout, with its original location here expanding to multiple sites including Phoenix Sky Harbor, Tucson, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Palm Springs, and Austin, Texas. Known for top-tier espresso and innovative flavors, Cartel sources beans responsibly from El Salvador, Colombia, and Rwanda. The streamlined menu belies the baristas' expertise in crafting custom drinks. For home enjoyment, subscribe to their delivery service.
Press Coffee
601 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., #103 | (480) 794-1107
1221 E. Apache Blvd. | (480) 566-5380
With ten years and eight Valley locations, Press Coffee is a Phoenix-area staple. Their commitment to premium sourcing, equipment, and skilled teams has earned a devoted following. They support Arizona charities and global coffee farmers.
Infusion Coffee & Tea Crafters
1300 E. 8th St., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 968-2533
Tucked near Four Peaks Brewing Company and close to ASU Tempe Campus, Infusion rewards discovery with world-class coffee and tea. Owner Patrick O’Malley, a diploma holder from the Specialty Coffee Association of Europe, founded the International Barista & Coffee Academy in 2012. Enjoy classics or specialties like The Bee’s Knees (espresso, lemon, honey) or SpoO’J (juice-espresso blend). Their extensive tea selection and classes, such as Latte Art Workshops and Public Cupping, add educational value.
Romancing the Bean
80 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., #120 | (480) 921-4077
Relocated from Scottsdale to Tempe's Hayden Ferry Lakeside, this family-owned spot sources beans from premier global regions. Specializing in perfected hot, iced, and blended espresso drinks, try the Iced Carmello for caramel-espresso balance. Pair with pastries or lunch; note they're closed weekends.
King Coffee
1020 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 307-6557
Across from ASU, this locally owned, hipster-friendly cafe has expanded for ample seating. Favorites include Iced Chai, Pour Over, and Macchiato, paired with pastries, bagels, or sandwiches.
The Crepe Bar
7520 S. Rural Rd., Tempe, AZ 85283 | (480) 247-8012
Renowned for crepes, The Crepe Bar excels in coffee using Tucson’s Presta beans. Photogenic lattes feature honey, vanilla, caramel-sea salt, or dark chocolate mocha. Unique: Molasses Spiced Latte with espresso, molasses, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and Arizona pecans.
SNAKES & LATTES
20 W. 6th St., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 361-6644
This board-game haven offers coffee cocktails like Espresso Martini (Tito’s Vodka, Kahlua, simple syrup, espresso, heavy cream) or Revolver (Bacardi, pineapple, lime, orgeat, cold brew), plus non-alcoholic options.
Cafetal Coffee
777 S. College Ave., #101, Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 557-5245
Farm-to-cup excellence from their family farm in Colombia. Near ASU, everything from coffee to small plates is house-made by expert baristas, earning rave reviews for service.
Steve’s Espresso
1801 E. Baseline Rd., #102, Tempe, AZ 85283 | (480) 777-5373
A neighborhood favorite for scratch-made chai, pastries (like heavy cream scones), breakfast, lunch, coffee, and cocktails in a welcoming atmosphere.
Daily Dose Kitchen & Bar
96 S Rockford Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 590-6937
Newer on the scene with vibrant decor, it serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Signature waffles rotate seasonally; coffee highlights include drip, Filthy Chai, and spiked options like The Classic or Cinnamon Chata.
Gold Bar Espresso
3141 S. McClintock Dr., Tempe, AZ 85282 | (480) 839-3082
Cozy spot with an extensive menu of coffees, espressos, and custom mochas, plus breakfast treats.
Jasmine Jo & Rowan Tree
107 E Baseline Rd Suite A4, Tempe, AZ 85283 | (480) 686-8965
This flower shop-coffee hybrid delights with fresh blooms and espresso aromas. Try Dirty Daisy (vanilla latte mocha) or Iced Chai; located at Mill Ave and Baseline Rd.
Palette Collective
7720 S Priest Dr, Tempe, AZ 85284 | (602) 465-4666
A customizable studio space with stellar coffee, tea, non-dairy options, matcha, and Instagram-worthy avocado toast. Ideal for work or services like hair styling.
More Great Coffee Shops in Tempe:
- Bikini Beans Coffee 1420 N. Scottsdale Rd., Tempe, AZ 85281
- The Human Bean 1765 E. University Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (602) 359-0852
- The Human Bean 1602 N. Scottsdale Rd., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 550-7303
- The Fix Drive Thru Coffee 1445 W. Auto Dr., Tempe, AZ 85284 | (602) 402-5608
- Regroup Coffee + Bicycles 1205 N. Scottsdale Rd., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 648-8309
- As Brew Cafe 671 E. Apache Blvd., Ste. 123, Tempe, AZ 85281 | (620) 767-5460
- Xtreme Bean Coffee Co. 1707 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, AZ 85282 | (480) 820-0333
- 1865 Coffee 40 E University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 967-8649 *TEMPORARILY CLOSED
- Some favorite boba shops also serve coffee drinks.
Where will you get your next cup? Tag @tempetourism #OurTempe with your photos!
