Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books is the destination for folks in Northwest Philly (and beyond) who are looking for books written by people of color, and the wide selection on offer — for adults, teens, and kids — is inspiring. While browsing the shelves, customers can grab drip coffee, espresso, specialty lattes, and lemonades, plus baked goods from Au Fournil and Crust Vegan Bakery.

There’s the original Ultimo shop in Point Breeze, plus locations in Graduate Hospital, Germantown, and Rittenhouse, the latter being home to a custom powder-coated espresso machine. That machine isn’t just for looks — these coffee experts know how to pull a shot, and are among the best-trained baristas in the city. Pre-order online for pickup.

Thu Pham has been roasting her specialty Vietnamese coffee to sell wholesale on J Street for over three years, but her full-service cafe was always the goal. There, coffee drinkers can indulge in strong Vietnamese lattes and co-work in a lovely space, while also ordering banh mi, breakfast sandwiches, and all kinds of magnificent lunch options, helmed by Jacob Trinh of Trinh Eats.

The “CPG” in The Ground CPG stands for coffee, plants, and gifts — and that’s exactly what’s blooming at this beloved coffee shop near Norris Square at the Gotham. Pistachio mochas served with creamy cocoa is one of the fabulous options they have on their menu.

Self-proclaimed as the city’s “first dog-friendly coffee shop,” this popular spot on Frankford Avenue is a hit with people and puppies alike. All shots are double at this shop as they serve Bean2Bean coffee for those who love to sip and watch their dogs frolic.

La Colombe is an institution, arguably the current godfather of Philly coffee. There’s no escaping their reputation as one of the most sought out coffee spots in the region with their massive selection of expressos, lattes, macchiatos, and various cold brews. Their sweet chai latte is perfection in a cup — or can if one can’t get enough at their shop alone,

After starting out as a coffee pop-up during the pandemic, Persimmon Coffee finally opened a brick-and-mortar in June of 2022. The space is calming and intimate, and the specialty drinks — like the seasonal Foolish Tiger, made with espresso, homemade persimmon and ginger syrup, cinnamon, black walnut bitters, maple syrup, and steamed oat milk — are delicious and inventive.

Fairmount Avenue hasn’t been the same with this lively cafe that encourages guests to “come sit long and talk much.” With featured drink specials (such as a delicious white chocolate mocha with whipped cream and a caramel drizzle), there’s no reason to make this a one-time stop.

Opened by an Elixr and Bodhi Coffee alum in 2014, this airy-yet-cozy cafe serves Dogwood Coffee out of Minneapolis to adoring fans in Old City. It’s an outpost of good java in the tourist zone, and locals flock there for chill vibes and good sandwiches. You can preorder online.

Center City oasis Elixr is still kicking out some of the best pour overs in the city. The original shop on Sydenham Street is a go-to spot for high-quality cups. Find a stunner of a second shop, complete with an onsite roastery, in Callowhill, and a third location at 16th and Market. Order online for pickup.

Sustainability and responsible sourcing are the buzz at Greenstreet, a cozy and funky roaster that goes to great lengths to secure the most ethical beans directly from producers. All that work and care translates to some of the best cups Philadelphia has to offer and should be on every coffeehead’s list. Even the shop’s website is thoughtful, offering useful how-tos and tips. There are two locations — one in Washington Square West and one in Point Breeze.