Tucked away in the pines of northern Arizona, where the air is thin and the coffee needs to be strong, Flagstaff has quietly become a caffeine junkie’s paradise. Whether you’re a local whose blood type is espresso or a tourist looking to fuel up before plunging into the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff’s coffee scene is ready to wake you up.
So buckle up, buttercup. We’re about to dive into the top 5 coffee shops that’ll make you forget all about that chain with the green mermaid.
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Reddit’s Favorites: Top 5 Coffee Shops in Flagstaff
Before I dive into my personal experiences and other research, I thought it’d be fun to kick things off with what the online community has to say. I spent way too many hours (don’t tell my boss) digging through Reddit threads to see which coffee shops in Flagstaff kept popping up.
Here are the top 5 coffee shops in Flagstaff, based on how many times they were mentioned by different Reddit users:
- Lund Canyon Coffee (6 votes)
- Matador Coffee (5 votes)
- Firecreek Coffee (5 votes)
- Late for the Train (4 votes)
- Kickstand Kafe (3 votes)
My Research Methodology
Look, I’m a bit of a coffee nerd, and I wanted to make sure I wasn’t just pushing my personal favorites on you. So I went a little overboard with research (my friends think I’m crazy, but whatever). I dove into Yelp reviews, scrolled through endless TripAdvisor ratings, and even got sucked into some heated Reddit debates about the best brews in town.
At least now I can say this list isn’t just my dumb opinion – it’s backed by some serious bean-counting! Now, let’s explore the top 5 coffee shops that have risen to the top of our research:
1. Lund Canyon Coffee
Lund Canyon Coffee brings a touch of European sophistication to Flagstaff. Run by a father and sons team with extensive experience from living in Europe, this local coffee shop has quickly become one of the city’s most beloved spots. With 6 votes from unique Reddit users, it tops our list as Flagstaff’s favorite coffee destination.
Pros
- European-inspired coffee expertise
- Welcoming atmosphere for all coffee lovers
- Expertly crafted espresso drinks
Cons
- Limited seating during peak hours
- Parking can be challenging in the downtown area
Location: 3 S Mikes Pike St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Web/Social: @lundcanyoncoffee
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-6pm, Saturday-Sunday 8am-6pm
2. Matador Coffee
Matador Coffee has made a name for itself with its commitment to quality. Known for roasting their specialty beans in small batches, Matador ensures that every cup is a testament to their dedication to the craft. This attention to detail has earned them 5 votes from unique Reddit users, tying for second place in our community rankings.
Pros
- House-roasted beans ensuring freshness
- Variety of brewing methods available
- Knowledgeable staff passionate about coffee
Cons
- Can be busy and noisy during rush hours
- Limited food options compared to some competitors
Location: 203 S Milton Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: www.matadorcoffee.com
Hours: Monday-Sunday 6am-7pm
3. Firecreek Coffee
Firecreek Coffee has established itself as more than just a coffee house – it’s a community hub. This local gem offers a space where great coffee and social connection go hand in hand. With 5 mentions from Reddit users, Firecreek ties for second place in our community-driven rankings.
Pros
- Strong community focus with regular events
- Rotating selection of unique coffee blends
- Spacious interior great for working or studying
Cons
- Can be crowded during events
- Some find the prices slightly higher than average
Location: 22 E Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: www.firecreekcoffee.com
Hours: Monday-Sunday 7am-7pm
4. Late for the Train
Late for the Train has been a cornerstone of Flagstaff’s coffee scene since 1993. This beloved spot has stood the test of time, continuing to serve up some of the best coffee in town. With 4 mentions on Reddit, it secures the fourth spot in our rankings.
Pros
- Long-standing reputation for quality
- In-house roasting for maximum freshness
- Excellent cold brew options
Cons
- Limited seating in some locations
- Menu may not change as frequently as some newer shops
Location: 19 E Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: www.lateforthetrain.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 6am-6pm, Saturday-Sunday 7am-6pm
5. Kickstand Kafe
Kickstand Kafe is a unique spot that combines a love for coffee with a passion for cycling. This local coffee shop has carved out a niche for itself in Flagstaff’s vibrant coffee landscape. With 3 Reddit mentions, it rounds out our top 5 list.
Pros
- Unique cycling-themed atmosphere
- Dog-friendly patio
- Great for quick coffee stops or leisurely breaks
Cons
- Smaller space compared to some other coffee shops
- Limited parking in the immediate area
Location: 719 N Humphreys St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Website: www.kickstandkafe.com
Hours: Monday-Sunday 7am-5pm
The Flagstaff Coffee Experience
You know what really makes Flagstaff’s coffee scene pop? It’s all about community. These aren’t just places to grab a quick cup – they’re local hangouts where you’ll often bump into friends or make new ones.
Most of these spots are big on supporting local, either getting their beans from nearby roasters or doing it themselves in-house. It’s pretty cool to sip on a latte and know the beans might’ve been roasted just a few feet away.
Whether you’re a hardcore coffee nerd or just looking for a chill place to relax, Flagstaff’s got you covered. From spots that feel like they’ve been plucked straight out of Europe to laid-back joints where you can talk bikes and brews, there’s a little something for everyone.
So next time you’re in Flag, do yourself a favor and check out one (or all) of these spots. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite coffee shop. And hey, don’t forget to bring a friend – coffee’s always better when it’s shared, right?
