Gabbi Hall
There are a lot of great coffee shops in Reno, Nevada, but I’m breaking down the best of them. Here are my criteria:
- Good coffee
- Good internet
- Good ambiance
- Places to plug in my laptop
You see, some people just go to coffee shops for the caffeine, but I use them as work spaces. I like to sit for a few hours with my beverage and blog. In fact, I am typing this at Vida Coffee in The Basement. This list are few of the places you’ll find my regularly, but you can check out a full listing of Reno coffee shops on VisitRenoTahoe’s website.
Vida Coffee
This coffee shop often gets overlooked because it’s not on a main street. In fact, because of its location in The Basement, Vida Coffee is kind of like the speakeasy coffee shop of Reno. They offer a lot of fun and different mochas and lattes, so if you like unique flavors this is your spot. It’s also got a special Instagram-ready corner complete with ring light, so you can snap pics.
There are tables within the small coffee shop space as well as out in the main seating area of The Basement. Oh, and easily available plugs, so you can stay charged. It’s not as busy as other locations in town, so it’s a perfect place to get in a flow when you need to work.
Bonus: If you close out Vida Coffee, the Seven Troughs Speakeasy is the next shop over, so you can grab a cocktail.
The Garden of Reno
Located on Wells Ave near the Taco Johns, The Garden of Reno is part cozy coffee shop and part flower show. It’s one of my favorite places for an early Saturday morning writing session. The Garden Reno opens at 7 am. I order a rose latte (of course!) and a bacon and chive scone. Then, I take a seat on a couch or at one of the many tables.
The vibe is floral and welcoming, with soft textures and flowers EVERY where, including a flower wall. While you’re there, you can make your own bouquet or purchase an already-arranged bouquet. Need florals for a special occasion? This spot is owned by Quality Event Design, who can help with prom corsages, wedding florals and event design.
Perenn Bakery
Perenn Bakery has two locations currently: one in Midtown Reno and one in Rancharrah. I’m a regular at Midtown, which has a more limited menu, but equally as delicious. Now, I don’t work from this coffee shop. But the pastries and coffee make it onto this list of the best coffee shops in Reno.
Here’s what to order: a Vietnamese iced coffee, a Kouign Amann pastry and a breakfast sandwich on a croissant with spicy aioli. You can thank me later. Note: Perenn isn’t gluten-free friendly unfortunately.
Coffeebar
Like Perenn, Coffeebar has multiple locations in Midtown, North Reno and Truckee, CA. It’s rarely not buzzing with people not matter which location you choose. Not only is their coffee top notch, but they offer great food, too. I’m a big fan of their breakfast burritos and breakfast sandwiches.
Their locations also offer robust outdoor space, so you can soak in the sun while you sip on your coffee. I love dining al fresco, so that definitely gets Coffeebar bonus points on this best coffee shops list.
Reno Coffee Co.
Reno Coffee Co. is locally owned by the same people that own Blind Dog Tavern in Downtown Reno. Located on Wells Ave. across the street from The Virgil, this coffee shop specializes in pour over coffee. They offer a wide selection of beans to choose from and some specialty beverages like a Morning Mojito (No alcohol. Just iced coffee deliciousness.)
If you’re working from this coffee shop, the offer some light eats, but I also recommend walking to Anna’s Taqueria down the street for lunch. They have can’t-miss tacos. *insert drool emoji*
Pangolin
Turkish Delight, anyone? You get one with any coffee at Pangolin Cafe. This small coffee shop in Midtown Reno is located near Junkees and The Emerson (a great centralized location). My go-to order is an iced Cubano Breve and a pistachio Turkish Delight.
There are limited tables, but great vibes here. It has a clean, minimalist aesthetic and lots of natural light, plus artisan confections to snack on. You can even pick up a bouquet from Emmy’s Flower Shop along with other small gifts and trinkets.
Old World Coffee Lab
When you want locally roasted and coffee made by people who care about coffee, you want to visit Old World Coffee Lab. This is a popular local spot for dates, friendly hangouts and just spending a morning working. It’s always buzzing with regulars. Sit near a window and watch people walk by while you sip on a Mocha Drogata.
Parking can be a little tricky at this location as it’s in a busy area, but you can find free street parking all around as well as metered spots.
