Guide to Lexington, KY’s
Best Coffee Shops
I’m about to make a shocking confession: I LOVE coffee! My mom often tells the story that a good coffee shop was among my top prerequisites for choosing a college (okay, this is slightttt hyperbole on her part). Then, years later, my dreams came true when I had the opportunity to work as a barista at a local coffee shop. Today, you can usually find me writing blogs from my favorite Lexington coffee shop…but I guess you’ll have to keep reading to find out which one!
Per capita, Lexington is blessed with an amazing selection of coffee shops. From delicious craft roasted coffee beans to unique housemade drink flavors, the Lexington coffee scene has a spot for every coffee preference and atmosphere aesthetic.
While you’re in Lexington, check out our travel guide with all of our other recommendations for the city to ensure you have the inside scoop on all of Lexington’s most beloved hidden gems!
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Best Seasonal Drinks & Laidback Atmoshpere: Leestown Coffee House
When it comes to unique flavor experimentation, nobody in town does it better than Leestown Coffee House. They drop a new seasonal menu, complete with multiple housemade syrups & cold foams, every time the weather begins to change. And we’re in Kentucky so it changes A LOT. Located in an old service station, LCH also has a drive-thru which makes it one of the most convenient stops in Lexington. They also have indoor seating and a parking lot (though occasionally limited during busy times). LCH is my favorite spot in town.
What to Order: The Baklava Latte is my tried & true drink on the regular menu, but I always try their seasonal drinks. This Fall, they are featuring Pumpkin Spice, Caramel Apple, Cookie Butter, Cinnamon Dulce, & Orange Pistachio Matcha drinks.
Best Latte Art & Space: Manchester Coffee Co.
With sunlight streaming in through their mile-high windows, it’s no surprise that Manchester would be the most aesthetic spot in town. The minimalist decor, overflowing with plants, and lime green espresso machine screams vibes from the second you walk in the door. Luckily, their coffee can compete with the aesthetic. With carefully roasted coffee displayed through immaculate latte art, a trip to Manchester is a coffee lover’s dream. Plus, there’s free parking, making it convenient, as well!
What to Order: A straightforward latte complete with a stunning latte art pour. But, if you catch them during the Fall, the Black Cat Mocha (pictured) is amazing.
Best Community Atmosphere: A Cup of Commonwealth
Cup changed the coffee game in Lexington when it opened its doors in 2013. Known for being a pioneer in the pay-it-forward movement, Cup’s walls are covered with sleeves bought by customers seeking to keep their comrades in coffee well-caffeinated. They’ve overcome hurdle after hurdle with grace and persistence, always keeping the Lexington community at the forefront of their misison to “Embrace Community. Serve Others. Create Culture.” Oh yeah, and they make a great up of coffee, too! It’s street parking only at Cup, though Eastern Ave. nearly always has spots available.
What to Order: Brewshine Cold Brew steeped in Kentucky bourbon barrel char - does it get more Kentuckian than that?
Best Bar Conversion: Lussi Brown
Lussi Brown is just cool. Full stop. Coffee shop during the day; full bar at night. Local art lines the walls of their small storefront that opens into more hideaway seating in the back. Plus, their seasonal menu always features a rotation of delicious housemade syrups. A stay in downtown Lex is not complete without a walk to Lussi Brown. Street parking only at this spot, but there are several lots & garages nearby, as well!
What to Order: Anything with their Bourbon Smoked Caramel syrup.
Best Pistachio Drinks: Old School Coffee
Located near UK’s campus, Old School is a great spot for students and professionals alike. The coffee shop is on the first floor of a converted historic building and contains cafe-style seating throughout the floor. Seasonal drinks here are great (especially if they have pistachio in them!) and there’s a free parking lot for the building, making the shop more easily accessible.
What to Order: If there’s a pistachio special (& there often are), that’s your pick at Old School!
Best Art Aesthetic: Third Street Stuff
Third Street Stuff is definitely the funkiest spot in town. Dripping with pop art in the style of local artist & owner Pat Gerhard, the shop is a rainbow explosion of color and controlled chaos! The menu is expansive and features the most robust food menu of any of the options on this list. Plus, coffee specials often pay homage to local celebrities, causes, or events depending on the time of year. The shop has its own free parking lot, welcoming visitors in search of caffeine with open arms.
What to Order: An iced drink special, though I always order half sweet because the drinks are usually a little on the sweet side at Third Street Stuff (& I’m a half sweet boo anyway).
Best for Live Music: Kenwick Table
Nestled in the middle of a residential neighborhood, Kenwick Table is the friendly neighborhood Spi…I mean coffee shop. Known for hosting a plethora of musicians and community events, Kenwick Table also comes packed with a full bar menu, making it a place to come and hang out any time of day.
What to Order: The drink menu is pretty standard, so I usually keep it simple with an iced latte.
After fueling up on coffee, check out our guide to the best lunch spots in Lexington!