Sipping Through Lincoln: A Tour of Local Coffee Gems

Lincoln’s coffee culture is thriving, offering everything from quick drive-thru pick-me-ups to cozy corners where you can linger over a latte and catch up on work. Alongside familiar names like Starbucks and locally owned Scooter’s, new arrivals such as 7 Brew — an exclusively drive-up stop — are adding even more variety to the mix. Still, the real heart of Lincoln’s coffee story lies in its locally owned cafés, each with its own character and loyal crowd.

The Mill Coffee & Tea (www.millcoffee.com) is perhaps Lincoln’s best-known coffee institution. With four locations, including the original Haymarket café at 800 P Street, College View, Innovation Campus, and the trendy Telegraph District spot at 330 S. 21st Street, it has been serving the community for decades. Free Wi-Fi, indoor and outdoor seating, and a creative, energetic vibe make The Mill a go-to spot for students, professionals, and anyone craving a good cappuccino or pot of tea.

The Coffee House (www.thecoffeehouselnk.com) at 1324 P Street, has been part of Lincoln’s downtown rhythm since 1987. Known for speedy service, homemade pastries, and vegetarian-friendly options, it draws a mix of students, locals, and travelers right at the edge of UNL’s City Campus.

For more than two decades, Crescent Moon
Coffee (www.crescentmooncoffee.com) at 140 N. 8th Street has combined coffee culture with a dash of nightlife, offering crepes in the morning and beer, wine, or cocktails later in the day.

If you’re after something quick and refreshing, New Day Coffee & Smoothies (www.nuvibelincoln.com) offers multiple locations, including a popular stop at 4131 Pioneer Woods Drive.

For a more nostalgic feel, Gratitude Café & Bakery (www.gratitudecafebakery.com) at 1551 N. Cotner Boulevard serves its treats in a restored bank building — their scones are a local favorite.

At 5025 Lindberg Street, Rock ’n’ Joe Coffee (www.rocknjoe.com) brings a New Jersey chain’s flair to Lincoln. Beyond coffee, the menu features lunch, wine, and beer, with occasional live music to keep the evenings lively.

Another local standout, Cultiva Coffee (www.cultivacoffee.com) roasts its own beans and serves them at three Lincoln cafés: 2510 Randolph Street, 727 S. 11th Street, and 3535 Holdrege Street. Famous for both their carefully crafted espresso and their sweet or savory crepes, Cultiva is a must-visit for serious coffee fans.

Close to Nebraska Wesleyan University, Mo Java Café and Roasting Co. (www.mojava.net) at 2649 N. 48th Street offers fair-trade organic coffee, sandwiches, and pizzas, a comfortable spot for both study breaks and casual meals.

Since 2005, Meadowlark Coffee & Espresso (www.meadowlarkcoffee.org) at 1624 South Street has built a reputation for fair-trade coffee, locally sourced food, and artistic programming. Live music, poetry readings, and art shows make it as much a creative hub as a coffee shop.

The Piedmont neighborhood has long loved The Harbor Coffeehouse (www.harborcoffeehouse.com) at 1265 S. Cotner Boulevard. Now, with a second location in the Haymarket, it’s even easier to meet a friend for coffee or a casual business chat.

Bagel lovers can’t miss Bagels & Joe (www.bagelsandjoe.com) a Lincoln original since 1993. With three shops at 4701 Old Cheney Road, 1777 N 86th Street, and 7811 Pioneers Boulevard, they offer hearty bagels, good coffee, and plenty of grab-and-go choices.

For those with a sweet tooth, The Chocolate Season (www.thechocolateseason.com) at 3855 Village Lane pairs handmade chocolates with a full espresso bar.

Meanwhile, Bloom Coffee, 505 N 27th Street, Suite #3, keeps things fresh by roasting its beans in-house and sourcing them from fair-trade farms. Alongside their drinks, they serve pastries and hearty brunch options.

Neighborhood cafés also shine. The Front Porch (5925 Adams Street) is known for its welcoming atmosphere and affordable $5 meals, while Le Quartier Bakery & Café (www.lequartierbakery.com) with several locations, including 6900 O Street in Meridian Park Plaza, specializes in artisan breads, croissants, and of course, excellent coffee. 

From long-established icons to hidden gems, Lincoln’s coffeehouses offer more than caffeine. They’re gathering places, creative spaces, and cozy corners to slow down. So grab a friend, explore the city, and discover your own favorite spot to sip.