Local's Guide: Best Coffee Shops in Albuquerque

Drink Coffee Like a Local in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Local's know best, and the best coffee shops in Albuquerque are...

If you are a transplant, coming for balloon fiesta or just want to keep up to date with the best, this is the blog for you. We are two University of New Mexico Anderson School of Management students who obviously need to know where to find the best caffeine fix to keep up! We have additional blog posts digging deeper into our favorites, but this is our summary of the best local coffee shops in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Rust is Gold 

Rust Is Gold Coffee in Albuquerque, NM, is a unique gem known for its vintage bike vibe, exceptional coffee, and vibrant community atmosphere. Besides offering meticulously crafted coffee and delicious food options, it hosts events like yoga classes and Cars & Coffee gatherings, fostering connections among locals and visitors. With its commitment to social causes and welcoming ambiance, Rust is Gold stands out as a top destination in Albuquerque's coffee scene. I have spend many of my days sitting at a table in Rust is Gold, enjoying the sights of cool cars, motorcycles, dogs visiting. Most importantly though, the  passion that the owners have for bringing a quality cup of coffee, a friendly staff and overall community to their fine establishment.

Ihatov Coffee and Bread

Ihatov Coffee and Bread, nestled in Albuquerque's bustling Nob Hill, offers a warm and inviting ambiance perfect for savoring their freshly baked bread and exceptional coffee. From its humble beginnings as a stand at the railyards market, Ihatov has grown into a beloved local spot known for its mouthwatering pastries and diverse bread selection. Despite facing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ihatov persevered and now welcomes patrons to enjoy their delightful offerings in their beautifully transformed space. Whether you're craving a tangy sourdough loaf, a creamy latte, or a flaky almond croissant, Ihatov has something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss out on their delightful limited food menu, featuring standout items like the Sundried Tomato and Brie sandwich. With its cozy atmosphere and delicious treats, Ihatov is the perfect destination for locals and visitors alike to indulge in life's simple pleasures.

 

Java Joe's 

Java Joe’s is a beloved cafe in downtown Albuquerque, cherished by locals and visitors alike for two decades. Known for its rich and flavorful coffee, including signature creations like the Nutty Irish and Creme Brulee Latte, it offers a diverse menu of specialty drinks, teas, frozen treats, and smoothies. Beyond beverages, Java Joe’s serves up delicious and affordable breakfast and lunch options, highlighted by their famous BLT and rotating daily specials. With expert baristas, a friendly atmosphere adorned with local art and live music events, and a commitment to quality and sustainability, Java Joe’s is a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts in ABQ. Conveniently located near downtown parks and the Downtown Growers Market, it's a perfect spot to start your day or unwind with friends.

 

This has been great & we bid you farewell!

We have not tried every coffee shop in Albuquerque but we have tried many, and these are places that we cannot resist going back to over and over! Once you find a place where you can't stop going back, I often wonder... is it even worth going somewhere else? We figure why mess with perfection? As this series comes to an end, we encourage you to go out there try some local coffee shops and find your perfect spot!

 

If you are looking for more reviews by locals

We recommend checking out Local's Guide to Some Coffee Shops in Albuquerque for some other great recommendations by Tracy Cox.