There are two things in life I’m absolutely passionate about: clothes that make me feel good and coffee. When those two intersect, I’m about as happy as possible. Even though coffee shop dates look a little different this year thanks to masks and social distancing, I still love dressing for the occasion. Today, let’s chat about the perfect coffee shop outfit as we transition into fall PLUS 5 coffee shops in Birmingham you have to try.
The Perfect Coffee Shop Outfit
When I think of the perfect coffee shop outfit in the fall, my go-to is comfortable jeans and a chic top. I want to be able to sit for a few hours while I do freelance work but still look cute enough to take a photo… because you know that I’m gonna take a photo. I bought this top from Madewell in their major sale—if you’re looking to shop, you’re in luck because so many of their pieces are still on sale. My top is less than $30 and it’s the perfect option for weekends or workwear.
5 Coffee Shops in Birmingham You Have to Try
Trying out new coffee shops in Birmingham is one of my favorite hobbies. A few years ago, I shared my top 5 coffee shops on the blog—but there are new coffee shops and I’ve gotten even more intense detailed about how I choose coffee shops. If you’re visiting Birmingham for the weekend or you’re looking for a coffee shop to try instead of Starbucks, you’ll love these 5 options (in no particular order). I’ve been to 4/5 on the list in the last two months, and I felt comfortable sitting on a patio or inside in spaced seating, especially because masks are required until you’re seated and with your drink.
Santos
I go to Santos almost every weekend because one of their locations is less than 5 minutes from my house… plus, they’re opening a new location in the building connected to my office. Needless to say, I’m a constant customer. Santos makes my favorite latte in Birmingham, and I love their iced lavender latte for the summer and the basil lavender latte when it gets cooler. Plus, they have delicious crepes and breakfast bowls. Their Hoover location has plenty of seating so if you’re trying to get work done, you’ll be able to find a table or a comfortable chair.
Red Cat
Red Cat is one of my OG favorite Birmingham coffee shops. There are two locations (one in Railroad Park and one at Pepper Place) and both are so airy and perfect to study at or to meet a friend. I love coconut in my coffee, so I always stick with the Burmese latte—coconut and vanilla, yum. One of my favorite parts of Red Cat is definitely the location. With two shops in downtown, you can grab a coffee and walk around the city with friends, enjoying the breeze and the bustle of the streets. Similarly to Santos, Red Cat in Pepper Place has a nice variety of chairs and couches. The Railroad Park location is slightly smaller, but there are plenty of tables if you want to get work done.
Filter Coffee Parlor
I haven’t been to Filter since the pandemic hit, but they are one of my favorite coffee shops in downtown Birmingham! Their honey blossom latte is absolutely amazing, and they’re one of my favorites for relaxing with a friend. There are fewer tables and plugs at Filter, so I prefer meeting there to chat rather than to do a ton of work.
Caveat Coffee
Caveat Coffee is in downtown Homewood and it is adorable! This coffee shop feels like a house with a main floor full of comfy chairs and tables, a downstairs with a large table for meetings, and a covered deck with even more seating. They have some of the creamiest lattes ever and the most welcoming environment.
Church Street Coffee
Church Street Coffee and Books in Mountain Brook is another one of my absolute favorites. I love visiting the shop (in non-pandemic times) and browsing their books while I wait for my vanilla latte. I’m not sure why, but Church Street is my favorite for hot coffee instead of an iced latte. Their shop is so cozy and I love warming up with my go-to latte… and if I’m craving one, a Breakup cookie.
Here’s hoping that soon we can all safely grab coffee together. Until then, I’ll keep dressing like it and maintaining my distance.
Shop the post & Madewell pieces
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