3 Best LGBTQ-Friendly Coffee Shops in Austin: Top Spots for Community and Coffee
Austin is known for being one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the country. As a community-centered town, it’s no surprise that Austin’s coffee scene is not only vibrant but also inclusive. We’re exploring the best spots where everyone can feel welcome, enjoy a great cup of coffee.
Where should we go for a latte, a chat, and a friendly atmosphere? With so many options, we’ve picked three of the top LGBTQ+-friendly coffee shops in Austin. These spots offer more than just great coffee; they provide a sense of community and inclusion. From relaxed vibes to excellent brews, these coffee shops have it all.
1. Once Over Coffee Bar
We love hanging out at Once Over Coffee Bar. It’s located in the Bouldin Creek neighborhood and it shares space with El Primo, where you can get some of the best tacos in town.
The coffee here is amazing, using Wild Gift beans, which we think are the best in Austin. They also offer plenty of baked goods, including gluten-free and vegan options.
The atmosphere is cozy inside, but there’s also a beautiful back deck overlooking a creek. It’s a great spot to enjoy a quiet moment or catch up with friends. You can even bring your pups and sit out front.
We appreciate the convenience of being able to order online and pick up right inside the door. The staff is super friendly and makes us feel welcome every time we visit.
Rating: 4.5 (481 reviews)
Location: 2009 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
Website: Visit Website
2. Cherrywood Coffeehouse
Cherrywood Coffeehouse is a gem in Austin. We’ve had some of the best times here. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.
The menu is diverse. We love their hamburgers and tacos. The coffee is locally roasted and organic. They also have house-made iced teas and smoothies.
Cherrywood also offers something unique. You can call in to order food and get beer to go with it. They have growlers and pint fills available. We appreciate the all-day breakfast and the tasty lunch and dinner options.
Rating: 4.5 (2106 reviews)
Location: 1400 E 38th 1/2 St, Austin, TX 78722
Contact: (512) 538-1991
Website: Visit Website
3. Monkey Nest Coffee
Monkey Nest Coffee is a unique spot in Austin that we absolutely love. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great place to relax or get some work done. Inside, there are cozy corners and big tables perfect for studying or meetings.
Their coffee is fantastic. We enjoyed trying different drinks, both hot and cold. The team here really knows how to roast their beans to perfection. Plus, they use organic and socially conscious products, which makes us feel good about every cup we drink.
The food options here are also impressive. They offer a range of pastries and lunch items using local and natural ingredients. We tried their brownie sandwich and couldn’t get enough. The açaí bowls are a fresh, new favorite of ours.
Monkey Nest Coffee regularly features live music, adding to its artsy vibe. With free WiFi, it’s the perfect spot for those of us who need a change of scenery from our usual work or study spaces.
Rating: 4.4 (1729 reviews)
Location: 5353 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756
Contact: (512) 505-8033
Website: Visit Website
Environment and Ambiance
When we talk about LGBTQ-friendly coffee shops in Austin, the environment and ambiance play a big part. These spaces provide cozy atmospheres with inclusive decor that reflects the diverse community.
Cozy and Welcoming Atmosphere
Visiting these coffee shops, we immediately feel a sense of warmth. Large windows bring in lots of natural light, making spaces feel open and inviting. Soft seating areas with comfortable chairs and sofas encourage us to sit back and relax.
Cherrywood Coffeehouse, offers a spacious outdoor patio where we can enjoy sunny Austin days.
Each store often has a unique personality. Whether we’re grabbing a quick coffee or settling in for the day with a good book, these coffeehouses provide perfect hideaways.
Inclusive Decor and Art
The decor in these coffee shops proudly showcases inclusivity. When we step inside, we immediately notice artwork from local LGBTQ artists. These pieces often highlight diverse stories and create an environment where everyone feels represented.
In establishments like Monkey Nest Coffee, bulletin boards feature announcements for local LGBTQ events and groups. This touch not only adds to the decor but also fosters a connected community. Each element in these coffee shops is carefully chosen to ensure everyone feels seen and welcomed.
Community Engagement
Supporting LGBTQ-friendly coffee shops in Austin means participating in their vibrant community. These spots host events and back LGBTQ+ initiatives, creating inclusive spaces for all.
Hosted Events and Activities
Our favorite LGBTQ-friendly coffee shops in Austin regularly host events and activities. For example, some places offer weekly open mic nights, where people can share their talents in a safe and welcoming environment. We also see art shows and gallery nights featuring queer artists, providing a platform for creative expression.
Book clubs and discussion groups meet here too. They cover topics ranging from queer literature to current social issues. These gatherings build a sense of community and allow for meaningful conversations. Regularly held social hours and game nights also help foster a feeling of togetherness and inclusion among visitors.
Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives
These coffee shops go beyond serving great drinks. They actively support LGBTQ+ initiatives and causes. Some partner with local LGBTQ+ organizations, helping to raise funds and awareness. They might host fundraisers or donate a portion of their profits to LGBTQ+ charities.
We notice these businesses champion inclusivity by promoting LGBTQ-related events and celebrations. During Pride Month, they often display flags and signage to show their support. They also provide safe spaces for community groups and support networks to meet. Supporting these businesses means supporting the broader community and its efforts toward equality and acceptance.
Menu and Specialties
In Austin, we’ve found coffee shops that cater to everyone, with options for vegan and gluten-free diets, locally sourced ingredients, and unique drinks you won’t find anywhere else.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
Many of these coffee shops offer delicious vegan and gluten-free options. You don’t have to worry about finding something tasty to fit your dietary needs.
Locally Sourced Ingredients
Using locally sourced ingredients is a point of pride for these coffee shops.
They partner with local farms and suppliers to bring the freshest flavors to their drinks and dishes.
By choosing local ingredients, they’re supporting our community and offering us a farm-to-table experience.
Signature Drinks and Unique Offerings
These coffee shops are known for their signature drinks that stand out in taste and creativity.
A Monkey Nest Coffee, a must-try is the lavender honey latte, combining floral notes with the sweetness of honey for a unique twist on a classic favorite.
Most shops even offer Italian soda and non-coffee drink options, making them perfect for anyone looking for something a bit different.