If you find yourself in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, or are planning a visit in the near future, one thing you must not miss is the vibrant coffee scene that this college town has to offer. Each coffee shop in town has its own unique take on coffee combos and offers different environments for every occasion. Tuscaloosa’s coffee culture isn’t just about fueling up on caffeine; it’s a journey through welcoming spaces, artisanal brews and community spirit. Whether you’re a student seeking a quiet corner to study, a professional looking for a meeting spot, or someone in need of a sweet escape, these local gems have got you covered. The warm, welcoming atmospheres, cozy corners, and a rich tapestry of flavors promise a delightful experience for everyone. Nevertheless, discovering the perfect coffee shop that fits you the best is a task within itself. Every coffee shop offers a different atmosphere, seating, location convenience, music, and most importantly, drinks. This blog be your guide as we take you on a tour of the coffee shops in Tuscaloosa that you absolutely should visit.
Strange Brew Coffee House
I might be biased, but I wanted to start this article off by introducing Strange Brew. This is hands down one of my top 3 favorite coffee shops in Tuscaloosa, and that is for several reasons. Firstly, its location is perfect This is conveniently placed on The Strip, less than a 4 minute walk from Bryant Denny Stadium. Secondly, this coffee shop is the only place open past 8 p.m. every single day of the week. That’s right, Strange Brew is open every day until 11 p.m. I am a night owl, so I personally get my best work done once the sun goes down. And during finals week, this shop is open 24 hours! It is the best place for students at the University of Alabama to go and finish all of their last minute, procrastinated assignments. Moving right along to their food and drink options, name a syrup and they have it. If you like to try new drinks or get crazy and add random flavors to your lattes, this is the place to be. They also have the best baker in town with some of the most inclusive gluten-friendly pastry options. All of my gluten-free friends were so thankful once Strange Brew opened because they finally had a coffee shop where they could enjoy a sausage ball or a sweet pastry. Secret–– if you get an iced latte, make sure to ask that it’s made with espresso. Then no matter what size you get, ask for an extra shot. Their coffee runs on the sweet side, so the extra shot of espresso evens out the flavor perfectly.
FIVE Java
I do not know who was keeping me away from FIVE Java, but I have lived in Tuscaloosa for going on three years and I just recently visited this lovely establishment. Not only is this brand a coffee shop, but it is also a restaurant and a bar after 5 p.m. Starting at 8 a.m. every day, they offer coffee, breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. Literally name it, and FIVE offers it. Now they are a little pricey, so this isn’t a coffee shop you visit often, but it is definitely the place to be to take friends or have a meeting for work. Their syrup flavors are limited, but it is all balanced out with their fresh espresso. When you’re here, you can not miss out on their breakfast options. They have the best breakfast tacos in town. And if you like grits, I would definitely give their breakfast bowl a try.
Turbo
If you’re looking for an environment that is more bright and welcoming and not as dark and cozy as FIVE Jave, then I recommend going a few blocks around the corner to Turbo Coffee. One thing about Turbo is they take their coffee seriously. Their menu is more traditional, advertising cortados, americanos and traditional macchiatos. While all of these are good options, they are not my typical go-to when ordering coffee. You will always find me ordering some type of flavored latte, and I will probably be adding ground cinnamon any chance I get. With that being said, I recommend their cinnamon toast latte, which is perfectly sweetened with maple syrup and topped with all of the cinnamon your heart desires. And I can’t leave out my matcha girlies. I am not the biggest matcha fan, but I have heard they have the best matcha in town. I would definitely give their green eye matcha latte a try if that is your thing!
Java City
Java City is a coffee shop that I just recently started to visit. Since I’ve been on campus I’ve heard so many people talk about “the coffee shop in the library,” but I never really found myself near Gorgas at the University of Alabama. However, this semester I have been exploring and wanted to try this shop that I have heard about for so long. I was pleasantly surprised by my experience here. When you walk in, you order on an electronic kiosk across the room. While the kiosk can be a little confusing, I would suggest trying one of their specialty lattes if it is your first time. As you’ve learned from this article, I am a big cinnamon girl. I got their cinnamon spice latte, and honestly, I’ve ordered it every single time I have been back. So, if you find yourself on campus near Gorgas Library, give Java City a try. The lattes are a little sweet, but they have good espresso and nothing can beat their cheap prices – especially if you have any dining dollars left.
So, whether you’re a local looking for a new hangout or a visitor seeking a taste of Tuscaloosa’s coffee culture, I hope this blog can serve as your roadmap to the finest coffee shops this college town has to offer. From classic cafés to trendy shops, these places are waiting to welcome you with a cup of something sweet – or bitter, just however you like. And I know I left out some amazing coffee shops around town, so if you’re ever bored take a moment and visit a new place near you!
