My 10 Favorite Coffee Shops Around Fort Worth
- Jillian
- Jan 28, 2022
- 4 min read
I'll be the first to admit that to cut costs, I tend to brew my own coffee at home or settle for the sad excuse served at my campus's dining hall. It's always a solid break from the boring black coffee I brew for myself when I venture out into the city to taste some local flavor. As an ode to the quality coffee that doesn't come from my Keurig, I figured I'd feature 10 of my favorite local coffee shops around Fort Worth and include the most popular order from each.
1. Ampersand
Since I started at TCU, Ampersand has acquired a particularly loyal following from my fellow students. And it doesn't hurt that they opened their second location on campus. It promises a calm and collected atmosphere perfect for studying during the day, but the West 7th location transforms into a rambunctious bar in the evenings. What sets Ampersand apart from the other shops on this list is the option to pair your coffee drink with your favorite spirit. They also offer a small selection of pastries and food, including some incredible (yet pretty pricey) avocado toast.
Fan favorite: Any specialty latte (but might I recommend the hazelnut turmeric?)
Conveniently located along the Trinity River, Ascension is a perfect place to get some coffee grab a bite to eat before embarking on a bike ride or leisurely stroll along the trail. They boast a fairly vibrant atmosphere, so I tend to go there exclusively for brunch (served all day) rather than to do work or study. Another pro is that parking is rarely a problem with a sufficiently sized lot and parking garage roughly next door.
Fan favorite: Craft Cappuccino
Avoca is a Texas-based roaster that opened its first location in Fort Worth in 2011 and has since opened one more in Mule Alley in the Historic Stockyards. Their flagship (and arguably more trafficked) location is located in the Near Southside cultural district. You can even buy their beans to brew at home...but I'll admit it's not quite the same. Avoca is a popular place for students to study or, in this new work-from-home world, to work independently without much interruption or distraction. They also offer curbside pickup seven days a week!
Fan favorite: TX Bourbon Butterscotch Latte
This self-proclaimed "micro-roaster" and "European cafe" promises a slow and steady pace which can be an escape from your typical cowtown beat. While you're enjoying your drink, be sure to try one of their pastries baked in-house.
Fan favorite: Italian Espresso
Upon moving into the former space of Craftwork Coffee, Cherry Coffee has become a particularly popular spot in the Near Southside over the last few months. In fact, I was there last week and casually encountered singer-songwriter Abraham Alexander as well as Texas Ballet Theater soloist Andre Silva, both with whom I had wonderfully candid conversations. With large windows framing the storefront, Cherry offers much natural light as well as a cozy cove to study in the back if you prefer with an odd array of homey carpets, couches, and ottomans.
Fan favorite: Chai Latte
Originally from Waco, Common Grounds has carved out a name for itself in Fort Worth where TCU students flock to it. Setting itself apart from the contenders on this list, Common Grounds offers a notably spacious venue filled with an assortment of seating - from lazy boy recliners, to benches, and to large tables suitable for group work. When the weather is nice, it'll raise it's garage door to let in some sunshine.
Fan favorite: The No Bull
While the name may initially strike you as a bit odd, it aptly accounts for not only the area's oil-rich history but the bold flavors you're sure to experience. CRUDE might be the quietest coffee shop that made the list, but it's the perfect place to dive deep into a book or get some work done with minimal distraction. It also offers a full breakfast and pastry menu, featuring breakfast tacos and gourmet cakes.
Fan Favorite: Any of their specialty drinks
I'll admit I was a bit skeptical at first when a friend introduced me to this coffee shop located on the bottom floor of perhaps one of the ugliest buildings by TCU, but I was hooked from the start. It's a quaint place located roughly two blocks from campus and able to comfortably accommodate only about 25 people, so be sure to arrive at a decent hour to secure a seat. It's quiet enough to allow you to accomplish some work, but don't be afraid to meet a friend there for a conversation. The menu appears to be basic at first glance, but be sure to order a "biswich" or biscuit and ask about their specialty drinks.
Fan favorite: Lil' Sebastian
Located downtown just across the street from the historic post office, Sons of Liberty isn't your cozy coffeehouse but offers a more industrial, minimalist design with many community tables. When you arrive, it's easiest to park in the garage behind the building and validate your ticket.
Fan favorite: Lavender latte
Summer Moon isn't only a coffeehouse but a brand that's taken the city by storm in recent months. Aside from being highly customizable, Summer Moon's coffee drinks are brewed with beans hand-roasted in wood-fired brick ovens to offer a smoother, less acidic flavor. The Texas-based coffee shop's 100% organic coffee beans are still roasted in Austin. The interior is a bit cramped, but there is ample patio seating to enjoy when the weather is decent.
Fan favorite: Half Moon Latte
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