Best Coffee Shops in Tempe, AZ: Where to Grab Your Perfect Brew

By: Menandro Bacalangco Jr. | January 13, 2026

Coffee shop scene in Tempe, AZ. Outdoor seating with drinks and pastries on a table. Mountains and city buildings in the background.

Best Coffee Shops in Tempe, AZ: Top Cafés & Local Favorites

Tempe, Arizona, is home to a vibrant coffee culture, blending local charm with specialty coffee experiences. Whether you’re a student at ASU, a remote worker, or simply a coffee lover exploring Mill Avenue, these coffee shops offer everything from expertly crafted espresso to cozy spaces perfect for working or catching up with friends.

Here’s our curated list of the top 7 coffee shops in Tempe, including fan favorites like Xtreme Bean, Aruma Cafe, and Cartel Roasting.

1. Xtreme Bean Coffee - A Local Favorite with Multiple Locations

Exterior of coffee shop with red sign, gray facade, and a person seated outside.

Xtreme Bean has become a staple for Tempe locals, offering high-quality espresso, specialty coffee drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for students and remote workers alike. With multiple locations across Tempe, it’s easy to find your go-to spot for a morning brew or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Friendly staff and comfortable seating for work or study
Signature drinks that highlight their house blend
Community events and seasonal specials

Xtreme Bean remains one of the most loved coffee shops in Tempe, perfect for both quick stops and longer stays.

2. Aruma Cafe - Specialty Coffee and Relaxed Vibes

Interior of a cafe with people at the bar, overhead lights, a concrete wall, and cacti decor.

Aruma Cafe is known for its specialty coffee menu, from carefully brewed espresso to unique tea blends. Nestled in Tempe’s bustling streets, it offers a quiet space ideal for work or reading.

Wide variety of coffee drinks and teas
Regular events showcasing local talent and music
Cozy ambiance for studying or casual meetups

Aruma Cafe delivers a serene coffee experience while keeping specialty drinks at the forefront.

3. Cartel Roasting - Tempe’s Coffee Lab for True Coffee Lovers

Exterior of Cartel Coffee Lab, storefront with large windows and a small seating counter.

Cartel Roasting, sometimes referred to as Cartel Coffee Lab, is a haven for specialty coffee aficionados. Known for its high-quality beans and precise brewing methods, it’s a must-visit for those who appreciate a perfect cup.

Freshly roasted beans are available for purchase
Espresso, pour-over, and cold brew options
Reserve coffees for those seeking something unique

For a true specialty coffee experience in Tempe, Cartel Roasting is unmatched.

4. Press Coffee - Modern Cafe with a Focus on Craft

Interior of a cafe with concrete tables, wooden chairs, and large windows. The ceiling is black.

With multiple locations in Tempe, Press Coffee has earned a reputation for its smooth espresso, cold brews, and welcoming cafe spaces. Their commitment to quality beans and creative drinks keeps coffee lovers coming back.

Signature drinks and seasonal blends
Comfortable seating is perfect for remote work
Community-focused events and promotions

Press Coffee combines great coffee with a productive cafe environment, ideal for both study and relaxation.

5. Buzzed Goat Coffee Shop - Lively Spot for Social Coffee Moments

Buzzed Goat Coffee Shop is a casual, friendly café with a variety of coffee drinks and teas. Its lively atmosphere makes it perfect for catching up with friends or grabbing a quick espresso on the go.

Specialty coffee drinks alongside classic favorites
Community events and local meetups
Convenient Mill Avenue location

Buzzed Goat Coffee Shop offers both quality coffee and a social space for Tempe locals.

6. Cafetal Coffee - Authentic Espresso and Local Flavor

Coffee shop interior with bar, espresso machine, botanical mural, and hanging lights.

Cafetal Coffee is a cozy cafe in Tempe offering a rich selection of espresso, specialty drinks, and fresh pastries. Known for its warm service, it’s a go-to spot for a relaxed morning or afternoon coffee break.

Fresh beans roasted for optimal flavor
Espresso drinks and cold brew options
Small events highlighting local culture

Cafetal Coffee is perfect for coffee lovers seeking both quality drinks and a welcoming cafe experience.

7. Xanadu Coffee - Unique Drinks in a Comfortable Setting

Xanadu Coffee Company sign and building exterior. Black sign, gray building, string lights, patio seating.

Xanadu Coffee brings specialty coffee and tea to Tempe with a focus on high-quality brews and community engagement. Their innovative drinks and inviting cafe make it a must-visit.

Espresso, tea, and specialty coffee drinks
Events and tasting sessions for coffee enthusiasts
Ideal space for work or casual meetups

Xanadu Coffee offers a creative twist on Tempe’s coffee scene, ideal for trying something new.

Final Thoughts

Tempe’s coffee culture blends specialty brews and inviting café vibes across the city. From Xtreme Bean and Aruma Cafe to Cartel Roasting and Press Coffee, there’s no shortage of great spots to work, study, or relax. Between cups, explore nearby things to do in Tempe, AZ, from Mill Avenue and ASU to Tempe Town Lake. For a comfortable stay, luxury vacation rentals in Tempe place you close to top attractions and the city’s vibrant café scene.