As a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast, my love for the beverage began at the tender age of 10 when I would sip on Mexican instant coffee with my grandmother on lazy afternoons, usually accompanied by a delicious concha. Fast forward a few years and I found myself working as a barista for three years while pursuing my studies in Sacramento. With a deep passion for coffee and a thirst for exploration, I set out to discover the best coffee shops both near campus and throughout the city. Join me on my journey as I explore and share my experiences with the finest coffee shops that Sacramento has to offer.

1. Temple Coffee Roasters

Luisangel’s rating:★★★★★

Temple Coffee should be at the top of your list. As a pioneer of third-wave coffee, this iconic coffee shop has multiple locations throughout downtown Sacramento. And the best part? Even if you don’t live in the area, you can still enjoy their premium beans through their coffee club, which delivers across the United States.

Pretty much everyone has heard about Temple and I feel it is everyone’s go-to spot since its long hours make it a good spot for college students to go study. This might just be me, but I feel like Temple always attracts hot medical students in the area to go study for long periods of time. For college students looking for a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of coffee, the Temple Coffee location on S Street is the perfect spot. 

Indulge in a warm, cozy atmosphere as you sip on a drip coffee or one of Temple Coffee’s daily-roasted specialty drinks, surrounded by brick walls, wooden shelves and plenty of greenery. And to top it all off, be sure to treat yourself to one of their delectable vegan and gluten-free donuts for the ultimate coffee shop experience.

My favorite location is at 2829 S St. in Sacramento. 

2. Milka Coffee Roasters

Luisangel’s rating:★★★★★

If you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy some delicious coffee while studying or unwinding, Milka Coffee Roasters should definitely be on your list. In my opinion, it’s the best option out of all the cafes I’ve visited. The interior of the coffee shop is simply stunning and it feels like you’re in a beautiful Victorian home rather than a cafe. Moreover, Milka Coffee Roasters frequently changes their specialty drink menu with a unique blend of flavors that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Located in the heart of downtown Sacramento, Milka Coffee Roasters is a relatively new addition to the local coffee scene. The cafe is situated inside a gorgeous white Victorian house and offers a spacious and tranquil environment that is perfect for some quiet reflection. The coffee shop is named after the founder’s great-grandmother Milka Radonich, a former small business owner in Sacramento.

The founder, Samir Benouar, drew inspiration from his years of experience working behind espresso machines in New York, San Francisco and his hometown of Sacramento. His dedication to coffee extends beyond just roasting and is evident in the way Milka Coffee Roasters prepares and serves its coffee. 

If you prefer to soak up some rays of sunshine while enjoying your coffee, Milka Coffee Roasters also offers a terrace where you can bask in the warmth of the sun during the warmer months. Overall, Milka Coffee Roasters provides a serene and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for coffee lovers to relax and savor a cup of their favorite brew.

Luisangel’s favorite is at 1501 G St. in Sacramento.

3. The Mill

Luisangel’s rating:★★★★☆

Located conveniently near the entranceway and right next to the Sacramento State pedestrian tunnel leading to the American River Bike Trail, The Mill is a bright and lively cafe that is definitely worth a visit. The Elvas Cafe location provides the perfect respite for those seeking a quick refreshment during a busy day or for those who want to linger in the fresh air and sunshine.

With its cozy little royal blue shop reminiscent of San Francisco cafes, The Mill offers a delightful ambiance to enjoy a cup of coffee. The vanilla bean latte is the star of the menu, perfectly blending quality espresso with just the right amount of sweetness. You can definitely taste the quality of their espresso in every sip.

But that’s not all – their breakfast options are also a must-try. The waffles are especially delicious and perfect for those who prefer a light breakfast. Overall, The Mill is a great spot to unwind and enjoy some quality coffee and breakfast treats.

Right by the tunnel! 6423 Elvas Ave. in Sacramento.

4. Scorpio Coffee

Luisangel’s rating:★★★★★

Scorpio Coffee is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates Japanese-style aesthetics and modern design. This coffee spot boasts a clean and sleek space that is perfect for those Instagram-worthy photo dumps you’ve been meaning to post. It’s no wonder that Scorpio Coffee is a favorite among Sacramento’s cool and hip locals, thanks to its laidback and welcoming vibe.

But it’s not just the ambiance that makes Scorpio Coffee special – their coffee options and combinations are simply outstanding. Whenever I go there, I make sure to order their espresso tonic. This drink is a delightful mix of the bitterness of the tonic water that perfectly balances out the natural acidity of the espresso. The result is a bright, citrusy flavor that is both refreshing and sweet enough for your enjoyment.

Moreover, every drink at Scorpio Coffee is beautifully presented, showcasing the cafe’s commitment to quality and attention to detail. Scorpio Coffee is a great place to relax and savor some truly delicious coffee while soaking up the cool and laid-back vibes.

For all my sexy Scorpios out there, see you at  1905 16th St. in Sacramento.

5. Pachamama Coffee

Luisangel’s rating:★★★★☆

Pachamama is a coffee shop with a unique approach to business, focusing on social consciousness and sustainability in their sourcing practices. What sets them apart is that their business is owned by a global community of farmers, with a strong presence in South America. Pachamama prioritizes people and the planet, making it a great choice for those who want to support a responsible and ethical coffee shop.

My experience at Pachamama was amazing, and I couldn’t resist buying their cute Pachama puppy merch. As a fan of citrusy coffee, I was thrilled with their selection of blends. The Nicaragua blend, in particular, stood out with its notes of lemon, grapefruit and kumquat. You can taste the quality of their fair trade beans in every sip.

Overall, Pachamama is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while supporting a good cause. They are a shining example of how businesses can prioritize sustainability and social responsibility while still delivering exceptional products.

Support fair-trade beans coffee at 3644 J St. in Sacramento.

6. Tupelo Coffee & Roasting 

Luisangel’s rating:★★★★☆

Tupelo Coffee & Roasting is the perfect coffee shop for Sac State students looking for a quick caffeine fix. It’s conveniently located near campus, making it the closest coffee shop for students to grab a cup of coffee. The interior is filled with absorbing artwork and offers plenty of comfortable seating options perfect for studying with friends.

What sets Tupelo apart is their dog-friendly policy, allowing you to bring your furry friend along for a coffee break. However, the high up-charge for alternative milks may be a deal breaker for some. Despite the price, the quality of the coffee is definitely worth it.

Tupelo Coffee & Roasting is located at 5700 Elvas Ave., only a half-mile from campus.