Five Indy Coffee Destinations You Can’t Miss

Sip, Savor, and Kick Back at One of These must-try Coffee Shops in Indianapolis

I set out on a mission to find the best cup of joe in Indianapolis and let me tell you the competition in Indy is stiff. Here are a few of our favorites for you to check out: 

The Casa Blanca Latte from Mansion Society

My first stop is housed within the historic Central State Mansion. The door reads “una mansión para todos,” which both underscores the message nicely and points to the fact that it’s Latina-owned.

I ordered a decadent Casa Blanca latte, which combined spiced banana-nut-bread and mocha flavors. The Instagram-worthy mid-century chic decor, with a Frida Kahlo throw pillow, mosaic tile floor, and houseplants everywhere, make it a perfect study spot.

The Rose Syrup Iced Latte from Blue Mind Coffee

I strolled in on a Friday morning. The cafe was bright, airy, and had immaculate vibes. The barista preparing my drink wore board shorts, a Van’s t-shirt, and a corduroy hat which was on brand for Blue Mind Coffee.

The place was packed, and I soon learned why: I ordered a rose syrup iced latte. I’m a sucker for a good floral coffee, but I can say without exaggeration, this was the best I’ve ever had. The way the java blended with the more delicate, florid notes showcased the utmost care they take to prepare a flawless drink.

The Almond Croissant from Neidhammer 

I popped into Neidhammer last. I ordered the lavender vanilla latte, hoping to recreate the flower-power java bliss I experienced at Blue Mind. I paired my drink with the crispy, buttery almond croissant, which was to die for. 

Another plus is that Neidhammer has room to spread out. The spacious yet intimate atmosphere, featuring white-washed brick walls and Edison lights, makes it a great spot for productivity, with affordable prices to boot.

To solidify my caffeine-powered thoughts on coffee, I needed an expert to weigh in. So, I swung by a “Coffee Brewing 101” class offered at the Michigan Road branch of the public library. Scott Soltys-Curry, an industry expert who founded The Indianapolis Coffee Guide, led the free seminar.

Despite his credentials, Soltys-Curry doesn’t consider himself a coffee expert. 

“I definitely consider myself a professional coffee customer,” he quipped to open the class. 

But as he expounded on the merits of the Aeropress, burr grinders, and the supply chain of local roasters, he could’ve fooled me. I marveled at his knowledge of the production process as he described how Tinker, a local roaster, uses single-source, ethical trade practices. These are the people defining the Indianapolis coffee scene, which is alive and well, even for home brewers. 

“People always ask me what my favorite drink is,” Soltys-Curry said. “That doesn’t matter…ultimately, we all have different tastes. Coffee is very personal.”

That’s all the permission I needed. I’m free to use whichever rating system suits my mood.

We will do our best not to judge if you still occasionally stop by Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, or mid-tier corporate coffee shops. But if you choose a basic coffee from a boring chain despite Indianapolis’ multitude of options, it’s your loss. 

Honorable mentions: 

Tinker: I picked up a cup of Ethiopian drip-coffee at the airport. What can I say? They’re Indy’s most popular roasters for a reason. Their cafe is no different.

Coat Check Coffee: Nestled in the iconic downtown Athenaeum, their sales also support creative programming and community services. That makes me feel all warm and fuzzy.