A cup of Joe and more at Baltimore's best coffee shops

Get ready to embark on a caffeinated adventure. Baltimore’s coffee shops are more than just places to grab a cup of joe; they’re vibrant hubs of culture, creativity and caffeine-fueled wit. Join me as I explore the quirky and captivating coffee scene that brews in Baltimore’s charming neighborhoods.

Morning Mugs Coffee

15 W. Hughes St.

At Morning Mugs Coffee Shop in Baltimore’s Otterbein neighborhood, experience autumn in a cup with their delightful Pumpkin Cloud and Butterscotch cold foams. And for a taste of campfire nostalgia, indulge in their S’mores Latte. It’s the perfect blend of coziness and caffeine, making mornings in Baltimore simply irresistible.

Black Acres Roastery

1400 Greenmount Ave.

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Black Acres Roastery, in Baltimore’s Station North District, is a coffee haven that transforms beans into stars. With an unwavering commitment to ethical bean-sourcing and a knack for crafting roasting profiles that tell a tale in every cup, Black Acres Roastery creates a coffee experience that’s downright legendary. And be sure to check out their newest cafe in Lexington Market, which features seasonal sips like the “Basic n Boujee,” their take on a pumpkin spice latte made with homemade pumpkin spice syrup.

High Grounds

3201 Eastern Ave.

Nestled near the charming Patterson Park neighborhood, High Grounds Cafe is a cozy retreat for coffee enthusiasts. With a dedication to quality, they brew up a storm, serving everything from classic espressos to frescantes and fruit tea blasts. The cafe’s inviting atmosphere and friendly baristas make it the perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a cup of joe or a tasty pastry.

Artifact Coffee

1500 Union Ave.

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Woodberry, Artifact Coffee is a cherished local gem. This cafe and eatery offers a warm, inviting space where visitors can indulge in locally sourced, meticulously crafted coffee and artisanal treats, including my favorite, the “Ham Jam,” a breakfast sandwich made with egg, cheddar, ham, kale and pepper jelly all sandwiched on a fluffy biscuit. With its rustic charm, Artifact Coffee stands as a beacon of comfort and quality in Baltimore’s coffee scene.

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Sip on matcha lattes or cafe au lait at Pitango Bakery while taking in a waterfront view that even seagulls are jealous of. But don’t stop at the coffee. Their legendary cruffin isn't just a pastry, it’s a pastry worth stalking. (Chris Franzoni)

Pitango Bakery and Cafe

903 S. Ann St.

Sip on matcha lattes or cafe au lait at Pitango Bakery while taking in a waterfront view that even seagulls are jealous of. But don’t stop at the coffee. Their legendary cruffin isn’t just a pastry, it’s a pastry worth stalking. These muffin-shaped croissants stuffed with vanilla creamy goodness are like the Beyoncé of breakfast. And their breakfast sandwiches? They’re so good that morning birds envy them.

Good Neighbor

3827 Falls Road, Baltimore

Situated in the heart of Hampden, Good Neighbor coffee shop is a warm and welcoming haven for coffee enthusiasts. Known for its friendly baristas and community-oriented atmosphere, they serve up expertly crafted brews and delectable pastries. With cozy seating and a commitment to supporting local artisans, Good Neighbor has become a beloved gathering place for Hampden residents and visitors alike, who can now stay at their recently opened seven room guest house.

This charming eatery boasts a delectable menu featuring an array of freshly baked daily delights, including iconic tamago sandwiches (their viral Japanese egg sandwich). (Chris Franzoni)

Cafe Dear Leon

2929 O’Donnell St.

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Located on Canton Square, Cafe Dear Leon beckons with its diverse culinary offerings. This charming eatery boasts a delectable menu featuring an array of freshly baked daily delights, including iconic tamago sandwiches (their viral Japanese egg sandwich), scones, quiches and croissants. Alongside these treats, patrons can savor specialty coffees in the inviting ambiance that defines Cafe Dear Leon. Just be prepared to wait in line — but trust me, it’s worth it.

Order & Chaos

1410 Key Highway

Order & Chaos stands as a testament to coffee culture. With a minimalist design and a menu dedicated to the art of coffee, this shop is a trendy and chill urban retreat. Patrons can savor meticulously crafted brews from their Slayer espresso machine along with a delectable range of pastries, making it an ideal locale for work, relaxation or simply relishing a cup of java.

Zeke’s Coffee

4719 Harford Rd.

Zeke’s Coffee, Baltimore’s renowned family-owned coffee shop, always stands out with its commitment to small-batch brewing. They take pride in their unique fluid bed coffee roaster, which elevates their coffee to new heights of flavor. With a dedication to community, Zeke’s Coffee has become a cherished destination for coffee connoisseurs. And while their flagship is located in Lauraville, you can (fortunately) find them at farmers’ markets around town.

Chris Franzoni is a Baltimore native, resident, food fanatic and “Eater-in-Chief” of @EatMoreBeMore, which he started eight years ago with two goals – eating his way through the city and shining a positive light on the Baltimore-area restaurant and hospitality scene.

Chris Franzoni

chris@eatmorebaltimore.com