It seems like Central Florida continues to explode with more and more options to get caffeinated. These local coffee spots share one thing in common: they took the risk of opening during the pandemic, so if you find yourself in the area, check them out and show them some love.

Totally Coffee - Orlando

Where is it: This mobile coffee cart currently pop-ups around Orlando, but very soon, owner Amanda will have a dedicated spot in Ivanhoe Village.

What makes it a great spot: Not only is the coffee good, but there’s usually a fun topping to some of her drinks that are often an homage to the 90s, which is the theme of the coffee experience. In addition to lattes and cold brew, you can usually find a homemade treat also to grab that comes straight from your childhood after-school snack time. 

Address + Hours: For now, follow the IG page to see where the pop-up cart will be next and when the permanent spot will open.

The Monroe - Downtown Orlando

Where is it: The coffee bar is located inside the Monroe lounge area in the downtown area. There is plenty of paid street parking on both Terry and Amelia.

What makes it a great spot: The Monroe is one of Orlando’s most beautiful restaurants, but if you can’t afford a night out there to eat, you can still enjoy the ambiance for a morning coffee. When you walk into the space to your right, you will notice the coffee bar that utilizes Counter Culture Coffee in its drinks. Pictured below is the Root Beer latte, which was honestly really good. In addition, you get to enjoy the lounge area, and I've spotted small groups of people using this as a place to work to get a break from their home office.

Address + Hours: 448 N Terry Ave, Orlando, FL 32801 - Closed Monday and then Open daily from 8AM - 4 PM

Propagate Social House - Apopka

Where is it: Located in Downtown Apopka on 5th Street, you’ll find Propagate at the end of a small strip center. 

What makes it a great spot: This spot is owned by two couples who are friends and entrepreneurs with a deep love of coffee. Beyond coffee, this spot lives up to its title of a social house being open late for wine and lite bites, live music, events, and local food pop-ups.

Address + Hours: 40 E. 5th. Street Apopka, FL. 32703 - Monday - Tuesday Closed Wednesday 7-9 Thursday 7-1 Friday 7-9 Saturday 10-9 Sunday 10-4

Birchwood Coffee - Apopka

Where it is: Over in Apopka inside the Wekiva Riverwalk Shopping Center off 436.  

What makes it a great spot: This female-owned spot is a family-run cafe owned by Danielle Bjork, where she brings different coffees (some local) to the forefront, along with Southern-style menu items, many of which are family recipes. Make sure to try their homemade syrups, including the Birchwood syrup. The shop has a warm and calming presence and hosts events for the community, including latte art classes.  

Address + Hours: 2107 E Semoran Blvd D, Apopka, FL 32703 - Closed Sunday and Monday 8:30 AM every other day.

Edge Coffee - Mt. Dora

Where is it: In downtown Mt. Dora in the former home of the Magical Meat Boutique. 

What makes it a great spot: This shop's home base is in the UK, with the first US location finding its home in the historic area of Mt. Dora. The branding seems a little dark yet whimsical, with an alien and UFO luring you to an otherworldly coffee experience. However, what I enjoyed the most on my visit was how friendly the baristas were and the huge expansive patio for outdoor seating.

Address + Hours: 112 W 3rd Ave, Mt Dora, FL 32757 - Open daily from 8 AM - 5 PM.

Nautilus Coffee Co. - Tavares

Where it is: Located in downtown Tavares, this spot is tucked in between the many municipal buildings but close to the waterfront of Lake Dora. 

What makes it a great spot: This newly opened female-owned shop relies on its theme of a fictional family that traveled in the 1800s to find the world's best coffee. The decor and detail carry on that story and give you a setting that is a break from the overly Pinterest-looking coffee shop. The coffee is delicious, and there are plans to add other elements to the menu for late nights.  

Address + Hours: 130 W Ruby St, Tavares, FL 32778 - They are still in their soft opening, so they are currently open Friday 7:30 AM - 3 PM. Saturday 8 AM - 3 PM, Sunday 8 AM - 3 PM.

Three Birds Cafe - Winter Garden

Where is it: Located in Downtown Winter Garden, you can’t miss this location front and center on Plant Street. The bright cafe took over an old restaurant space and is right on the corner of Plant and Boyd.  

What makes it a great spot: The space is open, warm, and inviting with indoor and outdoor seating and bar seating at the windows so you can watch the bustle of downtown Winter Garden while you are there. The coffee is locally sourced from Trilogy Coffee in Deland, and you’ll always find a seasonal option on the menu. In addition, it’s a full-service restaurant, so if you choose to turn your coffee date into a meal, you don’t have to leave the comfort of the cafe. 

Address + Hours: 2 W Plant Street Winter Garden, FL 34787- Open Daily at 7:30 am CLOSED Mondays

Cafe Barista - Kissimmee

Where it is:  Located in downtown Kissimmee, you might drive right past it like I did the first time. It’s at the bottom of a large building next to the Osceola County Government building. The best place to park is actually on the street behind it, W. Bryan Street.

What makes it a great spot: It’s a beautiful space with modern decor, and its location lends it to be a quiet spot for work and studying. They also use Onyx Coffee which means every latte is going to be good. As a Hispanic-owned cafe, you’ll be able to get your hands on a few items like quesitos along with toasts, waffles, and other food items. 

Address + Hours: 530 W Emmett St, Kissimmee, FL 34741 -Sunday closed Monday - Friday 8AM - 3PM, Saturday 9AM -2PM

Quigley Coffee Co. - Sanford

Where it is:  Located in Sanford, before you hit the historic downtown area, you’ll find Quigley as an addition to Thrift on 46. It has its own entrance, but once you are inside, you can walk through the rest of the thrift store if you wish. Otherwise, there is ample seating inside surrounded by a colorfully decorated area. 

What makes it a great spot:  The coffee is excellent (try the Florida Boi when you go), and you can’t help but feel happy in the environment that husband and wife team Michael and Miranda put together with the help of their friends.

Address + Hours: 3424 W SR46 | SANFORD, FL 32773 TUESDAY–SATURDAY 7AM TO 3PM

Golden Hill Coffee Roasters - Clermont

Where it is: Located inside the Montrose Street Market in downtown Clermont.

What makes it a great spot: Downtown Clermont has been trying to amplify its food and beverage scene, and Golden Hills is no stranger to the coffee game. They’ve been roasting and wholesaling coffee for over ten years, and now they get to have their very own spot in the city’s only food hall. You can try their signature Florida cold brew or espresso-based drinks. 

Address + Hours: 793 West Montrose Street, Clermont, FL -  Open every day at 7:30 AM 

All photos are property of LemonHearted Creative.