Ultimate guide to 13 Auburn + Opelika coffee shops in honor of National Coffee Day

Reading time: 9 minutes

LinkedInShares107
Matcha And Iced Latte From Side Track Coffee Shop In Opelika, Al To Celebrate National Coffee Day
Cheers to National Coffee Day with a matcha and iced latte from Side Track (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

Attention all coffee and coffee shop lovers—National Coffee Day is September 29, plus we know you need a caffeine fix every day. We’re helping you narrow down Auburn and Opelika’s many unique coffee shops to find the perfect spot to celebrate. Keep reading for 13 coffee shops to visit in Auburn and Opelika and what to expect when you walk in the doors—plus, a recommendation from a usual.

1. Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers | buy and read a book

Novel Inspired Drink Special For National Coffee Day
The Wentworth drink special inspired by Jane Austen’s Persuasion (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Img 7065 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Auburn Oil Co.’s storefront in downtown Auburn (Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers / Facebook)
Drink And Muffin From Auburn Oil Booksellers Co.
Latte and muffin from Auburn Oil Co. (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

Auburn Oil Co. is the perfect place for bookworms and stationary lovers. Take a chance on a random “blind date with a book,” stock up on pens and notebooks and enjoy a book-themed drink special. I always feel like I’m the main character in a novel when I browse the bookshelves with a latte in hand. You can have that moment too at Auburn Oil Co. in the heart of downtown Auburn.

Recommendation: the Wentworth Latte

2. Coffee Cat | shop local artists

Front Of Coffee Cat Storefront With Outdoor Seating
Coffee Cat storefront (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Warm And Cozy Front Area Of Coffee Cat With Soft Lighting
Inside of Coffee Cat (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Latte And Dessert From Coffee Cat
Oatmeal cookie sandwich and lattes from Coffee Cat (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

If you’re a down-to-earth, artsy person, Coffee Cat is your place. Plants and artwork line the walls, and the shelves are stocked with local artists’ work. The artsy, cozy vibes are perfect for getting your creative juices flowing to tackle any project. Coffee Cat is also eco-friendly—bring in your own mug or glass for 50 cents off any beverage! This place is any hipster’s dreams.

Recommendation: Harry Styles latte and a pumpkin muffin

3. Bitty and Beaus | have a work meeting

Pastry Case And Bitty And Beau'S Logo
Baked goods selection at Bitty and Beau’s (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Img 5042 1 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Lattes and bagels for breakfast (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Edb13F41 Ba3C 4535 B63E C41Cfde29754 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Modern travel-theme decor (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

Bitty and Beaus’s sophisticated and modern vibe is perfect for your next business meeting. Whether you’re grabbing coffee with a coworker or meeting with a client, Bitty and Beaus is a conveniently located spot with ample seating. One of the few Auburn coffee shops with late hours and open on Sunday, it’s a reliable go-to to satisfy your coffee craving at any time. Not to mention the chain’s mission to employ people with disabilities is an added bonus when you buy a cup here.

Recommendation: Classic vanilla latte and a bagel with cream cheese

4. The Grazer Co. Coffee | photo-worthy spread

Img 7062 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Assortments of goods from the Grazer Co. Coffee (The Grazer Co. Coffee / Facebook)
Img 7063 1 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Bohemian vibes (The Grazer Co. Coffee / Facebook)

Brand new to Auburn is the Grazer Co. Coffee shop. This is your chance to be an early supporter of a fresh local business downtown. The Grazer Co. Coffee offers a unique boho vibe in its shop with clean white walls, comfy seating, lots of natural light and a bohemian color palette. Did I forget to mention that Auburn University students get 10% off?

Recommendation: Cha Yen (house brewed Thai tea) and a Croffle (croissant waffle)

5. Uniq Coffee | be productive

Img 2489 1 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Chai lattes at Uniq (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Img 0584 1 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Indoor seating at tables and the bar (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Img 2621 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Strawberry latte for those who don’t like coffee (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

Uniq has a bright, minimalist aesthetic with tons of natural light. This is another great spot to be productive and get organized. The neutral tones, plants and local artwork create a soothing atmosphere to help you focus in on whatever you’re getting done.

Recommendation: strawberry latte or flat white

6. Well Red Coffee, Books and Wine | catch up with a friend

Affogato And Chocolate Chip Cookie With Bookshelves In The Background
Affogato and chocolate chip cookie (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Banana Pudding And Iced Chai In Front Of Well Red
Iced chai and banana pudding on the front lawn (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Large Hot Tea Held Up In Front Of Well Red Lobby
Hot chai latte enjoyed in the corner chair (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

Well Red is the place to read a book, catch up on work, visit with a friend or satisfy your sweet tooth. Well Red is open from morning to night, making it a reliable go-to for many locals. It’s a space for anyone and everyone with their different events and functions, including:

  • Book clubs
  • Author book signings
  • Open mic and poetry nights
  • Wine tastings

Their in-house baker keeps a rotating menu of specialty desserts that will keep you coming back for more.

Recommendation: Iced brown sugar chai latte or affogato and a chocolate chip cookie (or any of their dessert specials)

7. The Bean | brunch with friends and family

Img 1109 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Cinnamon plum hot tea (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
A97D894E B204 45Ce 8F2B B673590Be3D0 1 105 C Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Baked goods display at the front of the Bean (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
40B0D178 0442 406F 87Cd 1A9Fcf54B003 1 105 C Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Lemon Blush smoothie and blueberry waffles (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

This retro-styled coffee shop is famous for its large gooey cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing. Compliment any of their sweet treats or breakfast items with a drink from their extensive menu. The Bean is never short on seating, so it’s the perfect spot for an Instagram-worthy girls’ brunch or a family outing. I always go here for the colorful décor when I need an instant mood-boost.

Recommendation: Cinnamon roll and cinnamon plum hot tea

8. Ross House | cure homesickness

91De0B01 9C4F 4Bc3 80Bd A3C3Ec06F67C 1 105 C Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Scone and vanilla latte (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
88Bc235A C9Cc 4802 80Ff C99B6F1Bd95B 1 105 C 1 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Spiced apple cider fall special (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

Ross House is another beloved Auburn coffee shop. You can always find college students studying in the multiple rooms of this cozy old house. Sit in a corner nook or the front porch and feel right at home with a warm coffee and homemade baked good. With the longest weekday hours of any coffee shop, Ross House is a favorite for early birds and night owls.

Recommendation: Cinnamon Roll latte or Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and an oatmeal steamer or scone

9. Coffee Mafia | find community

Img 7059 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Coffee Mafia sells work from local artists (Coffee Mafia / Facebook)
Img 7060 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
To-go coffee and pastries (Coffee Mafia / Facebook)
Img 7061 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Coffee Mafia’s famous cold brew (Coffee Mafia / Facebook)

Coffee Mafia has fostered a loyal customer community for their extensive drink menu and welcoming staff. If you’re looking for an inclusive, grunge spot with local artists, head to Coffee Mafia. Better yet, bring Coffee Mafia’s snacks and Mama Mocha coffee to your next meeting or event—they cater intimate and large-scale events to help Auburn stay fueled. Make sure to get a loyalty card to get a free drink after 10 purchases.

Recommendation: Cookie Doe latte, Honey Bomb latte or Peanut Butter Pie latte

10. One Bike Coffee | support local charities   

Img 7072 1 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
One Bike is the only local coffee shop with its own drive-thru! (One Bike Coffee / Facebook)
Img 7070 Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Coffee with a cause (One Bike Coffee / Facebook)

Feeling charitable and thirsty for a coffee? You should go to One Bike Coffee. With the catchphrase “coffee with a cause,” One Bike donates 100% of their profits to local charities and serves up tasty drinks and food items. They even have a drive-thru for on-the-go orders.

Recommendation: Iced brown sugar cinnamon latte and a cappuccino chunk muffin

11. Ristretto Lounge | have a study session

Coffee, Banana Bread, And Water Glass At Ristretto
Cinnamon latte and banana loaf at Ristretto (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

Ristretto Lounge achieves its goal of providing ample workspace to Auburn’s busy population. The ground floor is bright and airy with bright pops of yellow. Whether you’re alone or with a study group, there is plenty of flexible seating (and outlets) to meet your needs. If you prefer peace and quiet, sit in the upper level which offers a subdued atmosphere for those that want to escape the noise.

Recommendation: Nutella Latte, Bomb Latte or Fairly Odd Matcha

12. Side Track | wind down

Inside Of Side Track With Skylight
A large skylight gives Side Track a natural glow (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Young Man Espresso Drink
A Side Track special: the Young Man (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)
Table Decor With Matcha With Rosemary Sprig
Complimentary water is brought to you with your drink order (Presley’s matcha pictured here) (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

There’s no wonder why Auburn students make the trip to Opelika for Side Track. The atmosphere here is completely unique—it’s tranquil, warm, refreshing and colorful. Records are cycled through on the record player all day and the staff is always warm and friendly. Most surprising to newbies—you pick what you pay. Don’t let this scare you, though, just pay what you can and enjoy your drink!

Recommendation: Young Man, Presley’s Matcha or ‘Dealer’s Choice’

13. The Coffee Shop | study group

743Baec0 141A 4487 B981 Bbe975A75De4 1 105 C Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Classic black and white minimalist aesthetic (Elizabeth Hobbs / Bama Buzz)
53Ea910E 4F08 429A B05B 8740Fdf308B9 1 105 C Auburn, Coffee, Coffee Shops, Coffee Shops Near Me, National Coffee Day, Opelika
Mindset is everything: one of the many inspirational messages on the Coffee Shop’s cups (Elizabeth Hobbs / Bama Buzz)

The Coffee Shop offers its patrons an uplifting space to visit with friends, check things off your to-do list or leave with a pick-me-up. The minimalist black and white aesthetic—plus the meeting space in the front window—make this shop another great destination for work meetings or studying. To add another element of positivity to your experience, each cup has a message of encouragement to help get you through the day.

Recommendation: My Sweet Heart or Mama Knows Best

To stay updated on the latest guides and news in Alabama, follow the Bama Buzz on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok + LinkedIn. Let us know how you are celebrating National Coffee Day where you live!

LinkedInShares107
Elizabeth Hobbs
Elizabeth Hobbs
Articles: 27

Related Posts

Trending now

53 new + coming soon homes across Alabama—Nov. 1-3
Set those clocks back this weekend—What you need to know about the end of Daylight Savings
The best Halloween costumes we saw this year around the state
Election Day in Alabama—what to know + sample ballot