Local Lattes- Unique Places to go for your Daily Cup of Joe

For a coffee lover, there are few things nicer than that first sip of a warm, flavorful roast made exactly the way you request it. Add in a cozy atmosphere and personable baristas and you’ve got a great recipe for the perfect morning. Sound dreamy? Fortunately for those in Westerly RI, this is well within reach thanks to the variety of coffee shops that will exceed expectations from the casual cappuccino consumer to the java junkie. Next time you are seeking a memorable location and a quality, handcrafted coffee, check out one of these places and you will surely be jumping for java.

Located at 49 Beach Street, Java is truly a gold mine for young and old, coffee lovers, tea fans, and everything in between. Their extensive menu features numerous beverages prepared in almost any way you could imagine. In addition to coffee (including cold brew on tap, cappuccinos, lattes, and more), they have a large selection of herbal teas that can be made hot or iced. For those looking for a nourishing healthy drink, Java has its own menu for that featuring a matcha green tea latte, Wonder Water, customizable protein shakes, and more. As if all of these delicious choices were not enough, Java offers seasonal specials which will absolutely blow you away. If you’re feeling hungry, Java offers a multitude of baked goods such as bagels, macaroons, and muffins in addition to breakfast sandwiches and of course, their magnificent homemade gelato. The ambience and atmosphere of this lovely location will make it one of your favorite places to be. The seating and décor inside provide customers with a comforting yet upbeat vibe much like the outside patio which is lit up with hanging lights (incredible in the summer!) The staff will make you feel like a friend rather than just another customer, and are always friendly and knowledgeable about what they do. If you’re looking for a place that has a huge variety of quality products for reasonable prices and a beautiful place to sit down and stay awhile, Junk & Java will quickly become a go-to place.

With two convenient and very different locations in both the Savoy bookshop and the YMCA, this café is sure to make an impression on the coffee connoisseur. Their freshly brewed coffee is made from Dave’s locally roasted beans (although not in Westerly, check out Dave’s store in Charlestown, RI) and can be ordered however you like. This café offers a unique atmosphere inside the bookstore for someone who wants a very quiet and relaxed cup of coffee and perhaps a good read. Wakin’ Up Waggin’ also offers a wide variety of homemade baked goods such as giant muffins and cookies that would pair very nicely with a big mug of coffee or chai. The YMCA location makes for a very convenient stop for a pick-me-up smoothie pre or post workout. Whichever location you decide to visit, Wakin’ Up Waggin’ is sure to have just what you’re looking for at a reasonable price and served with a smile.

Located on Broad St., on the Westerly side of the bridge, The Bean Counter is a wonderful place to grab a beverage to-go or to stay awhile and admire the wonderful riverside view. Their drink menu features coffee (hot or iced) lattes, cappuccinos, teas, and more – something for everyone! In addition to beverages, The Bean Counter has breakfast and lunch  sandwiches, such as the lox with salmon, and several different types of pastries. If you’re bringing little ones along, The Bean Counter has toys for their entertainment and newspapers for the convenience of the adults. A note about The Bean Counter – they accept cash only as payment, so be prepared when you go to allow for a completely enjoyable experience at one of Westerly’s signature small coffee shops.

Found in the heart of downtown Westerly, Perks and Corks is known very well for both their coffee and their alcoholic beverages. Although it is a very popular location for the night owls in town, the early birds will find it just as enticing for their morning cup of coffee. Perks also sells Dave’s coffee beans and will be happy to make your favorite latte, cappuccino, chai, herbal tea, or hot cocoa for you at an affordable price. They also offer espresso and macchiatos for those who need a little extra boost. The lounge allows for a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere that is perfect for social interactions and conversation. The unique décor and many different hats this establishment wears makes for an interesting and memorable experience no matter the time of day (or night) you visit.

A local franchise, Bess Eaton coffee shop has a large menu featuring both food and beverages that will start your morning off right. They feature many options that allow you to take their products on the road with you or provide for crowds such as coffee trays, Bess boxes, and their “Bess Bites” (doughnut holes). They also have breakfast sandwiches, a variety of muffins, bagels, hash browns, and more that pair perfectly with their specialty or flavored coffees. Bess Eaton also offers “freezes” for those hot summer days that come in both coffee and fruit flavors. If you decide to enjoy your purchase inside, you will find it has a very local and friendly vibe and is a perfect place to socialize or to read the newspaper while you charge up for the rest of your day. While some could consider it a fast food restaurant, it is clear that the care and quality that goes into all they do separate it from any average franchise and make it unique to our town and surrounding areas.