Coffee Shops
Cicada Coffee Bar (Cambridge, MA)
Cicada Coffee Bar is a vibrant, cozy café located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is well-known for blending Vietnamese coffee culture with local New England flavors. Cicada features Vietnamese-style drinks like cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) and egg coffee (a rich, creamy drink made with whipped egg yolks). The café is also praised for its minimalist interior and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for students, professionals, and coffee lovers alike. Cicada offers a limited but thoughtful menu that includes snacks, pastries, and Vietnamese specialties such as banh mi sandwiches. It is highly regarded for its unique approach to blending cultures and crafting quality coffee in a serene setting.
Bettina’s Bakery - Newton Upper Falls
Bettina's Bakery in Newton is a cozy, welcoming spot known for its eclectic mix of Latin American and European-inspired baked goods. The bakery offers a variety of treats, from empanadas and conchas to cakes and cookies, making it a go-to destination for both sweet and savory cravings. With a focus on fresh ingredients and homemade flavors, Bettina’s Bakery provides a unique and flavorful experience for those in the Newton area, blending cultures and tastes in every bite. Its warm atmosphere invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy a delightful moment of indulgence. Fun fact: the owner used to work for Estee Lauder in NYC before becoming an expert patissier in MA!
George Howell Coffee – Newton
This smaller but equally impressive café is located in Newtonville, Massachusetts. It offers a more intimate setting compared to the downtown location, with a similarly curated selection of single-origin coffees and artisan pastries. This shop, while quieter, retains the brand’s commitment to quality coffee and personal service.
Charles River Coffee House (South Natick, MA)
The Charles River Coffee House is a beloved neighborhood café located in the heart of South Natick, Massachusetts. It’s a cozy and laid-back spot where locals come for their daily coffee fix and to enjoy a welcoming community atmosphere. The café offers a variety of coffees, teas, and homemade pastries, perfect for enjoying alongside a good conversation or some quiet time. The Charles River Coffee House also features a warm, homey interior with plenty of comfortable seating and local art displayed on the walls, making it a great spot to relax or work.
Great view of the waterfall across the street!
Tatte Bakery & Café (Various Locations in MA) Elevated City Chic
Tatte Bakery & Café is a well-known chain of artisanal bakeries and cafés in Massachusetts, with multiple locations throughout the state, including Boston, Cambridge, and Brookline. Founded by Tzurit Or, Tatte is renowned for its European-inspired pastries, breads, and café fare, offering everything from buttery croissants to savory shakshuka. The cafes are designed with an open, airy feel and minimalist aesthetic, making them popular spots for brunch, coffee breaks, and casual dining. Their coffee menu is as refined as their food, with espresso drinks and carefully brewed coffee available alongside their signature bakery treats.
We love their black sesame latte and Jerusalem bagel! The lines are long but worth the wait!