On a chilly winter morning in downtown Aiken, there’s no better way to start the day than by stepping into one of the cozy coffee shops that line the charming streets. Here are some of our favorites, each unique and special!
New Moon Cafe
A long-time fixture on Laurens Street, New Moon Cafe is the quintessential quirky cramped and cozy coffee shop. Known for its rich house-roasted beans and homemade pastries, it’s a favorite locals' spot for grabbing breakfast or lunch to go or meeting a friend. I'm from Seattle, the birthplace of the quirky independent coffee shop (and yes... home to some famous large chains as well!). The first time I set foot inside New Moon Cafe, I thought I had returned to the motherland!
Gotta Try: In the warmer months, I especially love their Green Monster Smoothie for a tasty breakfast to go and the fresh made gazpacho for lunch.
Polo Grounds Cafe
Located on Barnwell, Polo Grounds has quickly become my go-to for meeting a friend for a tasty breakfast and top-notch coffee. The walk to the door through the owner Jeremy's beautiful garden sets the tone for a relaxing, unhurried cuppa. Lucky guests staying at the Newberry Apartments or the Downtown Aiken Nest will be less than a block away! Be forewarned -- they are closed Mondays & Tuesdays.
Gotta Try: Everything is wonderful, but my favorites are the veggie bagel sandwich, or the Healthy Horse parfait with the house-made passionfruit curd, or any of their fabulous crepe creations!
La Parisienne
A delightful ambience, truly tasty coffee, and French pastries... you'll experience a little bit of Paris right downtown on Chesterfield. In the spring, the outdoor seating is where you want to be to enjoy the cascading jasmine that climbs the arbor trellis. Heavenly!
Gotta Try: I'm reliably a sucker for a chocolate croissant, and the drip coffee here is so good I never feel tempted to splurge on an espresso drink.
Union Station Coffee on Park
Near the train station/visitor's center, the aptly named Union Station Coffee prides itself on high-quality espresso drinks and Greek pastries. Big comfy couches and squishy chairs encourage lingering, savoring, and socializing!
Gotta Try: Their baklava (if they're not out!) and a latte is the perfect decadent afternoon treat!
Staying in at your Aiken Vacation Rentals Property!
I couldn't resist... but sometime the coziest way to enjoy the perfect cup of coffee is in your PJs at home! As coffee lovers, we know the necessity of good coffee first thing in the morning! All of our properties have a coffee maker and/or Keurig, and some have a French Press and electric kettle as well, in case you are one of those crazy tea drinkers. We don't judge (much). You'll find creamers, sugar, and sweeteners, and enough coffee for at least a few mornings in when you stay at one of our Aiken Vacation Rentals homes.
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