Best Coffee Houses in Cleveland

Known for its carefully roasted coffee sourced from Brazil, Guatemala, Ethiopia, and Sumatra, Ready Set Coffee Roasters offers a cozy spot with a friendly, community-focused atmosphere. Alongside a variety of coffee drinks, they serve Cleveland Bagels and other snacks, with customers appreciating the welcoming staff and unique touches like self-serve milk.

Metropolitan Coffee features a signature blend roasted exclusively by Rising Star Coffee, offering traditional espressos alongside handcrafted beverages like fresh-squeezed lemonade. The nut-free kitchen serves homemade sweet and savory treats, including biscuits with sausage gravy, in a colorful, comfortable space that draws regulars despite limited parking.

A favorite among CWRU students and staff, this coffee house serves breakfast pastries made by an in-house pastry chef alongside a limited lunch menu featuring soups. The cozy, two-level space offers plenty of room to study or meet, though some visitors find it less comfortable during busy times.

Specializing in small-batch coffees sourced from South and Central America, Africa, and Indonesia, Rising Star Coffee Roasters ships beans within 48 hours of roasting. They offer whole bean and various grind options, with free shipping on orders over $30. Customers appreciate the rich, mellow flavors and friendly atmosphere, though some note the roast dates aren’t always visible on packaging.

As Ohio’s only employee-owned cooperative coffee roaster, Phoenix Coffee offers a variety of carefully selected beans roasted downtown and served across five local shops. Customers appreciate the friendly staff, spacious seating, and a welcoming atmosphere that pairs well with their bold, flavorful coffee and a mix of house-made and local pastries.

Duck Rabbit Coffee specializes in rare and carefully curated coffees, focusing on educating customers about the beans’ origins and processing. The roastery offers pour-overs, espresso drinks, and a clean, modern space appreciated for its cozy yet airy atmosphere. Some find seating limited during busy times, but the staff is known to be friendly and knowledgeable.