Top 10 Coffee Shops 2021

We had an unusual travel year, where we traveled to the same places multiple times, and didn't venture on any other trips, except for our baby moon to California. As such, we only hit about 30 coffee shops this year--down from probably around 75 last year! That said, we have a STRONG list of bonafide coffee shops for those local, and those traveling, too. This was also the year we hit our 200th coffee shop! Ironically, it was a mere week or two before having Brooks and we haven't gotten to add more to the list yet. Excited to do so in 2022!

10. Raw and Juicy- Alys Beach, Florida

Located in the most serene beach community of Alys Beach on 30A, Raw and Juicy is an immaculately curated smoothie and coffee shop with a dreamy environment. While it is known locally more for it's smoothies and healthy food offerings, (it started as a smoothie truck in Seaside many years ago) the coffee is also delectable. Give it a try when in 30a area!

9. Provisions Coffee- Chattanooga, Tennessee

After we procured our first AIRBNB, one of the first things we did was run to a local coffee shop to get fueled up! Our first Chattanooga shop was Provisions and it was definitely a cool location, conveniently situated near the walking bridge. They served Velo Coffee which was awesome!

8. Lemonjello's- Holland, Michigan

This unassuming and relaxed shop is the closest coffee shop to our house! Believe it or not, we liked Ferris so much, we hadn't been to Lemonjello's. However, one fateful Sunday, with Ferris closed, we went to Lemonjello's and absolutely loved the coffee and the GF muffins. We loved them so much this is the coffee shop we most frequented this year by a long shot!

7. Succulent- Balboa Island, California

A new and extremely well curated coffee experience, Succulent is located on the posh and charming Balboa Island, and has plenty of options and kind baristas to walk you through their menu. You can sip your coffee while walking the the beautiful island's perimeter walking path.

6. The Congregation- Detroit, Michigan

Located in an old church, The Congregation, is a spiritual experience, indeed. The coffee and food was superb, and we were pleasantly surprised by the abundance of seating and the artistically inclined environment. Congregation was also our 200th coffee shop--and it was fitting that it was TERRIFIC!

5. The Bradbury- Grand Rapids, Michigan

Situated on Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids, the Bradbury popped up in 2020 attached to one of Hannah's favorite indulgences, Stoffer Home. The Bradbury is (as one would expect) meticulously curated and appointed, but the coffee is nothing to sleep on! The baristas are truly kind and friendly, and The Bradbury makes one feel nestled right at home with each visit.

4. HERST Coffee- Newport Beach, California

You may remember this coffee shop's aesthetic from our 2019 list...well, a new owner and name has not killed the almost perfect vibe or the top 10 coffee. It was so nice it deserved a spot comfortably in the front half of our top 10. Located in Lido on Newport Beach, do not miss this coffee shop (or cool shopping district, either!)

3. KIN- Holland, Michigan

The newest coffee shop on the scene in Holland, KIN is located near the state park and is appointed to feel like a comfortable cafe mixed with the coziness of a library. The owners are terrific and kind, and the coffee and menu are also worth leaving downtown Holland and joining the KIN family!

2. Mad Priest Coffee- Chattanooga, Tennessee

My favorite new Chattanooga hot spot, Mad Priest, is a small shop located just between St. Elmo and just into Chattanooga city limits. The coffee, especially the cold brew, is reminiscent of the best 70% dark chocolate bar you've ever had. If it Chatt, this is your place to get the bean!

1. Reborn- Newport Beach, California

One of my favorite shops we have ever been to, Reborn, is located just a half mile from the AIRBNB we booked in Corona Del Mar, in Newport Beach area. Reborn had one of the best cold brews (and unequivocally the best) almond croissants we collectively believe we have ever had. We went three days in a row, and could hardly get ourselves to try other shops. California has no shortage of great coffee shops, particularly in the CDM and Newport Beach area, but this is more than worth a stop!

Thanks for coming back for more caffeine with us in 2021! As always, more to come next year!