Coffee drinkers will drive miles for a delicious latté or espresso. Luckily, the Kansas map is dotted with one-of-a-kind coffee shops catering to caffeine junkies. Each one is unique, from selling bags of beans roasted on-site to peddling books and selling pastries.
Scroll down to find a Kansas coffee shop worth visiting. What will you order once you arrive?
AD ASTRA BOOKS & COFFEE HOUSE – SALINA
Part cafe, and partly used bookstore, Ad Astra Books & Coffee House resembles a library with tables and chairs for lounging. The relaxed atmosphere is where locals meet up for specialty coffee or tea to chat about local happenings. Exposed limestone and brick walls anchor bookshelves stocked with titles in every genre.
Also a place for families, the youngest visitors will appreciate the children’s book section and inviting gumball machine. I recommend asking about the specialty coffee of the month. Proceeds from my purchase of a Bee Kind Latté went to a local non-profit. You’ll find it difficult to leave without buying a book, t-shirt, or Kansas-themed gift.
GRAVEL CITY ROASTERS – EMPORIA
The highly-rated coffee house, Gravel City Roasters serves a long list of coffee and tea drinks. Never without a short line from the register, customers can also select breakfast muffins, cupcakes, and other pastries. All of the baked goodies are made from scratch.
Popular with residents including college students, it also serves as a retail space selling whimsical gifts. Shoppers in search of puzzles and uniquely crafted artwork are in luck.
FLIGHT CREW COFFEE – MANHATTAN
Wheels up! Flight Crew Coffee, in historic Manhattan, is ready to serve you. Opened this fall, the cafe is bustling with business. And for good reason. The owner, Heather, has considered every detail to ensure your “in-flight service” is seamless.
A bit of nostalgia and a bit of class. the cafe’s interior transports you to aviation heaven. Navy blue walls, black and white prints of airplanes, and a cozy fireplace invite you to nestle up with a coffee in hand. Jazz music plays in the background.
I enjoyed a steaming chai tea with a Quiche Lorraine for breakfast. As they say, “Our Coffee Gives You Wings,” and after my first visit to Flight Crew Coffee, my mood is flying high. Add it to your morning itinerary before stepping out to do boutique shopping. View the cafe’s hours here.
TEN & TWO COFFEE – BONNER SPRINGS
I was curious about a coffee shop I heard was on the same property as a members-only automotive club, The Fuel House. Caffeine is my fuel, so I had to find out more.
Sure enough, as I drove into the gravel parking lot, I spied the sign for Ten & Two Coffee (611 W. 2nd Street). One of three locations, the Bonner Springs cafe, was inside a 100-year-old converted warehouse. The entire space was massive. The coffee bar lived up to my expectations.
Not only does Ten & Two prepare specialty drinks and drip coffee, but they also serve breakfast sandwiches and pastries. A steady flow of customers consisting of locals and out-of-towners came in the door while I enjoyed a homemade cinnamon roll and a cup of signature coffee from a comfortable couch. I spied beer on draft and a menu of specialty cocktails behind the coffee bar. Sure enough, Ten & Two transforms into a taproom after dark.
MCLAIN’S MARKET – LAWRENCE
McLain’s Market is a bakery and coffee shop known as the go-to spot on campus for breakfast and lunch. Once the site of the Jayhawk Bookstore, the restaurant serves a steady flow of students, faculty, and visitors.
The menu features pastries, breakfast burritos, burrito bowls, and snacks prepared fresh from an exposed kitchen space. I arrived between an influx of students, so there wasn’t a line. With my order placed, I nestled into a comfy spot indoors with a view of the patio and passing students.
COLLEGE HILL COFFEE – WINFIELD
I made the short drive to College Hill Coffee , in desperate need of caffeine with a side of breakfast.
The coffee shop is located in a residential neighborhood and draws locals for its relaxed vibe. People sit on patio tables on the front porch or at tables inside what is a converted old house. It feels homey and comforting, like someone invited you over for breakfast. From the breakfast options I could see from within the glass case, I chose a slice of Farmers Quiche to go with a steaming cup of cappuccino. It was made from delicious ingredients and had a flaky crust. It hit the spot.
I took time to enjoy the meal from a quiet spot inside the converted house. The walls were adorned with local artists’ work, and a small amount of retail (bagged coffee, jewelry, and artwork) was for sale. Music played from the room’s speakers, and a cool spring breeze passed through open windows.
NORM’S COFFEE BAR – NEWTON
Having heard that Norm’s Coffee Bar was known for its menu of delicious waffle dishes, I knew I was in for a treat. It turns out breakfast dreams do come true. I chose “The One With the White Sauce” from a shortlist of options. The waffle arrived pillowy soft and warm, drizzled with vanilla custard and raspberry sauce. One bite, and I was in heaven. A large portion, I cleared my plate.
While I love to indulge in sweet waffles, I think I’ll try a savory waffle during my return visit like one made with cornbread topped with chili and cheese, aka “Ring of Fire.” The waffle options are everchanging, but you’re guaranteed to find sweet and savory options with creative toppings.
But I needed a sidekick to go with my breakfast waffles. I ordered a Dirty Chai Tea Latté. It arrived at my table in a mug so large that I had to use two hands to sip my tea. Delicious. Norm’s serves espresso, brewed coffees and blended drinks of all kinds.
BLACKSMITH’S COFFEE SHOP & ROASTERY – LINDSBORG
Considering arriving in Lindsborg in the morning? Grab something tasty to eat and drink at Blacksmith’s Coffee Shop & Roastery. You’ll appreciate their freshly roasted coffee while seated inside the authentic, renovated blacksmith shop. I tried the popular breakfast casserole, biscuits, and gravy during my visit. I recommend asking for a side of lingonberry applesauce — it’s delicious! (Lingonberries are a mountain cranberry in Scandinavia.)
The historic building is the oldest standing building in Lindsborg, dating back to 1874. Opened as a roastery and coffee shop in 2017, it continues to serve visitors a scratch-made breakfast menu and seed-to-cup coffee. You’ll love the building’s original architecture and historic design, from brick-exposed walls to industrial finishes.
How many blacksmith tools will you spot during your visit? View their hours and plan your visit here.
N’CAHOOTS COFFEE & SHOPPE – PRATT
There is no better way to start your day than to stop into N’Cahoots Coffee & Shoppe. As you walk into the café, you’re immediately greeted by the smell of delicious coffee and the sound of chatty visitors. The space is decorated with eclectic furniture, fancy chandeliers, and colorful artwork reminiscent of a big city coffee shop. Much of the N’Cahoots will remind you of the coffee shop from the TV show Friends.
After ordering my chai tea and a slice of Quiche Lorraine, I stepped into the back of the café into a Friends-themed lounge. While dining on my delicious breakfast, I scribbled my favorite cast member quote in chalk on the table and then read Friends trivia. Visiting N’Cahoots is an entertaining experience unlike anything you’ll find in Kansas. It doesn’t stop there – it’s also a place to shop! Before you leave, check out the many retail items for sale, ranging from antiques to body care products.
SIGNET COFFEE – PITTSBURG
“Friends Don’t Let Friends Drink Bad Coffee” is the motto of Signet Coffee Roasters‘ owners, Dennis and Leah. The interesting part of their story, which I still can’t get over, is that they were not “coffee lovers” for much of their adult life. They admit that they didn’t know a good cup of coffee until they had one in Minnesota. It didn’t take long before they were hooked on quality coffee from roasted coffee beans.
I visit many coffee shops when on the road, but I’ve never had such a warm reception. Dennis and Leah made me feel like a local, a regular coffee shop visitor. They took the time to talk to me about their love of coffee and baking.
I have to admit. The homemade Caramel Latte and Cranberry Orange scone were some of the best I’ve ever tasted. The scone wasn’t dry or tasteless like so many I’ve had before. It was moist with big chunks of cranberry and a light orange flavor. And don’t get me started, don’t the coffee! I regret not ordering a larger size. Plan your visit to Signet Coffee Roasters (109 N. Broadway), it’s the best place to start your day when in Pittsburg.
ROOT COFFFEHOUSE & CREPERIE – PITTSBURG
What do you get when you combine comfy lounge spaces and delicious coffee drinks? Root Coffeehouse & Creperie has mastered serving perfected drinks and breakfast items to its adoring fans. The locally-owned gathering spot attracts college students with laptops, ladies’ groups ready to gab, and parents with kids.
I devoured my latté and crêpe from a blue velvet chair at a table near a brick wall. Because it was a busy time to visit, I admired the framed photography on the wall and the succulent plants nearby, both for sale. A Little Free Library tempted me since a new read creates a delightful café experience.
TEREBINTH COFFEE HOUSE & ROASTERY- COFFEYVILLE
The first stop on any traveler’s itinerary in Coffeyville must be Terebinth Coffee House & Roastery (232 W. 9th), where owners Matthew and Madison Frech, and their fabulous staff, turn out delectable coffee drinks and restaurant-quality food. Inspired by a love of community, the coffee shop is a relaxing space with multiple areas to chat with locals or unwind.
Unsure of what I wanted to order initially, the café manager patiently guided me to the menu’s top selections. I ordered a London Fog (Twinnings Earl Grey Tea with foam) and a savory cheddar bacon scone. With the smell of freshly roasted coffee as the backdrop, I watched locals approach the counter to order brewed House Favorite Lattés and espresso drinks before sitting down to read their newspaper or laptop.
COMMON GROUND COFFEE CO. – FORT SCOTT
Bustling with activity, Common Ground Coffee Co. (12 E. Wall St.) is the place to gather at a large table with friends or sit solo to catch up on work. During my visit, community college students intently studied behind laptops while sipping from coffee cups.
You’re guaranteed to be greeted by a friendly face behind the counter. Not always sure what I want to order, the employee was patient while I asked about the breakfast menu options ranging from muffins to fresh-made sandwiches.
OCTAGON CITY COFFEE CO. – HUMBOLDT
At my first stop in Humboldt, Octagon City Coffee Co., I ordered a steaming hot matcha latté. While waiting, I listened to indie rock classics and read a copy of The Iola Register newspaper. As locals came and went, I heard a woman tell the barista, “You’re awesome,” when she predicted her order before she could say it.
The café is surprisingly modern, like a coffee shop you’d expect to see in a big city, but its small-town charm makes it a sure win. Stop by to refuel on caffeine or to shop its retail shelves stocked with KC-made Messenger Coffee bags or cold brew bottles.
CRAFT COFFEE PARLOR – MCPHERSON
The best way to start your day in McPherson is to sip on a freshly brewed cup of coffee and enjoy a cinnamon roll at Craft Coffee Parlor (120 N. Main), a space that reminds you of a big city café. The interior of the coffee shop is designed with a modern, industrial aesthetic. They considered every detail in its design, from the restored wood floors to the artistic details of the latté art. I appreciated the paintings on display while enjoying my coffee in the good company of strangers who studied nearby or were chatting with friends.
I recommend asking the friendly employees about their high-end coffee selection and kombucha on tap. Visiting on a good weather day? Take your coffee outdoors to enjoy the view of Main Street on the front patio under string lights.
GOOD GROUNDS COFFEE SHOP & BISTRO – GOODLAND
There is no shortage of restaurant options when looking for a place to dine in Goodland. For breakfast, I’d recommend driving to the edge of town to Good Grounds Coffee Shop & Bistro. The drive-thru and lobby stay busy, proving that it is one of the best places in town to enjoy a specialty coffee with breakfast.
The Vanilla Latte and Egg and Cheese Biscuit gave me the fuel I needed for a full day of exploring Goodland. If you’re searching for a substantial breakfast, check out the Daily Specials, which often include full-plate meals. The Bistro Originals chalkboard features hearty sandwiches and wraps if you want to stop there for lunch. I suggest viewing the unique artwork for sale on the gallery wall while you wait for your meal to be prepared. Free Wi-Fi is available.
BREATHE COFFEE HOUSE – HAYS
I found Breathe Coffee House to be the perfect way to start my morning in downtown Hays. They serve “oddly correct coffee,” crepes, smoothies, and scones. The cafe’s mission is to serve as a place for people to connect, feel cared for by others, and to welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds.
As I sipped on my latté made from Kansas City roaster, Oddly Correct, I noticed that an entire wall was covered in shelves housing mugs. To join the Coffee Club, the cafe devotees pay $25 as a donation to fund outreach projects. The cafe is a non-profit that supports Dialogue Ministries.
Warm and welcoming, the cafe is a cozy place to enjoy coffee.
JUDEE’S COFFEE – TOPEKA
Judee’s Coffee is a coffee shop highly recommended for serving the kind of coffee connoisseurs rave about.
As I drove up to the building, I saw shoppers milling around a nearby business looking at furniture on display. Some people were exiting with full shopping bags while others were excitedly making their way inside. It was a thrift shop. Very cool. Judee’s Coffee is adjacent to God’s Storehouse, a massive store housing gently used household goods and apparel. Just my luck. I could enjoy breakfast and shop for antique glass and vintage jewelry afterward.
The barista crafted the perfect chai latté for me. The cafe smelled of freshly baked peanut butter cookies while I sipped my drink and watched shoppers peruse the shelves. Quiche, homemade tarts, and cookies sat in the pastry case, waiting for someone to enjoy. A line formed at the counter.
To my surprise, the cafe’s menu prices were quite reasonable. A brown sugar latte on the seasonal board was only $2. It was a real value because they serve Oddly Correct coffee from Kansas City. Later, I chatted with the employees and learned that the cafe’s menu prices are set low to make good coffee accessible to everyone. They refer to it as “generosity at its best.”
THE FEATHERED NEST – BELLEVILLE
Upon arriving in Belleville, Kansas, my first stop was The Feathered Nest, a store that a friend of mine raved about as soon as she heard I was traveling to the area. It’s not a store many discover by happenchance, but one that lives up to its reputation.
A massive home interiors/decor shop with a coffee lounge is a must-visit store. As soon as I walked in, I knew my wallet was in trouble. I wanted to bring the fancy pillows, framed prints, and towering candle holders home. They also sell jars of Kansas-made gourmet foods and chef’s tools to complete one’s kitchen.
The store manager, Lynette, sat down with me to chat about the store in the coffee lounge. I sipped a specialty coffee, The Feathered Frenzy, and enjoyed a scratch-made scone from the espresso bar. As we talked, I noticed several locals sitting together in small groups, talking over coffee. Immediately, I could feel a real sense of community.
KOOKABURRA COFFEE- WICHITA
Heaven on a plate! I highly recommend visiting Kookaburra Coffee and ordering the Red Velvet Waffle, a decadent delight. At Kookaburra, you can enjoy delicious scratch-made pastries, fresh-made coffee drinks, and smoothies in a cafe decorated with an Art Deco vibe.
Prepare to say, “WOW!” from the moment you enter the coffee shop. The drinks, the food, and the Instagrammable decor is everything. Be sure to take your coffee outdoors to enjoy patio seating or to take a photo in front of the massive mural on the east side of the building. Short on time? They have a drive-thru option and deliver via DoorDash.
NO. 7 COFFEE HOUSE – WELLINGTON
No. 7 Coffee House in Wellington is your first stop when in town. A women-owned and operated business open Tuesday-Saturday, the coffee shop is known for its phenomenal baked goods and crafted coffee drinks.
With coffee beans sourced from Topeka’s PT Coffee, the baristas stay busy preparing traditional and specialty coffee drinks, and seasonal drink options like Bees Knees Chai keep it fun. Non-coffee drinkers will gravitate to their hot or iced tea menu.
No. 7 Coffee House is a morning hangout where locals greet one another as they walk in and discuss the day’s events. They sip coffee with dining on maple pecan scones, muffins, and sausage quiche.
This list of coffee shops is just a handful of the ones I’ve visited across the state but worthy nonetheless to share with others. What coffee destination should I add to my travel bucket list?
