20+ Local Coffee Shops to check out in Tampa Bay
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
In Tampa, you can not drive a block or more without seeing a Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts today. That being said, there are plenty of wonderful independent shops thrown into the mix. I have explored many of these during my 3 years living across the Bay. In my opinion, these small businesses serve better coffee in a cozier, more laid-back setting. Delicious home baked goods, special events, and unique décor are also usually the norm. Not to mention, it’s always great to support local business over the big chains!
From the city itself, to the quaint Gulf communities of North Pinellas, to the touristy St. Pete/Clearwater beach region, there is a great local coffee shop no matter where your adventures may take you. This is my guide to the top coffeeshops throughout the metro area, along with an accompanying area attraction to check out! In no particular order…
Disclaimer: All of the coffeeshops featured on my list are fantastic in my opinion. I have not been paid to promote any of these businesses. Your experience may differe than mine based on personal preferences, service, etc.
1. Cork and Beans
- Location: Downtown Dunedin
- Highlight: Beautiful décor & ambiance
- What to do nearby: Take a bike ride on the Pinellas trail
In Dunedin’s quaint Main Street district, you will find a wonderful family-owned wine/coffee bar. Dark and cozy inside, this is the perfect place to escape the heat for a bit. The classic Italian décor is quite attractive. Serving top notch coffee and espresso, plus delicious homemade pastries, this cafe is the perfect place to fuel up before working up a sweat on the Pinellas trail. I love relaxing at the bar before hitting the bike path. It’s so convenient as there is a lot of free parking in the area. The local vibe & friendly baristas make for a pleasant experience. Other notable features include a shady patio, trivia nights, and wine tastings.
2. Indian Shores Coffee Company
- Location: Indian Rocks Beach
- Highlight: Within walking distance to the best beach on the Gulf
- What to do nearby: Relax at Indian Rocks Beach
2025 Update: As of spring of ’25, this shop is still closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene. They are currently renovating – let’s hope they get back up running soon!
Indian Rocks is the best beach in Tampa Bay, and Indian Shores serves the best coffee in the region. This local roaster serves excellent organic coffee and espresso (their Americano is the smoothest!). If you have a sweet tooth, try one of their specialty lattes (the Choco Mint is a good choice). Morning treats to go along with that joe include muffins (I love the Maui) and croissants. Food and drink aside, the highlight here is the covered patio which you can enjoy all year no matter how sunny or rainy the day may be. I have spent many mornings here enjoying the light breeze, resident house cats, and a great cup of joe! Afterwards, walk across the street to the most relaxing beach on the Gulf!
3. Sips Specialty Coffee
- Location: North Tampa
- Highlight: Cozy ambiance & over-the-top seasonal décor
- What to do nearby: Take a bike ride on the Upper Tampa Bay trail
Sips definitely has the advantage of offering that charming local ambiance where you feel like you are drinking coffee amongst friends. Compared to other coffeehouses in the metro area , they tend to put up the cutest holiday decorations and the vibe is especially cozy and friendly. The house coffee is great and so are the muffins, especially the seasonal Pumpkin. Great selection of bagels as well. Love that they offer a free refill for dine-in customers. Be on the lookout for seasonal drinks, particularly the popular Pumpkin Spice Latte and S’mores mocha. 2025 update: This coffeeshop is under new ownership. Last time I visited, the decor was quite different – a bit more modern if that appeals to you.
4. Buttermilk Provisions
- Location: Wesley Chapel
- Highlight: Homemade pastries (GF & V)
- What to do nearby: Take a bike ride at Flatwoods Park
While suburban Wesley Chapel is loaded with common chains, there is one great independent coffeeshop that stands out. Buttermilk Provisions, a hidden gem tucked away in a strip plaza, offers delicious coffee plus homemade pastries and quiche. Super allergy friendly, Buttermilk offers plenty of GF/vegan fare including donuts, quiche made with a cauliflower crust, and the most delicious poptarts (I love the seasonal Pumpkin spice). The setting is modern with minimal décor, and thus, perfect for a quiet weekend date.
5. Buddy Brew Coffee
- Location: Hyde Park Village
- Highlight: Amazing seasonal drinks (Best PSL in Tampa)
- What to do nearby: Explore the shops of Hyde Park Village
Buddy Brew is a great pick if you are planning a trip to Hyde Park Village to enjoy the amenities of this beloved tree-lined outdoor shopping oasis. While this regional coffee chain has numerous locations, the Hyde Park location offers the best ambiance. If weather permits, enjoy the lovely patio. Buddy Brew serves your standard coffee and espresso drinks, and is also known for making the best Pumpkin Spice Latte come fall. Their Pumpkin Bread is awesome as well. Their tasty homemade biscuits served with honey are a real winner.
