Springfield, Mo., is known for many different things: cashew chicken, Andy’s Frozen Custard, Bass Pro Shops and the hometown of Brad Pitt. What people may not know is that Springfield has not only an abundance of Chinese food restaurants, but also an abundance of places to get an energy boost at any time of day—coffee shops. In the past year, I have been to 20 coffee shops in and around Springfield, and I’ve somehow narrowed it down to my 10 favorite places. Unfortunately, I don’t have a favorite, so they’re just in alphabetical order.
1. B2 Café
On a sunny day, light from the windows at the front of B2 Café illuminate the room and brings a relaxed, natural vibe to the place. The Andes Mint Latte is the perfect blend of espresso, chocolate and mint flavors that truly make it taste like the favorite tiny mint chocolate treat.
2. Big Momma's Coffee and Espresso Bar
I only discovered this coffee shop a few months ago and have already gone three or four times. It’s located near downtown Springfield and has a great selection of food, desserts and coffee. One of the best lattes they have to offer is the Pumpkin King. This unites the flavors of espresso, pumpkin spice and cinnamon to create one of the best pumpkin spice lattes of all time (sorry, Starbucks!)
3. Classic Rock Coffee
This place literally rocks. It’s a coffee shop with a rock music theme—there are posters everywhere, cool lighting, and of course, music playing over the speakers! But the best part, of course, is the coffee. My personal favorite is the Dirty White Boy—white chocolate, cocoa and espresso. What could be better? It’s that you have a wide variety of board games to play as you enjoy your beverage.
4. Country Girls Espresso
If you’re not in the mood to get out of your car to get a delicious cup of joe, then this is your place! You can drive right up to the window at Country Girls Espresso and receive your drink without stepping out of your vehicle. Their caramel latte is simple, yet rich in flavor. It’s a great stop for fabulous on-the-go coffee.
5. Habby's Coffee Shack
Although this isn’t in Springfield, Habby’s is so awesome that it had to make the list. The small building produces many great beverages. The Bean Freeze is like a frappuccino, and you can add any flavor to it, like English toffee or hazelnut. It is located in Reeds Spring, so if you happen to be near Branson, Habby’s Coffee Shack is the place to try.
6. Hebrews Coffee
This coffee shop is relatively relaxed yet lively. It is common to find people meeting, friends catching up and students studying at Hebrew’s while drinking fine coffee. The iced vanilla latte is the perfect caffeinated drink on a hot Missouri afternoon. The flavor of the vanilla blends well with the espresso, which results in a smooth iced beverage.
7. Kingdom Coffee and Cycles
Kingdom Coffee and Cycles is not your typical coffeehouse. It’s actually not only a coffeehouse, but a bike repair shop. There is no atmosphere like it. You might not think that coffee and bikes coincide with each other, but the bikes add an exciting element as you drink a latte.
8. Legacy Bagelry
9. Mudhouse
Located in the heart of downtown Springfield, Mudhouse is one of the most praised coffee shops in the area. It is the place to be on weekends and when there are events going on downtown. Their drinks are unique and tasty. The Mudturtle is particularly heavenly—it combines the classic flavors of chocolate and caramel with espresso and whipped cream. This latte is an excellent treat in the winter.
10. Vintage Paris
Vintage Paris is located about 45 minutes away from Springfield, which is not unreasonable, especially if you’re in Branson for the day. The drive is most definitely worth it because when you walk inside, it feels like home. It smells of coffee and baked goods—what could be better? The toasted marshmallow latte is warm with a hint of summer campfires. Vintage Paris is welcoming and lovely.
Now that it is officially winter, there is no better time than now to go get a hot drink on a cold Springfield day. Although, knowing our city, it could be 80 degrees tomorrow—just play it by ear!
