Craving a caffeine fix or searching for your next favorite brunch nook? Lincoln’s coffee scene is buzzing with locally roasted beans, quirky atmospheres, and enough top-tier pastries to turn every Monday into a celebration. Let’s spill the beans on the city’s best coffee shops—quirks, treats, and community vibes included.
1893 Coffee & Cream | History Buff Hangout
Before you puzzle over the “1893” name, glance up at the sign—a vintage locomotive nod to Havelock’s rail history. Inside, farmhouse chic meets real comfort, with cushy chairs perfect for plugging in a laptop without developing existential dread.
Sip a Lincoln Latte (you’re in Lincoln, embrace it) or unwrap one of their overachieving breakfast sandwiches. The stuffed biscuit tastes like a warm hug in food form. Yes, extra syrups add up fast, but each sip and bite rewards you with quality, local flavor and a dash of railroad lore.
No small talk? The drive-thru has you covered. Whether you’re chasing history or just craving a cozy corner, this spot delivers a genuine taste of Havelock hospitality. Check their hours here.
Mana Games Café | Board Game Heaven With Coffee
Picture a temple for board gamers, tucked into the historic Creamery building in Haymarket. Shelves groan under 1,300+ titles, from time-honored classics to oddball finds. RPG manuals beckon your inner dice goblin while local roasts from The Coffee Roaster fuel epic marathon sessions.
Menus burst with avocado toast, naan pizzas, hearty breakfast sandwiches and pastries that justify an all-day stay. No booze here, and you won’t find people hunched over laptops. Instead, expect a warm, all-ages vibe filled with game nights, crafting workshops and even wholesome drag shows.
Whether you’re a Catan tactician, a strategy-loving bruncher or just in search of community, grab a latte and claim your spot at the next match. plot your visit here.
CTRL | Best for Cereal-Fueled Nostalgia Trips
Tired of the same muffins and muted playlists? CTRL shakes up Lincoln’s coffee scene with self-built cereal concoctions powered by 33 cereal varieties and a mountain of toppings. Yes, you read that right—your breakfast cereal game just leveled up.
They roast local beans into genuinely great coffee, but the real thrill lives in retro gaming tables lining the walls. Challenge friends to Mario Kart or chase pixelated glory in arcade classics. The atmosphere celebrates playful chaos instead of silent laptop tapping.
Not into coffee? Try a lemonade shaker or grab a Lotus energy monster. This place feels like a Saturday morning cartoon marathon—only now you’re legally allowed to be here solo and fueled by nostalgia. Embark on your CTRL adventure here.
The Mill Coffee and Tea | Lincoln’s Cozy Living Room
Since 1975, this spot has quietly caffeinated Lincoln through every coffee trend. Imagine rustic charm colliding with industrial cool: creaky wooden floors, impossibly cozy armchairs and the gentle buzz of real conversation.
The in-house roasted coffee pairs magically with fresh pastries. Whether you crave a sweet treat at dawn or a hearty sandwich in the afternoon, the menu has you covered. Step outside to the patio and watch the neighborhood drift by.
When live performers take the stage, the space transforms into a low-key community hub. Stick around long enough and you’ll start feeling like a regular—no matter how new you are. See why everyone ends up here eventually.
Meadowlark Coffee & Espresso | Sustainably Sourced Community Vibes
If you care where your beans come from, you’ll love this independent gem on South Street. Every cup features organic, fair trade, shade-grown coffee brewed by folks who know their craft.
Skip the mass-market muffins and grab a local bakery’s scone or quiche. Then collapse into one of the big, comfy couches under whimsically painted walls. Artists, remote workers and neighborhood regulars mingle here, debating art or waxing poetic over lemon bars.
Live music, art shows and plenty of outdoor seating keep things lively when the weather cooperates. Cozy yet a little offbeat, this café nails the balance between community hangout and caffeine sanctuary. see what Meadowlark’s got brewing.
The Coffee House | Lincoln’s OG Cozy Hideout
Step inside a place that’s been fueling Lincoln’s curiosity and caffeine needs since the late 1980s. You’ll find a proud collision of vintage couches, mismatched chairs, and wall art plucked straight from thrift store treasure hunts across decades. It radiates a weird, welcoming charm that thrives on personality, not corporate jazz playlists.
The coffee menu ranges from bold espresso shots to mellow drip, all fair trade and thoughtfully sourced. Regulars swear by the Voltaire, a rich blend with notes of dark chocolate and cherry. House-made pastries and seriously crumbly scones might just convert the staunchest morning skeptic.
If you lean toward plant-based options, nutty alternative milks and an eclectic tea lineup have your back. Tucked-away study corners invite you to park your laptop and dive into work without guilt or gossip. Or, if fresh air is calling, snag a seat on the sun-drenched patio and watch the world go by.
This spot balances art-student flair with neighborhood hangout vibes flawlessly. No flashy pretense here—just consistently solid drinks, honest snacks, and a genuine indie spirit that has lasted decades. Whether you’re looking for your daily routine or a weekend treat, it still feels like Lincoln’s original coffee refuge. their website—just try not to spill your soy latte on your keyboard.
Crescent Moon Coffee | Where Creatives & Caffeine Collide
Imagine sipping a single-origin pour-over beneath the warm glow of exposed brick and Edison bulbs. Crescent Moon feels like a speakeasy minus the secret password, weaving smooth jazz and genuine friendliness into every pour. Located in the Haymarket’s lower level, it brings artful caffeine craft right to the heart of town, often accompanied by a live jazz trio.
Their made-to-order crepes are light, fresh, and miles ahead of any microwave muffin alternative. Coffee purists will adore the meticulous roast profiles, while cocktail lovers can dive into an inspired craft beer and cocktail lineup. It’s proof that a coffee stop can be so much more than a quick caffeine hit.
Open mic nights and First Friday art walks give local musicians and artists center stage, turning evenings into miniature cultural festivals. Daytime offers roomy seating for students cracking open laptops or writers seeking inspiration in every corner. When spring arrives, the outdoor patio transforms into a must-visit destination under Nebraska skies.
No pretension here—just genuine ambiance, thoughtful drinks, and events that celebrate Lincoln’s vibrant arts scene. It’s a place where you can find your new favorite crepe and discover a rising singer all in one night. Crescent Moon isn’t just a place to grab coffee; it’s where community and creativity collide. See what’s going down this week at Crescent Moon Coffee.
7 Brew Coffee | Fast, Fun, and Furry Friendly
If you need caffeine on warp speed, this drive-thru powerhouse has your number. There’s no indoor seating or slow-brew rituals—just a slick window where the line rarely slows. It’s built for commuters, student parents, and anyone who treats mornings like a pit stop.
Choose from the straightforward classics or dive into mood-boosting creations like the Ocean Breeze Energy or a Strawberry Smoothie. Their iced Blondie hits the spot on hot afternoons, while sugar-packed options guarantee a smile before 8 AM. Just don’t show up hungry, unless your idea of a snack is leftover foam floating at the bottom of a cup.
A bakery case might be missing, but they make up for it with high-octane menu items and baristas who move at top speed. Bonus points for dog-friendly service—your furry copilot will enjoy a quick treat through the window. If you value efficiency over atmosphere, 7 Brew is your perfect partner.
Open early and late, it handles high-traffic rushes as easily as a Friday morning carpool, complete with cheers from the team inside the window. No fluff, just fast service that keeps your day moving. Expect the aroma of fresh espresso mingling with the hum of passing cars as you roll up. see just how fast you can get your fix.
Harbor Coffeehouse | Your Neighborhood Living Room
Saturday morning or midweek slump, this place nails genuine comfort. Plush chairs and warm wood accents invite you to settle in for longer than the usual coffee stop. Baristas often greet you by name and remember oat milk preferences—no small feat in a busy café.
Their menu covers everything from thoughtfully sourced espresso and creamy cold brew to a soothing London Fog that practically begs you to linger. House-made pastries, bagel sandwiches, oatmeal bowls, and hearty lunch options ensure you’ll leave fueled for hours. Even smoothie lovers and drive-through devotees find something to love here.
Sunlight pours through large windows, showcasing a rotating gallery of local art and frequent pop-up events. It’s one of those rare spots where no one bats an eye if you camp out with your laptop for a couple of hours. Conversation sparks easily, whether you’re there for work or catching up with a friend.
Outdoor seating adds sunshine and fresh air to your morning routine. Plus, the smoothie menu ensures anyone can find something delicious, even without a shot of espresso. It’s the perfect blend of community warmth and quality coffee. Check out the menu that made them a Lincoln staple.
The Chocolate Season | Decadence For Breakfast
If your caffeine adventure involves decadent truffles and possibly the best quiche you’ll find outside Paris, you’ve discovered your new obsession. This isn’t a grab-and-go cookie-cutter café—every muffin here brims with locally roasted espresso and artisanal chocolate. Their espresso bar operates on a first-name basis with house-made syrups, transforming every latte into a mini masterpiece.
A sprinkle of modern charm and cozy seating makes the shop feel like a chocolate-lover’s living room. Step outside to the sunny patio, or let little ones roam free in the dedicated kids’ corner. You’ll probably find yourself lingering longer than planned.
When Waffle Weekends arrive, it’s a celebration worthy of Food Network attention. Pair a warm waffle studded with chocolate chunks and berries alongside sipping chocolate or a flight of small drinks. Each bite and sip feels like a carefully crafted pleasure.
Free Wi-Fi makes it easy to pretend you’re being productive while plotting your next chocolate conquest. Just don’t expect this place to be open on Mondays—they need a day to recharge their magic. See what’s coming out of their kitchen and chocolatier’s workshop here.
Engine House Cafe | Historic Breakfast Comfort
Stepping through the doors at Engine House Cafe feels like slipping back in time. Nostalgia drips from the walls, along with the tempting aroma of pancakes fresh off the griddle. You’ll notice original wood ceilings overhead and antique firehouse gear that makes you wonder if you could learn to slide down a pole and fight fires in between bites.
Breakfast rules this kitchen. You can’t go wrong with perfectly poached eggs Benedict, fluffy biscuits smothered in sausage gravy, or a cinnamon roll so massive it could double as a flotation device. Every dish arrives piping hot and deeply comforting.
Coffee here is simple, honest, and strong – a classic diner brew poured into a warm mug that fits right in your hand. This spot attracts friendly faces and lively conversations, so leave your laptop closed and soak up the good vibes. With prices that won’t break the bank and an atmosphere that feels like home, Engine House Cafe is proof that some traditions only get better with age. Scope the menu and find your new regular.
Mo Java Cafe | Coffee Roasted On-Site
Mo Java Cafe proves that a cozy coffee shop can still surprise you. Inside, the rich scent of beans fills the air while they roast their own coffee in-house. Order a Caramel Nut Toddy and you’ll see why their flavors boast more personality than most poetry readings.
Breakfast here covers everything from crispy breakfast pizzas to perfectly smashed avocado toast. If you need to plug in and plug away, there are plenty of outlets and reliable Wi Fi for remote work or late-night study sessions. Whimsical murals and quirky furniture add a joyful touch to every corner.
An old legend about a friendly ghost only enhances the charm. On warm days, settle into the outdoor seating for a relaxed vibe that spills into live music nights. Friendly staff have welcomed locals since 1994, and the menu’s quality-to-price ratio makes treating yourself refreshingly easy. Check out the menu that’s kept Lincoln caffeinated for decades.
Rock-N-Joe Coffee | Lincoln’s Rock ’n’ Roll Hangout
Rock-N-Joe Coffee feels like a backstage pass for anyone who loves music with their morning cup. Inside, guitar posters and drum kits hang alongside exposed brick walls, creating an industrial vibe that inspires both productivity and daydreams about your favorite concerts.
The baristas grind beans from Dillano’s in Seattle, giving each drink a touch of West Coast cool. You can customize your latte just like your playlist, choosing from hot, iced, or frozen options and swapping in almond or oat milk if you like. Sweet, bold, or somewhere in between, every cup hits the right note.
Power outlets sit at every table so you can pretend to work while you nurse an espresso. When the weekend rolls around, local musicians take the stage for live sets that pair perfectly with a cold brew. For something different, head to the in-house wine tasting room. A patio fire pit beckons you to linger once the Nebraska breeze finally settles down. See why their playlist (and menu) never get old.
The Rabbit Hole Bakery | Whimsical Wonderland for Sweet Tooths
Tucked beneath Yowie’s Lodge in Lincoln’s Haymarket, The Rabbit Hole Bakery feels like a storybook brought to life. Antique clocks, mismatched teapots, and a towering bookcase give this snug haunt a delightful sense of whimsy. Every visit sparks the question of whether you’ve tumbled into a dream.
The coffee menu features beans from The Coffee Roasters of Lincoln, brewed into playful creations named Down the Rabbit Hole or the March Hare. White chocolate and toffee mingle in each cup for a sweet twist on your usual latte. Sip slowly or pair your drink with a slice of cake to turn breakfast into an indulgent adventure.
Dessert aficionados flock for the custom cakes and surprisingly fluffy gluten-free avocado brownies. You can cozy up in a velvet armchair or join the communal table for animated chatter. Charming staff members help guide your choices and add to the lighthearted vibe. It’s the kind of place where stepping in feels like an unexpected detour into pure fun. see what happens when you follow the white rabbit.
Le Quartier Bakery & Café – Meridian Park | Actual French Pastries, Not a Drill
Hidden in the sea of Meridian Park’s strip malls, Le Quartier Bakery & Café surprises you with the aromas of butter and fresh-baked dough. Inside, the cozy space feels more like a Parisian atelier than a suburban storefront. Bakers trained in Paris and Montreal churn out authentic French breads and pastries daily.
Their pain au chocolat rivals anything you’ve tasted from a grocery freezer, and breakfast sandwiches stack eggs and cheese between house-made buns. You can’t skip the fruity danishes or the silky quiches that practically melt in your mouth. If you fancy something cool, the rotating selection of gelato is ready to steal the show.
Yes, prices tilt higher than your average chain, but every bite justifies the splurge. It’s the sort of place that elevates your Saturday routine, even if your friends tease you for calling it le brunch. The hardest decision here is leaving with only one baguette instead of three. Check out the menu that made them a staple.
The Hub Cafe | For Locavores and Latte Lovers
Walking into this laid-back bistro you immediately notice the locals swapping stories over a farmers’ market haul on a random Wednesday morning. Nearly everything on the menu arrives courtesy of a nearby farm: egg boxes, baskets of veggies and even reclaimed chairs sourced from neighbor’s barns and compost heaps. That freshly baked cinnamon roll you spy is proof that flour and sugar still do wonders when backed by purpose, and the espresso flows thanks to Archetype, one of Lincoln’s top roasters.
Outside, happy bike racks stand ready for Lincoln’s cycling crew, while the backyard patio buzzes with conversation. Breakfast sandwiches here haunt your dreams, and there is zero stress if you need a gluten-free waffle or a vibrant veggie scramble. This hideout puts cookie-cutter brunch spots to shame.
Grab your small-batch latte, find a sunny spot and settle in for premium people-watching. Whether you’re here for the food or the friendly atmosphere, this place cements its rep as the city’s most charming morning escape. Check out the menu that made them a staple.
Cultiva Downtown | For Brunch & Bean Purists
Cultiva’s downtown space smells of ambition the moment you walk in. The bar creaks under the weight of beans roasted on-site, turning every pour-over into its own ritual. You’ll be torn between savory omelets, delicate crepes and the panic-inducing joy of too many pastries staring back at you.
Laptops dominate the tables, but there are plenty of seats if you plan to linger. This is not a drive-through pit stop—your espresso demands attention, and the occasional croissant counts as both breakfast and a thinking snack. Halfway through your second shot, you’ll accept that time has no meaning here.
Soft spotlights highlight an eclectic art display, making even a rainy afternoon feel like a gallery opening. Need oat milk in your latte or a fragrant tea instead of coffee? The friendly staff knows just how to fuel your creative marathons. Check out the menu that made them a staple.
Lamar’s | For Donut Maximalists
Stepping up to the counter feels like entering a sugary wonderland. With more than seventy donut varieties on display, you could test a new one every day for months. From a classic glazed ring to apple fritters big enough to double as baseball mitts, each creation looks like a carnival treat begging for a morning boost.
Pair your choice with a no-nonsense coffee or treat yourself to a latte that arrives crowned with silky froth. The caffeine here is strong enough to match any donut’s sugar rush, ensuring no hiccups when it comes to energy levels.
There’s nothing pretentious about the cozy seating and warm Midwest smiles from the staff. They’ll gladly guide you toward their personal favorites if indecision strikes, and prices stay low enough to sample two or three without remorse.
Open at dawn, this shop fuels 5 a.m. go-getters and the donut-for-breakfast faithful alike. Expect a candy-coated welcome every visit. Check out their menu here.
Starbucks | The Reliable Remote Office
You know exactly what you’re getting with this familiar green siren. Caramel Macchiatos pair easily with a Bacon Gouda and Egg sandwich, and you can settle in for a work session faster than you can spell your name right. Routine in every cup has its comforts.
Reliable Wi-Fi that isn’t disguised as someone’s pet hamster and an abundance of outlets turn idle afternoons into productive marathons. No one blinks if you spend hours nursing a Nitro Cold Brew or sneaking in extra pastries between video calls.
Decor stays neutral, steering clear of surprises, so seasonal favorites like a Pumpkin Spice latte become calendar milestones. The drive-thru is a lifesaver on rushed mornings, but inside you might even spot local artwork while you wait for the barista to call out your name. See if your name made the cup today.
Honorable mentions:
• Reactor
