Sippin’ Slow in Music City: Nashville’s Best Coffee Spots
There’s something about coffee shops in Nashville that just hits different. Maybe it’s the creative energy that fills the air—after all, this is Music City. Or maybe it’s the way every café seems to balance Southern charm with big-city cool. Whatever it is, Nashville knows how to brew a cup that’s not just coffee—it’s comfort, connection, and a little bit of inspiration in every sip.
Whether you're a student with a stack of books, a dreamer with a journal, or just someone craving a good vanilla oat milk latte (I see you), these are the Nashville spots you need on your radar:
☕️ Frothy Monkey
Locations: 12South, Downtown, The Nations, and more
Frothy Monkey is basically a Nashville staple. It’s one of those places where you can camp out all day with your laptop or meet up with friends over brunch. The drinks are consistently good (hello, turtle latte), and their food menu is way more than an afterthought. My go-to? An iced honey lavender latte with almond milk and the California sandwich. You’ll leave feeling cozy, creative, and maybe even a little more productive.
☕️ The Well Coffeehouse
Locations: Brentwood, Green Hills, and Bellevue
Coffee that gives back? Yes, please. The Well isn’t just about caffeine—they’re on a mission to fight poverty through clean water initiatives around the world. Every latte you sip is helping make a difference. And the best part? The drinks are genuinely amazing. Their caramel cream cold brew is next-level, and the vibe is always peaceful and purpose-driven.
It’s also the place I found myself most when I lived in Nashville at 18. There’s something sacred about the stillness inside those walls—the quiet corners where you can journal, pray, or just be. That little wooden table by the window? That was my sanctuary. It was the backdrop of some of the most important conversations I had with God and myself. If you’re in a season of searching, The Well just might be your soft place to land.
BEST COFFEE I HAVE EVER HAD!
☕️ Barista Parlor
Locations: Germantown, East Nashville, Marathon Village
If you’re into aesthetics, Barista Parlor is a dream. Industrial, artsy, and effortlessly cool, it’s the kind of place where you feel like you're in a film. Their coffee is sourced and brewed with so much care. It’s not the grab-and-go kind of spot—it’s slow coffee for people who want to taste the notes, soak in the atmosphere, and maybe spark a new idea. Try the whiskey caramel latte or a single-origin pour over.
☕️ Crema
Location: Rutledge Hill
Crema is for the true coffee nerds (in the best way). Their sustainability practices, experimental drinks, and light-filled interiors make this a go-to for locals. They roast their own beans and serve up some of the best espresso in the city. Bonus: you can walk down to the pedestrian bridge for skyline views after.
☕️ Humphreys Street
Location: Wedgewood-Houston
This one is a hidden gem with a heart. Humphreys Street is run by a nonprofit that employs and mentors local students—so every cup supports job training and education. Their seasonal drinks are so fun (think brown sugar cinnamon lattes in the fall), and the staff is incredibly kind. It’s small, sweet, and full of purpose—just the way I like my mornings.
☕️ Honest Coffee Roasters
Location: Downtown Nashville (inside the L&C Tower), Franklin
Originally from Franklin, Honest brings modern, minimalist vibes and a seriously good matcha (if you're taking a coffee break). The downtown location is perfect for a midday pick-me-up if you're exploring Broadway or working nearby. Their lavender honey latte and avocado toast combo? 10/10.
Nashville’s coffee scene is more than just about great beans—it’s about connection. Each shop has its own story, and every cup seems to come with a reminder to slow down, breathe, and enjoy what’s right in front of you.
So next time you’re in the city, don’t just scroll through Google Maps looking for “best coffee.” Try one of these local gems, support a mission, soak up the Southern charm, and let yourself be still—even just for one sip.
