The best cafes in Indianapolis

10 cafes we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Cafes · 10 places · showing the latest additions first

Biggby Coffee keeps Plainfield humming with cheerful baristas and a menu that swings from sweet foam cold brew and best-selling lattes to…

302 Dan Jones Rd #107 (Plainfield)

Biggby Coffee keeps Plainfield humming with cheerful baristas and a menu that swings from sweet foam cold brew and best-selling lattes to Creme Freeze smoothies, tea lattes, and snackable Bragels and muffins. Locally owned and big on farm direct sourcing, it’s the kind of stop that rescues Tuesdays.

From the Plainfield newsletter, September 10, 2026

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Redefined Hope Boutique & Coffee Shop is dialing up the cozy with graphic hoodies, floaty dresses, Indiana-proud layers, and even…

11850 Brookville Rd

Redefined Hope Boutique & Coffee Shop is dialing up the cozy with graphic hoodies, floaty dresses, Indiana-proud layers, and even beautifully pressed Bibles that make gifting easy. Swing by this week to snag something meaningful that still looks great with sneakers and your everyday Lawrence routine.

From the Lawrence newsletter, August 21, 2026

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Since 2004, Strange Brew has been Greenwood’s cozy go-to for properly pulled espresso, iced lattes that actually taste like coffee, and…

4800 Smith Valley Rd (Greenwood)

Since 2004, Strange Brew has been Greenwood’s cozy go-to for properly pulled espresso, iced lattes that actually taste like coffee, and fresh-roasted beans you can take home. Swing by this week for a mood lift, then snag a bag and keep the good vibes brewing.

From the Greenwood newsletter, September 17, 2026

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Whether you need a pick-me-up or a reason to feel good about it, Coffeehouse Five is a for-benefit coffeehouse that roasts its own beans…

323 Market Plaza (Greenwood)

Whether you need a pick-me-up or a reason to feel good about it, Coffeehouse Five is a for-benefit coffeehouse that roasts its own beans and funds free counseling, recovery, and mentor training locally. Swing by this week for roasted coffee, or book a Latte Art Experience or Roasting Room Experience and leave wiser...

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 26, 2026

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Whether you’re craving a thoughtfully pulled espresso or a flaky bite to go with it, Milk & Honey Coffeehouse brings coastal vibes with a…

8505 Southeastern Ave

Whether you’re craving a thoughtfully pulled espresso or a flaky bite to go with it, Milk & Honey Coffeehouse brings coastal vibes with a local flavor, plus a genuine heart for community. Swing by this week, linger over good conversation, and keep an eye out for their community events.

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 20, 2026

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Trendy shop featuring a drive-thru, a broad range of tea and coffee drinks, energy drinks and smoothies.

4420 S Emerson Ave

Trendy shop featuring a drive-thru, a broad range of tea and coffee drinks, energy drinks and smoothies.

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Drive-thru coffeehouse offering a variety of caffeinated drinks, plus smoothies, teas, and milkshakes.

3710 S East St

Drive-thru coffeehouse offering a variety of caffeinated drinks, plus smoothies, teas, and milkshakes.

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Whether you’re craving an artistically curated latte, a pastry from local bakeries, or quality time with adoptable cats, Nine Lives Cafe &…

1315 Shelby St · ✓ checked Sep 12

Whether you’re craving an artistically curated latte, a pastry from local bakeries, or quality time with adoptable cats, Nine Lives Cafe & Cat Lounge has you covered this week. Their IndyAdopts foundation powers the kitty love, and the cafe doubles as a small gallery of local consignment art.

From the Indianapolis newsletter, September 18, 2026

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Pawz Pet Cafe pairs coffee, tea, bubble tea, and easy snacks with a cat lounge full of friendly, adoptable floofs, plus an event space and…

481 Gradle Dr (Carmel)

Pawz Pet Cafe pairs coffee, tea, bubble tea, and easy snacks with a cat lounge full of friendly, adoptable floofs, plus an event space and pet supplies. They closed for renovation on July 27, 2026, so use this week to follow updates and plan your first sip-and-snuggle back.

From the Hamilton County newsletter, September 17, 2026

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Smitten Kitten Cat Cafe and Coffee Shop is the relaxed spot where you can sip coffee, snack on treats, and hang out with adoptable cats.…

7852 E 96th St (Fishers)

Smitten Kitten Cat Cafe and Coffee Shop is the relaxed spot where you can sip coffee, snack on treats, and hang out with adoptable cats. Low-key vibes, high purr count, and the chance to meet your new roommate... not a bad coffee break.

From the Hamilton County newsletter, September 10, 2026

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