Austin Is the #1 Coffee City in America Now
Food & Wine's 2026 Global Tastemakers named Austin the best coffee city in America, ahead of Seattle and New York — the city also placed #7 best foodie city overall. It's a real ranking shift, not a marketing line, and most of the shops behind it aren't downtown.
Last updated August 9, 2026
Austin has quietly built one of the country's best independent coffee scenes over the last decade, and a national outlet just said so in print. None of the shops driving that reputation are Starbucks-adjacent chains — they're small, single-location roasters.
Klerje Coffee
Klerje Coffee is a budget-friendly coffee shop in East Austin.
4.8 stars, 178 reviews. $.
Flat Track Coffee
Flat Track Coffee is a coffee shop in East Austin.
4.7 stars, 874 reviews.
Fleet Coffee
Fleet Coffee is a budget-friendly coffee shop in Downtown.
4.9 stars, 29 reviews. $. The smallest review count on this list by a wide margin — genuinely new and still finding its audience.
Leona Botanical Cafe & Bar
Leona Botanical Cafe & Bar is a moderately-priced coffee shop.
4.2 stars, 543 reviews. $$. Cafe and bar in one — coffee by day, a different menu by night.
FAQ
- What's the top pick in "Austin Is the #1 Coffee City in America Now"?
- Klerje Coffee is our top pick.
- How many spots are in this guide?
- We've featured 4 venues in "Austin Is the #1 Coffee City in America Now."
