Written by: Olivia Carpenter
Tuscaloosa is full of unique coffee spots whether you are looking for a quick grab-and-go coffee or a place to sit down and stay a while. From drive-thrus with custom drinks to cafés perfect for studying or catching up with friends, there’s a local favorite for everyone. Here is a blog of some of the best coffee shops in town that are definitely worth a visit.
Heritage House: A Cozy Spot for Coffee, Bites, and Productivity
If you’re looking for a welcoming spot in Tuscaloosa to grab a delicious drink and get work done, Heritage House is a go-to spot. Whether you’re coming for a morning pick-me-up or getting comfortable on your laptop for a few hours, this local café provides the perfect balance of comfort and flavor.
I ordered the Bama Blitz Iced Coffee and it exceeded my expectations. It’s a blend of caramel sauce, vanilla, cinnamon syrup, mixed with drip coffee and topped off with steamed milk (I went with almond milk). The flavor was smooth and sweet, but not too sugary!
For food, I ordered the avocado toast, which was fresh with a surprising spicy kick that took it to the next level. I also ordered the cheese grits, which are a classic Southern staple! The food was clearly fresh and well-prepared — I would definitely order these two again!
Heritage House serves breakfast, lunch, and a wide selection of delectable pastries. There is plenty of seating, from tables and chairs to cozy couches, making it a great place to enjoy a meal, hang out with friends, or dive into some work. Whether you love coffee or you are a foodie, Heritage House has everything you need for a good experience!
Monarch Espresso Bar: Downtown Energy & Delicious Eats
If you are looking for a coffee shop with energy that matches the downtown life, Monarch Espresso Bar is the spot is the place to go. They are bustling with energy, and it is the perfect place to grab a bite or grab a coffee on the go. From the moment you walk inside, you will notice a lively atmosphere, large windows that bring in natural light, and plenty of seating for either a group or a solo trip.
The menu has plenty of options, including espresso, pastries, and one of the best matchas I have recently had. It was smooth and flavorful, with the perfect amount of sweetness. I got avocado toast for lunch, which was fresh and full of flavor. The red pepper flakes gave it a nice kick. They also offer bagels with cream cheese if you want something more plain.
The staff is always friendly, even when it is busy during the rush. The service is upbeat and efficient. Whether you are popping in for a quick burst of energy or settling in to do work or meet with friends, this downtown coffee bar is definitely worth trying.
Strange Brew: The Strangest Part is if You’ve Never Been
If you are walking to class or just exploring campus, Strange Brew coffee shop is hard to miss. Their first local location is conveniently located on The Strip, which makes it the perfect stop for a caffeine boost, sweet treat, or late-night snack. Strange Brew also opened a second Tuscaloosa County location in neigboring Northport in 2025!
Strange Brew is open well into the evening, which makes this spot ideal for night owls in need of a pick-me-up. Whether you are studying for exams, catching up with friends, or simply just want a sweet treat, they have got everything you need. The menu includes everything from coffee and energy drinks to creamy gelato, fresh-baked goods, and rich desserts.
I ordered a classic iced vanilla latte with almond milk — and it was genuinely one of the best I have had in town. It was smooth but not too sweet, and very flavorful. If you are someone who loves a reliable favorite, this drink will exceed your expectations. You can choose to sit inside and soak in the cozy atmosphere, or enjoy your drink on the outdoor patio where you can bring your furry friend to join you. They also sell their own coffee grounds and merchandise in-store and online. Keep an eye out for their seasonal drink specials because there is always something new to try!
Turbo Coffee: Sip, Study, and Slow Down
Located downtown on Eighth St. in Tuscaloosa, you will find Turbo Coffee Shop. Turbo provides more than just an energy boost — it’s a relaxing café with peaceful music and comfortable seating. They are currently doing a seasonal menu, where I tried the Strawberry Lavender Matcha, which was delicious. It is a refreshing drink that has sweet flavors with a calming floral aftertaste. I paired it with an everything bagel with garlic herb cream cheese. This bagel combination is my go-to order if you’re looking for a savory pick-me-up. I also tried the Petit 4 Latte with Cold Foam, which did not disappoint.
Turbo Coffee is known for its cold brew, and they will not let you down. They even have bottled cold brew in their fridge if you are looking for something to grab on the go. This spot really stands out for a few reasons. They have board games if you are looking for an activity to pass some time, they have plenty of plants that brighten up the café, and they even have locally featured artwork for sale and merchandise at the front.
Whether you love coffee, breakfast, or you are looking for somewhere quiet to get work done, Turbo Coffee is an excellent spot. It is definitely a spot you will want to come back to!
7 Brew Coffee: Speedy Sips & Custom Flavors
If you are in Tuscaloosa and looking for a fresh grab-and-go coffee, 7 Brew on 15th St. and McFarland is a must-visit. The drive-thru-only coffee shop is known for its fast service and friendly staff. 7 Brew is different from most coffee shops because of their extensive drink menu. Whether you want coffee, cold brew, energy drinks, tea, lemonade, smoothies, or even a milkshake, they have it. The best part about 7 Brew is that every drink is fully customizable. From flavored syrups and milk alternatives to cold foams and sweetness levels, you can create your favorite drink every time.
Although 7 Brew primarily focuses on drinks, they do offer muffins, which are quite tasty. My personal favorites from the menu are the Iced Blondie and the 7 Fizz. The Iced Blondie is a vanilla caramel coffee, and the 7 Fizz is sparkling water with your choice of syrup. I always go for pineapple coconut with cream — it’s very refreshing and tropical.
Whether you’re rushing to class, going to work, or just want a midday drink, 7 Brew is the best place to quickly run through. With fast service and drinks that can be made however you want, it’s easy to see why this spot is becoming a local favorite.
No matter what kind of coffee experience you are looking for, Tuscaloosa has it all. These local coffee shops each offer something special, making it easy to find your new go-to spot in town!
