Best Third Wave Coffee Shops and Roasters in Arizona
Third wave coffee shops in Arizona obsess over origin transparency, direct trade sourcing and light to medium roast profiles. These cafes emphasize the pure coffee experience by keeping syrups and dessert style drinks to a minimum so the natural flavors of each bean can shine. I personally vetted every shop on this list to bring you the best third wave coffee experiences across Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, Scottsdale, and beyond
Browse Arizona Third Wave Coffee Shops
21 Listings
Valo Coffee is located at the bottom of Bucky's Casino inside the Prescott Resort. You would think that a coffee shop tucked under a casino would feel like an afterthought. You would be wrong. Valo looks and operates like a serious specialty coffee roastery. They roast in house and the entire experience is built around the beans.
The way it works is simple and I love it. You pick a bean (see menu below) and they brew your drink with it. The espresso machine is then programmed with a profile that is specific to those beans. Valo focuses on naturally processed (dried in the sun) single origin beans and they want you to taste the difference between them. This is not a place where you grab a generic latte and walk out. It is a curated tasting experience disguised as a coffee shop. If you actually care about what your coffee tastes like (and I mean the bean itself not the syrup) this is where you should go.
What sets Valo apart from nearly every other coffee shop I have visited in Arizona (and I have been to many) is the machine. They have several Decent DE1 espresso machines. And I do not say this lightly, the DE1 is the smartest espresso machine in the world. It is a computer and software driven driven machine that gives the barista total control over water flow, pressure and temperature. The brewing process shows up as a visible graph on a screen. The barista can program a specific recipe or profile for a shot and make adjustments mid flight if needed. If you have not heard the word "recipe" used with espresso before, that is because the vast majority of machines out there have a single fixed profile built in and cannot be adjusted. Some high end machines allow one parameter to be tweaked at the most. The Decent controls every single parameter. It is essentially a flight simulator for coffee. The level of consistency and flavor precision it allows is something that was simply not possible before this machine existed.
You might be thinking why should I care about all this? Here is the super short version: To capture the best natural flavors out of coffee you want naturally processed beans at a light to low-medium roast level. But light roasts are difficult to extract. They do not behave under pressure the way a forgiving dark roast does. The coffee puck is more fragile and a standard machine with a fixed 9 bar pressure can easily destroy it or under extract it. To pull a great shot from a light roast you need precise control over water flow rate and pressure throughout the entire extraction. That is exactly what the Decent DE1 does.
Most specialty shops in Arizona are pulling shots on La Marzoccos or Nuova Simonelli (great machines). But seeing a Decent DE1 in action is a different thing entirely. Valo is using it to break espresso extraction down to a science and you can taste the result.
The team working the bar were accommodating. They wanted to make sure everything was perfect and it showed. There was no rush. If you are not familiar with the beans or their tasting notes they will walk you through the options and help you pick one based on your preferences. That kind of attention is hard to find.
I wish we had something like this closer to me in the Valley. Phoenix has an incredible craft coffee scene but I have not come across a shop down here running a Decent DE1 with this kind of bean focused approach. For now it lives in Prescott and honestly that alone is worth the drive.
πClick to View the Drink Menu
Note: Menu items are subject to change. Some items could be seasonal and may not be available.
Coffee
Latte β’ Black coffee β’ Espresso β’ Tasting experience (sit-down location only) β’ Cappuccino β’ Flat white β’ Cortado β’ Cold brew
Other Drinks
Hot chocolate β’ Chai
Bean Offerings
Colombia (Dark & smoky)
Brazil (Peanut butter)
Colombia Diego Bermudez Estate (Peach)
Colombia Diego Bermudez Estate (Apple spice)
Honduras Roger Dominguez Estate (Strawberry)
Mexico (Decaf)
πClick to View the Food Menu
Bakery
Various pastries
Number and Street:
1500 AZ-69
Aristocrat Coffee Roasters is a new specialty coffee shop in Downtown Chandler, AZ. The menu includes espresso drinks, Greek coffee, pour-over (coming soon) and desserts.
Paul Roupas is Greek. He named his coffee shop after his favorite saxophone (which hangs proudly on the wall). He worked alongside his father in the restaurant industry for years and carries a long list of SCA certifications under his belt. And somewhere along the way he fell deeply in love with coffee. That combination of hospitality instinct and coffee nerd energy is exactly what Downtown Chandler needed.
When I walked into Aristocrat for the first time, the first thing I noticed was the machine. Sitting on the bar was a black Kees Van Der Westen Spirit espressoΒ machine. I had seen one years ago at a coffee shop out on the west coast during my travels. I thought I would never see one again. Here it was, in Chandler. Paul knows what he is doing.
Currently, espresso is made using single origin Mexican Chiapas beans. I am not always a huge fan of Chiapas, but Paul pulled a latte that was phenomenal! The Kees does not hurt. And here is something I appreciate: hot lattes come in one size. One. If a coffee shop offers you three or four size options, that is usually not a good sign. Every size change throws off calibration and you lose the balance of the drink. At Aristocrat, you do not have to worry about that.
My wife ordered a Freddo Cappuccino (half sweet). For those unfamiliar, it is a popular Greek iced coffee made with a double shot of espresso shaken with ice and topped with thick cold frothed milk. I may have stolen a few sips when she was not looking. It was layered, creamy and perfectly sweet. I highly recommend it.
Paul is also obsessed with roasting quality. He measures the moisture content of green coffee to make sure it lands in the optimal range. He roasts on a Probat which is about as serious as it gets for heat retention and thermal consistency. This is some serious high tech equipment here.
Pour-over options are not ready as of my first visit (mid-March) but they are coming very soon. A Chemex setup is already in place and counter mounted heat lamps are already installed. That kind of detail tells you everything about what to expect.
Parking is easy. There is free street parking and a free city garage right across the street. There is also a nice patio for the cooler months.
Aristocrat Coffee Roasters is in soft opening right now. And honestly, as someone who lives in the East Valley, I find that exciting. This neighborhood does not always get first dibs on the best things. But here is a shop with a world-class espresso machine, a roaster who measures moisture content in green coffee, SCA certifications on the wall and Greek coffee on the menu. This is the kind of place that other cities brag about having. It is right here in Downtown Chandler. Go now, while it is still quiet. You will want to say you were there early.
βΆClick to View the Drink Menu
Note: Menu items are subject to change.
Coffee
Drip of the Day β’ Espresso β’ Americano β’ Cortado β’ Cappuccino β’ Latte β’ Cold Brew/Nitro β’ Pour Over β’ Freddo Espresso β’ Freddo Cappuccino
Not Coffee
Hot Tea β’ Iced Tea β’ Lemonade β’ Energy Drink β’ Bottled Soda β’ Hot Chocolate β’ Matcha Latte β’ Chai Latte
Milks & Flavors
Skim β’ Whole β’ 1/2 & 1/2 β’ Oat β’ Syrup
βΆClick to View the Food Menu
Note: Menu items are subject to change.
Pastries & Sweets
Muffins β’ Danishes β’ Lemon Raspberry Bars
See more local Arizona coffee roasters that prioritize meticulously sourced single-origin beans
Mythical Coffee Roasters - Gilbert
Sagebrush Coffee Shop & Roastery - Chandler
See my list of the best roaster cafes in Arizona for more shops that roast their own beans in-house.
Number and Street:
201 S Washington St
If you are looking for the absolute freshest beans in Flagstaff where you can literally watch the roasting magic happen, you need to get yourself to Single Speed. This place is a total vibe for anyone who geeks out on gear and bean origins and I honestly love that you can grab a seat in the cozy upstairs loft to look down at their "lab" while you sip. Just so you know, true craft takes time here so do not expect a quick "drive-thru" experience when the line gets long or the baristas are dialing in a shot. They really push the boundaries with their roast profiles and extraction, which means the flavor is often adventurous and bold rather than safe and predictable.
Number and Street:
1000 E Butler Ave
What If Coffee Was the Only Thing That Mattered? Exo Roast at 403 N 6th Ave does exactly that. This specialty coffee roaster features rotating single origin coffees and pour-overs as the centerpiece of the experience. Located in a historic building with high ceilings and exposed brick walls, the flagship location showcases on-site roasting equipment center stage. Coffee is the star here, not an afterthought.
Exo serves espresso classics, creative specialty drinks like the Mole Dulce Latte and Chiltepin Cold Brew, and a carefully curated selection of house-made pastries. Every element is designed to support and enhance the pure coffee experience.
The brand also operates Bar Crisol/Exo, a sister location offering a different atmosphere while sharing Exo's commitment to specialty coffee and craftsmanship. Both locations share the same passion for exceptional coffee while offering distinct atmospheres for different coffee experiences. You can also explore Bar Crisol/Exo to discover the sister location.
If you are serious about coffee, Exo is non-negotiable.
Number and Street:
403 N 6th Ave
Discover one of Tucson's most beautiful coffee settings at Presta Coffee's Mercado San Agustin location at 100 South Avenida del Convento. Ugh, you have to see this place. It's a gorgeous, plant-filled coffee bar set within the lively public market. The whole vibe is just incredible, especially when you can grab a coffee and sit out in the stunning shared courtyard. The bar itself is beautiful, with white geometric tiles and an open, airy feel.
They're serving up their own locally roasted coffee and have some cool, science-lab-looking Kyoto-style towers for slow-drip cold brew. It is a really popular spot, and when the baristas are on their game, the coffee can be fantastic. Just so you know, the experience can be a bit hit-or-miss depending on who is working.
Checkout the other Presta locations:
Presta 1st Ave (Mountain) - The industrial-chic flagship and former home of the original roasting operations.
Presta 9th Β St (Iron Horse) - This is the location housed in a 100 year old converted gas station.
Number and Street:
100 South Avenida del Convento #180
If you are looking for what might be the best coffee in Tucson, you have to go to Presta Coffee Roasters. I am serious, this place is the real deal, especially their location in the historic Iron Horse neighborhood. You can just feel the passion for coffee the moment you walk in. The vibe is super cool and minimalist, with a subtle bicycle theme, and the baristas are always so friendly and knowledgeable.
They roast their own beans on a big, beautiful Joper roaster, which is a fantastic sign. What I love is their dedication to craft. You can get a perfect pour-over or Chemex, and the baristas pull incredible shots on a top-of-the-line Synesso MVP espresso machine. It is a fantastic place to just hang out on their spacious patio and enjoy a truly exceptional cup of coffee. You will not be disappointed.
Checkout the other Presta locations:
Presta 1st Ave (Mountain) - The industrial-chic flagship and former home of the original roasting operations.
Presta Menlo Park - A plant filled oasis tucked into the historic Mercado San Agustin courtyard.
Number and Street:
501 E 9th St
Have you ever seen coffee that looks like it was brewed in a science lab? At Presta Coffee's location at 2502 N 1st Ave, you can. This local roaster showcases its craft with visually striking Kyoto-style cold drip towers for a unique cold brew experience. The shop also features a full slow bar with pour-over, Origami, and Chemex options, catering to those who appreciate a meticulously brewed cup. This is the original "roastery" location.
Note: Historically, this location is where Presta roasted their coffee beans. As they expanded, they moved the main roasting operations to a larger dedicated facility.
Checkout the other Presta locations:
Presta Menlo Park - A plant filled oasis tucked into the historic Mercado San Agustin courtyard.
Presta 9thΒ St (Iron Horse) - This is the location housed in a 100 year old converted gas station
Number and Street:
2502 N 1st Ave #100
Savaya Coffee at The Flin is a sunlit Arizona retreat in downtown Tucson. This peaceful shop features rare single origin organic beans and a full craft brew bar.
The Flin is one of those modern residential hubs that feels like a quiet retreat from the heat. Savaya fits into it perfectly. The shop is a peaceful and sunlit space that leans into that Arizona minimalist aesthetic. You will see clean lines and plenty of light. It is a room that feels like a high end brew lab where the furniture is as deliberate as the drink menu.
Owner Burc Maruflu treats coffee with an intensity that makes most shops look like they are just winging it. He is a licensed quality grader. He does not sell any coffee in his shop with less than an 86 rating on a 100 point scale. The setup reflects that obsession. It features a full craft bar with Siphons and Aeropresses. They even have a top tier Victoria Arduino machine for the espresso purists.
The mission here is purity. They do not want to hide the coffee under a mountain of sugar or dairy. They want you to taste the actual notes and characteristics that come from the farm. It is a (taste coffee for the first time) situation. The history of the bean stretches back to the family roots of the owner in Turkey. It is right there in the cup. You should go here if you are a connoisseur who wants to nerd out over a rare 91 rated Yemeni pour over in a beautiful setting. Just do not ask for the creamer.
Find other Tucson locations at Savaya William Centre and Savaya Synergy Plaza.
If you are looking for more local spots, check out my Tucson Coffee Shop Page.
πClick to View the Drink Menu
Menu items are subject to change. Some items could be seasonal.
Drink Menu
Drip Coffee β’ Latte β’ Iced Latte β’ Cappuccino β’ Cortado β’ Espresso β’ Americano β’ Iced Americano β’ Kafette [Turkish]
Cold Brews
Toddy Cold Brew β’ Science Cold Brew
Craft Brew
Aeropress β’ Pourover β’ French Press β’ Siphon
Tea & Other Drinks
Hot Tea β’ Iced Tea β’ Chai Latte β’ Iced Chai Latte β’ Matcha Latte β’ Lemonade β’ Steamer w/ Flavor
Teas Available
Wuyi Oolong β’ Peach Oolong β’ Unsweetened Ujido Matcha β’ Sweetened Ujido Matcha β’ Gunpowder β’ Moroccan Mint β’ Green Pomegranate β’ White Tip Jasmine β’ White Coconut Creme β’ White Peach β’ Arabica Lemon Turmeric β’ Egyptian Chamomile β’ Foxtrot β’ Purple Papayaberry β’ Caramelize Pear Rooibos β’ Cocomint Rooibos β’ French Lemon Ginger β’ Turkish Decaf Apricot β’ Breathe Well β’ Strawberry Rhubarb
Milks
Whole β’ Oat β’ Half & Half β’ Mac
Flavors
Chocolate β’ Caramel β’ Cane Syrup β’ Coconut β’ Hazelnut β’ Lavender β’ Peppermint β’ Vanilla β’ Sugar-Free Sweetner β’ Sugar-Free Vanilla
πClick to View the Food Menu
Menu items are subject to change. Some items could be seasonal.
Explore Tucson Coffee Scene
Tucson Coffee Guide
Exo Roast Co.
Bar Crisol/Exo
Chappopin Cafe
EspresSoul Cafe
Haute Coffee
Red Captain Coffee Company
Savaya Coffee at the Flin
Savaya Coffee at Williams Centre
Savaya Coffee at Synergy Plaza
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Number and Street:
108 S Church Ave
FreeForm Coffee Roasters in Sedona, AZ is one of the best specialty coffee shops in Arizona. Fresh roasts, single-origin espresso options, and a slow bar that means business.
Some coffee shops make you feel welcome. FreeForm Coffee Roasters in Sedona makes you feel proud. I walked out of there thinking: yes, Arizona can absolutely hold its own against any coffee city in the world! And I mean that.
Let me start with the machine. A Victoria Arduino Eagle espresso machine sits behind the bar and if you know, you know. If you do not know, just trust that it is the kind of equipment that signals a place is serious without needing to announce it.
Owners Daniel and Monica Garland have built something genuinely special here. They have since moved their roasting operations from Sedona to a larger facility in Cottonwood, AZ which tells you the operation is growing. But the soul of it is still very much present in this shop by the Open Gate Sculpture roundabout.
Now here is where it gets fun. You get to choose your espresso base from their single-origin options. That alone puts FreeForm in a different category from most coffee shops. I went with the Ethiopian Suke Quto for my latte. It is a microlot from the Guji highlands, processed using a limited-oxygen fermentation that pulls out floral aromatics, sparkling fruit character and dark chocolate depth. Light roasted. Phenomenal. Perfectly balanced. One of the better lattes I have had in a long time.
I had my eye on the Mon Cheri seasonal blend for a second latte (notes of amaretto, cherry, almond and milk chocolate). Turns out it was not available as an espresso base option that day. These things happen with seasonal and specialty offerings. No hard feelings. It is actually available as a pour over, which is probably the right format for beans that expressive anyway. And it gives me a perfectly good reason to go back.
Speaking of pour overs, the slow bar here is impressive. Multiple single-origin options. This is a proper destination for coffee aficionados. The kind of place where you can go deep if you want to, or simply order a Vanilla Rose Latte and a muffin without anyone giving you a look. FreeForm famously upholds a no coffee snobbery policy and I love them for it.
All the coffee bags for sale are beautifully packed and smell incredible. They are days fresh from the roast. I already had plenty of single origins at home but I still bought a 12oz bag of their Breakfast Blend Aurora (Brazil, Peru and Ethiopia). Named for the Roman goddess of dawn. Nutty, chocolatey and low in acidity. It was calling my name and I answered.
The space itself is small but well done. Comfortable seating inside. And then there is the upstairs outdoor area that overlooks the Tlaquepaque shopping center and Oak Creek. We ended up walking to Tlaquepaque after (about a 5 minute walk) and crossed a beautiful pedestrian bridge over Oak Creek where the water was moving fast. A perfect pairing with a great cup of coffee.
Now let me tell you about the part that actually made me respect this place beyond the coffee. Accourding to their website, FreeForm donates 1% of coffee sales revenue to vetted regional nonprofits working in environmental stewardship and human rights. They offset the carbon footprint of every package they ship. They have planted 15,300 trees in partnership with Eden Reforestation Projects. They pay all employees a minimum of $25 per hour (well above Arizona's minimum wage) and offer employer sponsored healthcare. They source at a minimum of twice Fair Trade standards.
This is a business that actually walks the walk.
If you are visiting Sedona and you love coffee, FreeForm is not optional. And if you live in Arizona and have not made the trip yet, what are you waiting for?
Visit my Sedona Coffee Guide for more.
Number and Street:
411 AZ-179 Suite 7
Think your local coffee shop really knows its beans? Peixoto does not just know them, they grew them! On their family farm in Brazil where the Peixoto name has been tied to coffee for over a century.
Walk into this place and the first thing that hits you is the light. High ceilings pull your eyes up to exposed beams and industrial touches that somehow feel warm instead of cold. Hanging pothos plants cascade down from above (and they look healthy, which means someone here actually cares). The space breathes. Natural sunlight pours through the windows and catches on the glassware they use for every drink. These are not paper cups. Your latte arrives in actual glass that shows off the layers and the foam art.
The smell is what keeps you there. Fresh roasted coffee with none of that burnt edge you get at places that do not understand their beans. Peixoto roasts light to let the natural flavors come through. Their espresso leans bright and fruity. It tastes different because it is different. This is honey processed coffee from their own farm at Fazenda Sao Jose da Boa Vista in Minas Gerais.
The seasonal menu changes with intention. Right now you might find a Hot Honey Latte with cayenne that somehow works. Or a Kettle Corn creation that balances salt and sweet in ways that should not make sense but do. The Coconut Cold Brew returns every summer and people plan their visits around it. The Strawberry Pistachio gets layered in pink and cream and topped with freeze dried berries that crunch.
Behind the counter sit baristas who pull shots on equipment that matters. They do manual pour overs with gooseneck kettles. They understand extraction times and water temperature. When you watch them work you see people who actually know coffee instead of just following a recipe card.
The pastries come from local bakeries and rotate daily. Get there early if you want the almond croissants (buttery layers for days) or the cardamom buns on Tuesdays. The macarons are delicate enough to justify the price. Everything sells out because everything is actually good.
The crowd is a mix. College students claimed corners with laptops. Friends catch up at small tables. Someone in the back is on a video call. The vibe stays relaxed even when the line stretches. Music plays at a volume that lets you think (rare these days). You can sit outside along the street and watch downtown Chandler move past you.
This is the original location. The one that started it all in 2015 when Julia and Jeff Peixoto left corporate jobs to do something that mattered more. The space feels lived in now. Comfortable. A place that knows what it is and does not need to prove anything.
Parking can require patience during peak hours. The place fills up on weekends. But there is a parking garage nearby that makes it work. And honestly, once you taste what they are doing here, you stop caring about the walk.
This is what happens when a family decides their legacy matters more than scale. The farm connection is not a story they tell to sell coffee. It is the actual reason the coffee tastes this way. Worth the trip to downtown Chandler whether you stay for hours or just grab something perfect to go.
See also Peixoto Coffee Roaster' Gilbert location.
Number and Street:
11 W Boston St
What if your morning latte could fund a well in South Sudan or feed starving children? Mission Coffee and Tea opened in early 2025 at the Watermark development near Gilbert and Germann Roads in Chandler. This is a locally owned craft coffeehouse with a cause-driven mission that goes way beyond just selling coffee.
The space is modern and tranquil with an upstairs loft. It feels designed for lingering rather than rushing through. You can tell they want people to actually gather here.
I had a good conversation with Mr. Chip Stoecker (the General Manager). He has traveled extensively to study coffee around the world. Hearing about his trips to various coffee farms was genuinely interesting. The guy knows his stuff and clearly cares about the sourcing process.
Mission uses direct trade to acquire their beans. They work directly with growers without using large corporations or distributors. The farmers receive premium prices to support their workers and communities. The proceeds from coffee sales go toward local and global causes. They partner with Seeding Mercy (an organization building wells in South Sudan) and Feed My Starving Children (a group that prepares premixed food packages for starving kids worldwide). Every summer they collect water for cooling shelters around the community.
Look, this is not just marketing talk. They actually organize volunteer events and host gatherings around these causes. You can see upcoming events posted in the shop and on their website.
Now here is something nice. Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church holds worship services here every Sunday at 9AM. They also host a Ladies Bible Study and Book Review every Thursday morning. This might appeal to you or it might not. Just know that Mission Coffee leans into faith-based community in a way most coffee shops do not. All are welcome regardless of background but the church connection is part of their identity.
The coffee itself is solid. The beans are roasted by Clay and sometimes is sourced from Infusion Coffee which I also reviewed on this site. The focus is on quality drinks in a friendly atmosphere. I did not try a full range of their menu but the pour-over I had was fantastic.
They offer conference room rentals with AV hookups if you need space for meetings. They also host coffee education events (like "The Art of Coffee" workshops that cover origins, flavor, and brewing techniques).
Mission Coffee and Tea is not pretending to be something it is not. The cause-driven model is real. The direct trade relationships are genuine. The community gatherings actually happen. If you want solid coffee in a tranquil Chandler space and you appreciate knowing your money supports wells in South Sudan or food packages for starving kids, this place delivers. If the faith-based community angle does not appeal to you, that is fine too. The coffee stands on its own.
Checkout other fabulous East Valley coffee shops.
Number and Street:
2410 S Gilbert Rd C7
Cafe Cortez is the embodiment of a lifelong passion for coffee. Founded by third-generation Costa Rican coffee farmer Ron Cortez. This exceptional roastery and cafe is built on a "More Than Fair" principle, ensuring direct and ethical relationships with farmers while roasting some of the finest beans from around the world right in Tempe. The menu is a beautiful tribute to the craft, featuring a traditional Costa Rican "Vandola" pour-over that showcases the nuance and quality of their beans. Every drink, from a perfectly pulled espresso to a soulful latte, is crafted with expert care by passionate and knowledgeable baristas. The atmosphere is consistently described as magical and welcoming, making it a true hidden gem for those who want to experience coffee that is rich in both flavor and history.
Number and Street:
805 S Farmer Ave
Futuro is a coffee experience for the art lovers in Phoenix. Located inside the PALABRA gallery, this minimalist and cozy space serves incredible single origin espresso. Walking in feels like entering a space that exists somewhere between a gallery and a meditation room. The first thing that hits you is the whiteness (literally everything is white). The walls and the glowing ceiling create a stage for the coffee. The room refuses to compete with what actually matters.
The passion here is evident in how they source their beans. Futuro works exclusively with SEY Coffee, an acclaimed roaster out of Brooklyn and the choice says a lot about their standards. What truly sets them apart is that single origin is the star. The espresso is currently pulled from a Colombia Pink Bourbon (light roast) with notes of blueberry, hibiscus and pink lemonade. SEY sources these beans hand picked at peak ripeness and dry-fermented for 36 hours on raised beds until the moisture content hits exactly 10.5%. That level of care in the supply chain before a shot is even pulled is something. If you are a slow bar person, the current pour over option is a Peru grown at 1950 meters in the Sandia Valley with notes of apricot, lychee and pink lady apple. Both selections could change with the seasons but whatever SEY sends, you know it is going to be really good and Futuro will work with it well.
While the classic espresso is flawless, you absolutely must explore the inventive and Latin-inspired signature creations. I went for the "CAJETA" latte. It uses goat milk caramel that tastes like a deep, nostalgic memory (kind of like candy from childhood). It felt sophisticated. Then there is the "MAZAPAN de la Rosa" latte. Each drink on the focused menu is a curated creation. Nothing here feels like a novelty.
The presentation turns a simple order into a full ritual. Cups arrive on a wooden tray with a small glass of sparkling water and a card for tasting notes. You watch the baristas work with quiet focus and measured gestures. Some may not like the slower pace but I think those people miss the point. The slowness is the whole idea.
The design invites you to notice and to pause. It is not a spot for fast laptop turnover or large groups. This place respects the bean by treating every cup like it is a masterpiece. It weaves Mexican heritage into a modern specialty program without any fluff or pretense. I will say this plainly. I make my own espresso at home with Ethiopian natural beans and I am rarely outgunned. Futuro is one of the few places that genuinely has me beat. You leave feeling like you witnessed a performance. It is an essential Phoenix destination that stays with you long after the caffeine wears off.
βΆClick to View the Drink Menu
Note: Menu items are subject to change. Some items could be seasonal and may not be available.
Con CafeΓna
NEGRO single origin espresso β’ BLANCO single origin espresso β’ FILTRO single origin batch brew β’ COLD BREW single origin β’ TONICO single origin espresso, tonic water β’ LECHERA sweetened condensed milk, piloncillo β’ MAR iced americano, vanilla bean creme
Especiales/Signatures
ABEJA local raw honey β’ CAFΓ DE OLLA piloncillo, cinnamon, anise, citrus β’ CAJETA goat milk caramel, maldon sea salt β’ MAZAPAN de la rosa peanut candy, almond β’ MOCA stoneground cacao from guerrero, mΓ©xico
Sin CafeΓna
HORCHATA wild rice, almonds, cinnamon β’ JAMAICA hibiscus flowers, cinnamon
Con Alcohol
NIΓA FRESA paleta, strawberry, lime, mezcal β’ CARAJILLO licor 43, mole bitters, citrus
Tea & Botanicals
SNOW JASMINE green β’ ARBOR BAIMUDAN white β’ SHAN LIN oolong light β’ OLD GROVE HONEY ORCHID oolong dark β’ FIFTY EIGHT red β’ MARSHMALLOW botanical β’ HΕJICHA roasted green tea β’ MATCHA green tea
Milks & Flavors
Oat Milk β’ Goat Milk β’ Vanilla Bean Creme
Explore Top Phoenix Coffee Shops
All Coffee Shops in Phoenix
Moxie Coffee Co.
Indigo Room Coffee
Futuro
WeBe Coffee Roasters
The Coffee Builders
Daydreamer Coffee
Collective Coffee
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Check out nearby Dialog in Roosevelt Row Arts District or explore more fantastic coffee shops in Phoenix.
Number and Street:
909 N 1st St
Infusion Coffee and Tea Crafters is a serious player in Tempe. This place skips the trendy minimalist look. Its focus is on pure coffee power and knowledge. Infusion is far more than a cafe...it functions as a roastery, a training facility and a full coffee lab. This isn't your average coffee school. Infusion was the first Specialty Coffee Association (SCA Academy in the Americas). Roasters and baristas literally travel here from around the world to train, so you can trust your drink order will be executed perfectly. Here you will find emphasizes on direct trade sourcing and ethical practices as well as a commitment to high standards. Green coffee beans are roasted in-house to highlight the best flavor profiles. The slow bar is a coffee lover's dream. They specialize equally in unique teas and coffee. Try a ceremonial matcha affogato or one of their specialty lattes. You can grab whole beans to take home. The atmosphere is a beautiful mix. You'll find "bohemian eclecticism and rustic wood" throughout, creating a very calm vibe. It works as a great workspace, but be aware that parking and finding a seat can be a challenge during peak hours. For a bite, they offer sandwiches and snacks. The gluten-free bagel seems to be a popular hit. Expect high quality world-class coffee choices and the price reflects for some of these items. Just know that the investment in these specialty items reflects their premium sourcing and world-class experience compared to chain cafes. Find this knowledge hub at 1300 E 8th Street in Tempe.
More Great Coffee in Tempe
All Coffee Shops in Tempe
Aden Coffee House
Laymoon Cafe
The Cafe @ Regroup
Infusion Coffee & Tea Crafters
Coffee Shops Open Late
Find Late Night Coffee
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Number and Street:
1300 E 8th St
Old Town Scottsdale has no shortage of places to spend a Sunday afternoon. But there is only one where you might park next to a vintage Porsche, wait in a line that wraps around the building and sip an espresso under a massive shade tree while someone photographs an exotic car twenty feet away. Fourtillfour Cafe is that place and it is unlike anything else in the Valley.
The shop is small and there is no indoor seating. Everything happens outside on a patio that somehow pulls it off beautifully. Car themed decor sets the tone without feeling like a gimmick. The vibe is warm and welcoming in the way that only a place with genuine personality can be. If you get lucky and snag the table under the big tree on the right side next to the old parked car, you have found the best seat in the house. Plenty of shade and a front row view of whatever rolls in that day.
One suggestion though. That attached garage sitting right there is wasted potential. Arizona summers are brutal and the Valley heat is not a joke. Opening that space up with some air conditioning would transform this place from a cool spot you avoid in July into a year round destination. Just saying.
The coffee is the real thing. Fourtillfour roasts their own beans in house and pulls espresso from their Sunday Motor Club blend, a mix of Honduran and Ethiopian beans. I tried a straight shot and it was smooth and naturally sweet with no bitterness anywhere. My instinct, based on experience with Ethiopian beans, is that the blend leans more Ethiopian than Honduran. That is pure speculation on my part but the floral sweetness in the cup felt very familiar. The house made syrups are worth exploring too. Bergamot and chile honey are on the list and either one tells you this is not your average cafe syrup program.
The Cars and Coffee events happen almost every Saturday morning from 8AM to 10AM. Check their website for the current schedule because it is worth planning around. They also run a car club and from what I can tell it seems like a way to build a community of enthusiasts around specific makes and models, possibly used to organize themed events. The details are a little unclear but the online form is on their website if you want in.
Fourtillfour built a community around coffee, cars and the atmosphere. It was packed on a Sunday afternoon when I visited with the line stretching outside. That is not an accident.
πClick to View the Drink Menu
Note: Menu items are subject to change. Some items could be seasonal and may not be available.
Coffee
Drip β’ Espresso β’ Americano β’ Macchiato β’ Cappuccino β’ Latte β’ Coldbrew β’ Mocha
Drink Specials
Rosemary Caramel β’ Banana Bread β’ Rose Matcha
Extras
Matcha β’ Tea / Lemonade β’ Flavored Lemonade β’ Orange Juice
Organic Iced Teas
Hibiscus Cooler β’ Green Pomegranate β’ Matcha Green Tea β’ Passioinfruit Jasmine Black Tea β’ Masala Spiced Chai
Organic Hot Teas
Chamomile Lavender β’ Spearmint β’ Sencha Green Tea β’ Matcha Green Tea β’ English Breakfast β’ Earl Grey β’ Masala Spiced Chai
House Syrups
Vanilla β’ Caramel β’ Lavender β’ Bergamot β’ Rosemary β’ Chile Honey β’ Brown Sugar β’ Maple β’ Date
πClick to View the Food Menu
Note: Menu items are subject to change. Some items could be seasonal and may not be available.
Food
Yogurt Parfait w Granola Berries Coconut Nuts β’ Bagel (Plain CC β’ Garlic Feta Dill CC) β’ Toast Cinnamon
Breakfast Burritos
Bacon (Bacon, eggs, white cheddar cheese, potatoes, and chipotle aioli) β’ Chorizo vegetarian (Soyrizo, eggs, avocado, potatoes and chipotle aioli)
Burrito Add-ons
Chipotle Aioli β’ Avocado β’ White Cheddar β’ Side Salsa
Daily Pastries
Selection Varies Daily
Explore Scottsdale Coffee Favorites
Scottsdale Coffee Guide
Firefly Organic Coffee
Lux Max Annex
Curate Cafe
Tamosan Coffee Lounge
Village Coffee Roastery
Light Heart Coffee
Fourtillfour Cafe
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Number and Street:
7105 E 1st Ave
What makes a cup of coffee truly worth the trip? At Moxie Coffee it is the incredible in-house roasting program combined with a phenomenal menu. Their dedication shows in the extensive selection of single origin pour-overs. This rotating list will delight any connoisseur. You might find the complex fruit notes of a Colombian Pink Bourbon or the floral delicacy of an Ethiopian washed process. The execution is always flawless.
Non-coffee drinkers are treated with great respect here. The loose leaf tea program is stellar. Be sure to try the Yabukita Kabuse green tea or the Ichibancha Uji. The Oolong is fantastic too.
The shop is quite popular so the vibe is often lively. It is full of chatter rather than quiet. That energy is part of the charm. You might need a little patience with parking during peak times. Do not miss the signature NOLA Style Iced coffee. You should pair it with the phenomenal browned butter chocolate chip cookie. You will know it was absolutely worth the effort once you take that first bite. Moxie is a must-visit in Phoenix.
βΆClick to View the Drink Menu
Note: Menu items are subject to change. Some items could be seasonal and may not be available.
Coffee
Drip β’ Pour Over β’ Nitro Cold Brew β’ New Orleans Style Iced
Espresso
Espresso β’ Cortado β’ Cappuccino β’ Latte
Single Cup Pour Over
Letty Bermudez - Colombia β’ Granja Paraiso 92 - Colombia β’ Finca La Guaca - Colombia β’ El Eucalipto - Peru β’ Gesha Clouds - Natural Anaerobic Colombia β’ Maracay - Natural White Wine Fermentation Colombia β’ Termico - Thermic Honey Process Costa Rica β’ Ruthaka - Washed Kenya AA β’ La Virginia V1 - Washed Carbonic Maceration Colombia β’ Jardines del Eden - Washed Anaerobic Colombia β’ Hermanas Alvarado - Washed Honduras
Specialty Drinks
Eavesdropper β’ Switchgrass β’ Lefty β’ Rafah β’ Nola β’ Musa β’ A&W β’ Tonic β’ Vanilla Mint Nitro β’ Spiced Pear Latte β’ Ginger Beer Espresso Tonic β’ Spiced Cranberry & Juniper Berry Kombucha
Matcha
Shot β’ Cappuccino β’ Latte β’ Matchacano β’ Messie Tessie Cran-Mint Matcha
Tea
Seasonal Loose Tea β’ Chai Latte β’ Golden Turmeric Latte β’ Green - Yabukita Kabuse β’ Houjicha - Ichibancha Uji β’ Oolong - Da Hong Pao
Milks & Flavors
Almond Milk β’ Oat Milk β’ Madagascar Vanilla β’ SΓΌss Salted Caramel β’ SΓΌss Dark Chocolate β’ Coffee Blossom Honey
βΆClick to View the Food Menu
Note: Menu items are subject to change. Some items could be seasonal and may not be available.
Pastries
Assorted Seasonal Bites
Read my full Moxie Coffee ReviewΒ or head over to the curated local Phoenix coffee shops page.
Explore Top Phoenix Coffee Shops
All Coffee Shops in Phoenix
Moxie Coffee Co.
Indigo Room Coffee
Futuro
WeBe Coffee Roasters
The Coffee Builders
Daydreamer Coffee
Collective Coffee
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Number and Street:
4626 N 16th St Suite 101
What is third-wave coffee?
Manual Pour Over Techniques
Manual pour over brewing is arguably the best method for highlighting the delicate floral and fruity notes of light roasts. The Hario V60 offers a clean and crisp cup and is the most popular tool. It uses a cone shape to control water flow. The elegant Chemex utilizes ultra thick paper filters. These filters remove natural coffee oils for visual and flavor clarity. The flat bottom Kalita Wave promotes an even and consistent extraction across the entire coffee bed.
Light to Medium Roasts
I like to compare specialty coffee to a premium steak. You probably would never order an expensive cut of beef and ask the chef to cook it well done (or burn it). Roasting good coffee too dark ruins the delicate flavors hidden inside the beans. You completely lose the bright fruit notes and unique regional characteristics. This is exactly why the best roasters stick to light and medium profiles.
Bean Processing
I always look at the processing method. The two main styles are washed and natural (“honey” processing falls in between). Washed coffee is exactly what it sounds like. Farmers pick the coffee cherries and soak them in water for a set period. This soaking dissolves the fruit skin so it easily breaks away. With natural processing, farmers leave the whole cherries out in the sun for days or weeks. The sun slowly dries and breaks down the fruit. This second method brings out extra wild flavors that washed coffee simply cannot match. The slow fermentation under the sun forces those deep fruity notes to infuse directly into the bean.
Perfect Balance
I always look for shops that prioritize flavor balance over volume. You can usually tell a cafe values this ratio if they only offer one size for hot drinks. A barista extracts a precise amount of espresso for every cup. Adding too much milk to a massive cup would completely drown out the coffee. Offering a single size means you can expect the calibration to be absolutely perfect.
Single Origin
I love comparing single origin coffee to fine wine. The beans develop completely different flavors depending on their exact country and region of origin. Environmental factors change everything. Different soil, water, elevation and temperature contribute greatly to the final taste in your cup.
How I qualify a third wave coffee shop
I look for a few specific details when I visit a new cafe. The concepts below help me decide if a shop truly belongs on this list.
This section is under construction. Please check back soon.
Mission
Finding great coffee should be an inspiring experience. My name is Ozzy and I personally vet and curate the best independent coffee shops and roasters across Arizona to make finding the perfect coffee shop easier.
Arizona Coffee Directory
info@azcoffeeshops.com
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