The coffee shop work session– a favorite of broke college students hammering out problem sets, struggling artists attempting to write the next great American novel, and those wanting to catch up on emails while sipping americanos. Whether you need help breaking through a tough case of writer’s block or are struggling to find a new angle to market your next brilliant idea, a coffee shop work session is sure to help you break out of that rut.
Grab your laptop charger and head out to one of our top five favorite coffee shops in downtown San Antonio:
Sip Brew Bar and Eatery
Where: 160 E Houston Street
When: 7am-6pm
Staff recommendation: Vanilla latte and Sexy sandwich
Located at one of the busiest intersections of downtown SA and a sweet three-minute walk from the Geekdom offices, Sip has gained a reputation for being the go-to spot for quality espresso drinks and cheap eats. Adored by tourists as well as locals, it’s easy to see why. The industrial aesthetic of the interior makes this busy coffee house feel like a renovated factory building, seeming to belong more in Brooklyn than San Antonio. Hip interior complements a good selection of snacks and breakfast sandwiches. Obviously, their coffee is great. The vanilla lattes are legendary– they make their vanilla syrup in-house. If you’re hungry, our staff recommends the Sexy, a breakfast sandwich with fried egg and bacon.
Commonwealth Coffeehouse and Bakery
Where: 112 E. Pecan Street
When: Open 7am-6pm *Closed Saturday and Sunday*
Staff Recommendation: Almond croissant
Did someone say French pastries? CommonWealth Coffeehouse specializes not only in a fantastic, simple cup of coffee, but in authentic French croissants, pan au chocolats, and tart tartins. They focus on incorporating local ingredients into their culinary fare to create a distinctive vibe that can only adequately be described as San Anto-French. Our staff recommends the almond-filled croissant, a pastry that can satisfy any sweet tooth. CommonWealth encourages patrons to “Come and stay as long as you’d like. Even when it is a full house, you’ll be able to find a space just right for you…You are always welcome here at CommonWealth.” So snag your laptop, a cafe au lait, croissant, and settle in to make your #startupgrind feel like less of a grind.
Revolucion Juice and Coffee
Where: 300 E. Houston St., Ste 105
When: Open 7am-8pm
Staff Recommendation: Matcha Latte and Rev Acai Bowl
If you’re craving something slightly healthier, Revolucion, the newest coffee shop in our neighborhood, has you covered. Serving up fresh acai bowls and green juices alongside some great coffee, they’ve got everything you need to keep you fueled and focused for long brainstorming sessions. (Our staff recommends the Rev acai bowl for a cool lunch on a hot day) Looking for something more filling? They make killer breakfast tacos– an SA staple– with a healthy twist. Vegan and vegetarian versions of traditional fillings make these breakfast tacos special. They leave you feeling satisfied, but not bogged down by heavy ingredients. While you’re there, don’t forget to grab some caffeine! Their assortment of various teas and coffees with interesting add-ins like lavender honey make Revolucion a good alternative to your normal mid-afternoon Red Bull.
Local/Merit Coffee
Where: 302 Pearl Parkway
When: MTWTR 6:30am-8pm Fri 6:30am-10pm
Staff Recommendation: Homemade pop tarts and Mexican vanilla latte
This San Antonio chain favorite is undergoing a name change– it’s the same artisanal coffee under a different moniker. With seven San Antonio locations, you’re never more than a couple of miles away from a Local Coffee. Visiting the Pearl location allows you to travel a short way out of downtown to an area with a completely different feel. Situated in one of the best shopping districts in town, this stop encourages a little bit of play alongside your typical work grind. While you’re there, take a break and check out the niche boutiques that the Pearl has to offer.
Rosella Coffee
Where: 114 E Houston St
When: Open 7am-10pm (Midnight on Fridays!)
Staff Recommendation: Mac and Cheese, Avocado Toast, Iced Dirty Chai Latte
Maybe we’re biased, but we think this list wouldn’t be complete without our next-door neighbors. They’ve got everything, from coffee and tea to spirits and mixed drinks. Food-wise, you can’t go wrong with any of their sandwiches or salads. Rosella is the tried-and-true, old-faithful of downtown coffee shops; it’s the perfect spot for anything from an informational interview to a working lunch. While we love the Geekdom offices, we also understand that sometimes our community members need a change of scenery. So walk next door, grab a coffee and sandwich to refuel, then hammer out whatever it is you need to get done.
Final Thoughts: What’s Your Favorite Coffee Bar in San Antonio?
Wherever you choose to work, we love to see our members supporting local businesses. It helps keep our city’s economy vibrant, productive and fosters the entrepreneurial spirit we want here in San Antonio.
Did your favorite coffee shop make the list? Have an idea for this blog? We’d love to hear from you!
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(photos courtesy of respective companies’ Facebook pages)
