Independent Coffee Shops
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Can a coffee shop that built its reputation on photogenic drinks and heartfelt hospitality prove the substance matches the style? Light Heart Coffee opened its third Valley location in Downtown Gilbert in December 2025. This is the newest outpost from four friends (Caleb and Moriah Holland, Elliott and Maddi Morris) who launched their first shop in 2022. The brand grew quickly thanks to photogenic drinks topped with pink cold foam and vibrant matcha layers that look like art statements on your feed.
This location fills a gap that the Gilbert Heritage District has been missing for a while. The space features open seating, natural light, earthy tones, and boho-inspired decor that feels vacation adjacent (a nod to the founders' time in Hawaii). There is a long outdoor patio perfect for people watching with your dog.
This location has a full kitchen (unlike the original Scottsdale shop). You can order breakfast sandwiches and burritos with hash browns inside. The staff happily accommodates modifications. Pastries sell out early so arrive before midday if you want one.
The coffee beans comes from Moxie Coffee Co which I also reviewed on this site. They are the Colombia Laboyano beans if you care. Good stuff but I personally would have preferred the El Nevado over the Laboyano. As for the matcha, Light Heart uses organic ceremonial grade Nekohama matcha sourced directly from Japan. The founders work with a farmer there to choose the blend. About half of their sales are now matcha-based drinks.
I visited on a Sunday early afternoon. The line was long but moved quick. I tried two drinks. The NISU (homemade vanilla syrup, raspberry walls, cardamom) and the Berry Cobbler (their most popular drink, a brown sugar latte or matcha with wild berry puree). Both were delicious with lighter, more delicate profiles than the bold visual presentation suggests. The NISU was a bit sweeter than the Berry Cobbler but not overly sweet. The drinks are beautifully crafted and genuinely tasty. If you are expecting intense flavor that matches the dramatic aesthetics, just know the approach here leans elegant and subtle rather than punchy.
The aesthetic is undeniable. The drinks are gorgeous. The space is thoughtfully designed. The staff is friendly and efficient even when slammed. Light Heart excels at creating an experience. The seasonal menu drops about four times a year with creative options like coconut cream cold brew and banana cream latte. The vibe is cozy and welcoming. This is a great spot to meet friends or bring kids.
Gilbert needed a specialty coffee shop in the Heritage old town area. Light Heart fills that role with charm and genuine hospitality. The drinks deliver quality and creativity even if the flavor profile surprises you with its restraint.
Discover more coffee shops in Gilbert and the East Valley.
Number and Street:
51 W Vaughn Ave
The Bookish Shop in downtown Gilbert is the ultimate destination for romance readers who want a side of caffeine with their latest read. It opened its doors on April 4 2025 and has quickly established itself as a charming community hub. You will immediately notice that the drinks are a major draw here alongside the books rather than just serving as an afterthought add on. I love that the emphasis is on themed specialty drinks that match the romance and bookish aesthetic like the Death Incarnate. The cozy community vibe actually reminds me quite a bit of Revolutionary Grounds Books & Coffee in Tucson. It is so exciting to have another great coffee and books place in the Valley of the Sun to complement spots like William's Coffee Co. You should definitely keep an eye on their schedule because if you are lucky you could walk in on an author book signing.
Checkout other cool coffee shops in Gilbert and the East Valley.
Number and Street:
60 W Vaughn Ave
Coffee Rush is a long standing establishment and is known for its prime locations. The Chandler location has a scenic patio that overlooks a lake. The menu offers an extensive variety of flavored lattes, mochas, and blended "Frost" beverages, with a wide selection of both regular and sugar-free syrups. In addition to a full coffee bar, the shop serves non-coffee options like Italian sodas and pastries, including baklava.
Number and Street:
53 N Val Vista Dr
Coffee Rush is a long standing establishment and is known for its prime locations. The Chandler location has a scenic patio that overlooks a lake. The menu offers an extensive variety of flavored lattes, mochas, and blended "Frost" beverages, with a wide selection of both regular and sugar-free syrups. In addition to a full coffee bar, the shop serves non-coffee options like Italian sodas and pastries, including baklava.
Number and Street:
1555 N Gilbert Rd #107
Is there a measurable difference between coffee made by someone who personally selects each batch and coffee made by someone following a corporate manual?
Casita Coffee is an absolute treasure in Gilbert. It was a beloved mobile cart that blossomed into a stunning brick-and-mortar cafe. The shop is a vibrant celebration of authentic Hispanic coffee culture. The menu is a masterpiece of creative flavor. You can enjoy the soul-warming Cafe de Olla or the dreamy Cookie Butter Latte. Their perfectly spiced Horchata Latte is a standout. Every detail of the chic, cozy space feels intentional and warm. The staff's genuine hospitality makes every guest feel like family. It is an essential stop for anyone seeking a coffee experience full of heart, culture, and unforgettable flavor.
The measurable difference? It starts with beans that are only several days from roasting, a meticulous owner, and one of the best lattes I have ever tasted. Get the full story in my complete Casita Coffee review.
Number and Street:
7 E Palo Verde St #7
The Coffee Shop is a popular destination in Gilbert, Arizona, situated within the Agritopia community. Offering a wide array of coffee and espresso drinks, they also serve a full menu of fresh-baked pastries, sandwiches, and salads. Known for its lively and family-friendly atmosphere, it's an ideal spot to enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee while connecting with the community
Number and Street:
3000 E Ray Rd
What does coffee taste like when the family who grew it also roasts it and serves it to you? At Peixoto, you get to find out. They own their farm in Brazil. The family has been growing coffee there for over a century. This is not some marketing line about partnerships or fair trade stamps. This is actual crop to cup integration that maybe a handful of places in the entire country can claim. It matters because you taste the difference.
The space itself feels like walking into a minimalist tech office but in a good way. Modern and airy with two floors. The upstairs has this loft situation with comfy chairs and outlets everywhere. People camp out here to work (like seriously camp out). You might have to hunt for a table during peak hours but the atmosphere makes it worth the search.
The seasonal drinks get creative without being obnoxious about it. The Coconut Cold Brew comes back every summer and people lose their minds over it! The Hot Honey Latte has a cayenne kick that works better than it sounds like it should. The matcha is smooth and not chalky (which is rarer than you would think). You can get most drinks as either espresso or matcha. This is brilliant because some days you want caffeine that punches you in the face and other days you want something gentler.
They use macadamia nut milk and oat milk. No almond milk though so do not ask. The baristas know what they are doing with pour-overs and actually use gooseneck kettles like they are supposed to. When someone takes the time to do manual pour-overs properly, you notice. Behind the bar sit two Sanremo Opera 3 group head espresso machines. That is six total group heads that could be working at any given time. This is serious firepower that lets them handle volume without sacrificing quality.
The pastries rotate and come from local bakeries. Get there early if you want food because they sell out. The macarons are delicate and worth trying if they have them. On Tuesdays they do Swedish baked goods including cardamom buns with almond paste that are genuinely excellent. The variety keeps things interesting.
At peak times, lines could look intimidating but they move fast. You will get your drink quickly even when the place is packed. The whole operation runs efficiently.
Fair warning about pricing. A 16 ounce specialty latte will run you around eight bucks. Some people think this is reasonable for good coffee from a family farm while others think its steep for their daily routine. You decide where you land on that.
This is what happens when a family decides to bring their century of coffee farming expertise to Arizona. The farm connection is real. The equipment is professional grade. The execution is there in every cup. Worth the trip to Peixoto in Agritopia whether you are settling in to work for hours or just grabbing something excellent to go.
See also Peixoto Coffee Roasters' Chandler Location
Number and Street:
3150 E Ray Rd
Garage-East is an Arizona Farm Winery located in Gilbert's Agritopia community. It primarily functions as a wine bar and tasting room. They focus on showcasing their own and other local Arizona wines. The venue has recently expanded its offerings to include a coffee bar and a full food menu for breakfast and lunch. With a comfortable backyard atmosphere, it also hosts regular live music events.
Number and Street:
3000 E Ray Rd #7
Commons Coffeehouse & Cafe offers a diverse selection of coffee beverages and freshly prepared cafe items. This spacious establishment provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for individuals seeking a place to work, study, or enjoy casual meetings. It uniquely serves as a central gathering point, welcoming all to a relaxed, community-oriented environment. Additionally, the cafe is home to the Commons Prayer Space, a place for quiet contemplation and prayer. Adjacent to the cafe, a bookstore serves as a learning center, with hundreds of books dedicated to the truth that Jesus alone is the hope and salvation for humanity.
Number and Street:
Redemption Church, 1820 W Elliot Rd
ProteinHouse offers a health-conscious menu designed to fuel an active lifestyle, with a focus on fresh, high-protein ingredients. Guests can enjoy a variety of nutrient-dense options, from signature bowls and wraps to customizable protein shakes and fresh juices in a bright, casual setting. This eatery is an ideal choice for those seeking post-workout recovery meals or simply a flavorful, guilt-free alternative to traditional fast food.
Number and Street:
3097 E Pecos Rd #106
Too Sweet Cakes is a specialty bake shop focused on creating beautifully decorated custom cakes, cupcakes, and cookies for special events. With an emphasis on artistic design and a wide selection of flavors, it is a destination for those seeking a personalized dessert centerpiece for a wedding, birthday, or celebration. The bakery operates primarily on a pre-order basis for its custom creations, ensuring each piece is tailored to the customer's vision.
Number and Street:
Leasing Office, 1727 E Pecos Rd
Located in SanTan Village, Frost Gelato offers a rotating selection of dozens of authentic, handcrafted Italian gelatos and sorbets made fresh daily. Beyond their frozen treats, they also serve a coffee menu featuring classic espresso drinks, piccolo and grande sizes, and their signature Gelatte, a hot or iced latte flavored with your choice of gelato. Try an Affogato, a scoop of gelato drowned in a shot of espresso, for a rich and creamy pick-me-up.
Number and Street:
2150 E Williams Field Rd Suite 120
This modern patisserie specializes in a colorful assortment of authentic French macarons, offering a wide array of classic and creative flavors. Beyond its signature cookies, the shop also serves creamy gelato, rich espresso drinks, and a unique treat: macaron ice cream sandwiches. Located in the SanTan Village shopping center, it provides a perfect stop for an elegant dessert or a delightful gift.
Number and Street:
2438 S Recker Rd #106
Tifa Chocolate & Gelato offers a European-style cafe experience specializing in artisan chocolates and authentic, house-made gelato. Located in the bustling Heritage District, this shop provides a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere for enjoying a wide selection of espresso drinks, delicate crêpes, and other confections. It serves as an ideal destination for a decadent dessert or a relaxing afternoon indulgence.
Number and Street:
4935 S Val Vista Dr #101
Linden Organic offers a carefully curated selection of organic coffee and espresso drinks, alongside a menu of wholesome, health-conscious breakfast and lunch items. This establishment prides itself on its bright, welcoming atmosphere, and distinctively roasts its own organic coffee beans, ensuring a fresh and flavorful experience. Patrons can enjoy a vibrant space ideal for productive work sessions, casual meetings, or a relaxing break throughout the day.
Number and Street:
7 E Palo Verde St # 2
Many of these independent shops are deeply committed to the craft of coffee, often adhering to the high standards of quality and sustainability championed by organizations like the Specialty Coffee Association.
Mission
Finding great coffee should be an inspiring experience. We personally vet and curate the best independent coffee shops and roasters across Arizona so you can find your perfect spot with confidence.
Greater Phoenix & Arizona Coffee Directory
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Phoenix, AZ 85048
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