Burlington, VT has a vibrant coffee scene with a wide range of cafés and specialty spots worth exploring. From longtime neighborhood favorites to unique stops that pair well with a walk or a seasonal outing, here are some local coffee shops to check out around town and beyond.
Belleville Bakery - Parisian Style Baking with Vermont Charm
Belleville Bakery has great coffee paired with baked goods that make it easy to get out of bed in the morning. With Parisian inspiration and a cozy local feel, you’ll find fresh pastries, quiche, bagels, and thoughtfully made sweets that are perfect for a relaxed start to the day.
Vivid Coffee Roasters - Where Burlington Locals Get Things Done
Vivid Coffee Roasters is the coffee shop locals choose when they plan to stay awhile and cross some things off their to-do list. The space is designed for longer visits, with room to spread out, steady energy throughout the day, and coffee that gets you through long work or study sessions. It’s a reliable go-to for remote work, informal meetings, or a mid-day reset when you need to focus with a good coffee.
Haymaker Bun Company - Where the Buns Break the Ice
Haymaker lets their homemade sticky buns do the talking, making it an easy choice when you want conversation to feel relaxed. It works well for casual meetups, catching up with a colleague, or spending time together outside the office.
Uncommon Coffee - Reading and Some “Me Time”
Come for the coffee and leave in the next chapter of your book. Uncommon Coffee In Essex is a quieter spot locals recommend when they want to read, think, or spend time on their own. It’s less about quick stops and more about settling in, making it a good choice when you want your coffee break to last a little longer.
Nomad Coffee - Waterfront Views, Coffee in Hand
Located near the Burlington waterfront, Nomad Coffee is a great spot for Brio coffee and espresso before heading outside. It’s easy to hop onto the Island Line Trail for a walk or bike ride, or head over to Oakledge Park for views of Lake Champlain. It’s a good choice when coffee is part of the plan rather than the destination, especially for mornings that start slow and open into the day.
Brio Coffeeworks - For the Coffee Aficionado
Brio Coffeeworks is for people who take their coffee seriously. As a woman-owned specialty roaster in Burlington’s South End Arts District, they focus on thoughtful sourcing, precise roasting, and a clear respect for the craft. Single-origin coffees, espresso, and brewing methods matter here, and the staff are happy to help you find something that fits your palate.
August First - Where Breakfast is Always on the Menu
August First is a long-standing Burlington favorite loved by early-risers and those who prefer a late start to their morning coffee. With house-baked breads and classic breakfast dishes served all day, the atmosphere is steady, making it a go-to spot to fuel up before heading to Church Street or the Burlington Waterfront.
