Top 10 Memphis Spots for Afternoon Coffee You Can Trust

Memphis isn’t just the birthplace of blues and barbecue—it’s also home to a quiet but thriving coffee culture that thrives in the golden hours of the afternoon. Whether you’re a local seeking your third cup of the day, a visitor escaping the midday heat, or a remote worker searching for the perfect ambiance, finding a trustworthy coffee spot matters. Not every café with a trendy sign or Instagrammable latte art delivers on quality, consistency, or character. In a city where tradition meets innovation, the best afternoon coffee experiences come from places that prioritize beans, baristas, and atmosphere over gimmicks. This guide reveals the top 10 Memphis spots for afternoon coffee you can truly trust—vetted for roast integrity, service reliability, and the kind of warmth that turns a simple cup into a ritual.

Why Trust Matters

In a world saturated with coffee chains and fleeting trends, trust becomes the quiet currency of a great coffee experience. When you sit down for an afternoon cup in Memphis, you’re not just ordering a beverage—you’re investing time, energy, and often, a slice of your day. Trust means knowing the beans are freshly roasted, the water is filtered properly, the milk is steamed with care, and the person behind the counter remembers your name—or at least your usual order. It means the chairs aren’t wobbly, the Wi-Fi actually works, and the lights don’t flicker when you’re trying to finish a report.

Trust is built over time. It’s the result of consistent quality, transparency in sourcing, and a commitment to community. A trustworthy coffee spot doesn’t need a million followers or a viral TikTok video. It needs loyal regulars who return week after week because they know what to expect—and they get more than they expected. In Memphis, where hospitality is woven into the city’s DNA, the best coffee shops understand this. They don’t chase trends; they cultivate relationships.

Many visitors assume the best coffee comes from big-name chains or imported roasters. But in Memphis, some of the most reliable and soulful cups come from small, family-run operations tucked into historic neighborhoods, repurposed warehouses, or quiet corners of local markets. These are the places where baristas take pride in their craft, where the espresso machine has a name, and where the aroma of roasting beans is as much a part of the landscape as the Mississippi River.

When we say “you can trust,” we mean it. These ten spots have been selected not just for their coffee quality, but for their consistency, community presence, and commitment to excellence over hype. Each has stood the test of time, weathered seasonal changes, and remained a steady presence for locals who rely on them for more than caffeine—they rely on them for calm, connection, and clarity in the middle of the day.

Top 10 Memphis Spots for Afternoon Coffee

1. The Roasted Bean

Established in 1998, The Roasted Bean isn’t just a café—it’s a Memphis institution. Located in the heart of Midtown, this spot has become a sanctuary for writers, students, and professionals seeking a quiet, unpretentious afternoon escape. The Roasted Bean roasts its own beans on-site, using a small-batch, slow-roast method that preserves the nuanced flavors of single-origin beans from Ethiopia, Colombia, and Guatemala. Their afternoon menu features a rotating pour-over selection, cold brew on tap, and house-made pastries baked daily by a local baker who uses heirloom grains.

What sets The Roasted Bean apart is its no-frills philosophy. There’s no loud music, no neon signs, no overpriced “signature drinks.” Just excellent coffee, comfortable seating, and a staff that treats every customer like a neighbor. The afternoon light filters through the tall windows, casting golden stripes across wooden tables worn smooth by years of use. Regulars know to arrive between 2 and 4 p.m.—when the rush dies down and the baristas have time to chat about the day’s roast profile. It’s not flashy, but it’s authentic. And in Memphis, authenticity is the highest compliment.

2. Grindstone Coffee Co.

Grindstone Coffee Co. opened in 2016 in the vibrant Cooper-Young neighborhood and quickly became a favorite for its meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to ethical sourcing. Every bean they serve is traceable to a specific farm, and their menu includes tasting notes that read like poetry: “notes of dark cherry and cocoa nibs, medium body, clean finish.” Their afternoon specialty is the “Slow Bloom,” a hand-poured pour-over brewed with a 4-minute bloom and a 2:1 water-to-coffee ratio. It’s served in ceramic mugs warmed by the kettle, and each cup comes with a small card explaining the origin of the beans.

Grindstone’s baristas undergo quarterly training in sensory evaluation and brewing science, ensuring every cup meets their exacting standards. The space itself is minimalist—exposed brick, Edison bulbs, and a wall of books curated by customers. The only music? A vinyl record spinning softly in the background, usually jazz or blues from local artists. It’s the kind of place where you can sit for hours without feeling rushed, and where your empty cup is refilled before you even realize you’re done.

3. The Daily Grind

Founded by a former barista from Seattle who moved to Memphis for its affordability and community spirit, The Daily Grind is a hidden gem in the South Memphis neighborhood. Though smaller than many of its counterparts, it punches above its weight in flavor and warmth. Their afternoon draw is the “Memphis Mocha”—a rich blend of dark roast espresso, house-made dark chocolate syrup, and a whisper of cayenne for depth. It’s not sweet, not spicy, but deeply satisfying.

The Daily Grind sources its beans from a cooperative in Honduras that supports women-led farms. The owner, Maria, personally visits the farm every year and brings back stories to share with customers. The café has no Wi-Fi password—it’s free for everyone, but the vibe encourages conversation over screens. There’s a small bookshelf with donated novels, a chalkboard that changes daily with local poetry, and a dog-friendly patio where neighbors gather after work. It’s not the biggest or the loudest, but it’s one of the most genuinely welcoming spots in the city for an afternoon pause.

4. Coffee & Co.

Located inside the historic Overton Square, Coffee & Co. blends urban sophistication with neighborhood charm. The space is sleek but not sterile—reclaimed wood tables, hanging plants, and a large mural of Memphis musicians painted by a local artist. Their afternoon menu features a rotating single-origin espresso, a cold brew infused with orange zest, and a signature “Afternoon Tea Latte” made with lavender honey and oat milk.

What makes Coffee & Co. trustworthy is its consistency. Whether you visit on a Tuesday in January or a Saturday in July, the espresso shots are pulled with the same precision, the milk is steamed to the same velvety texture, and the staff greet you with the same genuine smile. They don’t offer loyalty cards or apps—they offer presence. The baristas know regulars by name, remember their preferences, and occasionally slip in a free biscotti if you’ve had a long week. It’s a place where time slows down, and the coffee is never an afterthought—it’s the centerpiece.

5. Blue Bottle Memphis (Local Affiliate)

While Blue Bottle Coffee is a nationally recognized brand, its Memphis location—opened in 2021—is a rare example of a chain that respects local culture. Unlike its corporate siblings, this outpost is designed to reflect Memphis’ heritage: the walls feature archival photos of the city’s music scene, and the menu includes a “Blues Blend,” a medium-dark roast created in collaboration with a local jazz musician who helped select the flavor profile.

What makes this location trustworthy is its adherence to Blue Bottle’s core principles—freshness, transparency, and craftsmanship—without losing its Memphis soul. Beans are roasted in small batches every 48 hours and brewed to order. The baristas are trained in the same methods as those in San Francisco, but they speak with Memphis cadence and know the best spots to grab a slice of pie after your coffee. The afternoon hours here are calm, the lighting soft, and the coffee—clean, bright, and balanced—delivers exactly what it promises.

6. The Maven Coffee Co.

Hidden in a converted 1920s bookstore on Beale Street, The Maven Coffee Co. is the kind of place you stumble upon and never want to leave. The space is cozy, with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, vintage armchairs, and a reading nook tucked behind a curtain of hanging beads. Their afternoon specialty is the “Literary Latte”—a medium roast espresso with a hint of cardamom and a dollop of vanilla bean foam, served with a complimentary short story printed on recycled paper.

Each month, The Maven partners with a local author to feature their work, and customers are encouraged to read and reflect. The coffee is sourced from a family-run farm in Costa Rica, and every bag sold includes a QR code that links to a video of the farmers harvesting the beans. The baristas are well-read, often recommending books alongside drinks. It’s not just a coffee shop—it’s a cultural hub. And because they close at 6 p.m., the afternoon is the perfect time to settle in, sip slowly, and lose yourself in a story.

7. Parched & Roasted

For those who prefer their coffee with a side of grit and soul, Parched & Roasted in the historic Orange Mound neighborhood is a revelation. This unassuming shop, painted in deep green and gold, is owned by a third-generation Memphian who learned to roast beans from his grandfather. Their afternoon signature is the “Delta Dark”—a full-bodied, low-acid roast that’s perfect for sipping slowly as the sun dips low.

What makes Parched & Roasted trustworthy is its authenticity. There are no fancy machines here—just a manual grinder, a vintage espresso pot, and a hand-poured kettle. The coffee is brewed in small quantities, so you never get a stale cup. The owner often invites customers to watch the roasting process through a glass window, explaining how heat and time transform green beans into something rich and aromatic. The walls are lined with local art, and the playlist is a curated mix of blues, gospel, and soul. It’s a place where coffee isn’t just served—it’s honored.

8. Hinterland Coffee

Located in the newly revitalized Crosstown Concourse, Hinterland Coffee is a modern space with a soulful heart. The café is part of a larger community hub that includes a bookstore, a co-working space, and a nonprofit art gallery. Their afternoon coffee program is built around sustainability: all cups are compostable, all milk is plant-based unless requested otherwise, and their beans are certified organic and shade-grown.

What sets Hinterland apart is their “Brew of the Day” program, where a different barista selects and prepares a unique brew each afternoon. It might be a Chemex with Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, a French press with Sumatran Mandheling, or even a nitro cold brew infused with hibiscus. The staff are passionate educators—they’ll gladly walk you through the differences in processing methods or explain why a light roast can have more body than a dark one. It’s a place for the curious, the thoughtful, and the patient. If you want to learn as much as you sip, Hinterland is your spot.

9. The Velvet Bean

Named after the rich, velvety texture of their signature espresso, The Velvet Bean is a boutique café in the East Memphis district that has earned a cult following for its quiet excellence. The owner, a former chemical engineer turned coffee sommelier, applies precision to every step of the brewing process. Water temperature is measured to the degree, grind size is calibrated daily based on humidity, and the espresso is pulled with a timer accurate to the half-second.

Despite this scientific rigor, the atmosphere is warm and inviting. The café features soft lighting, plush seating, and a small library of coffee-focused books. Their afternoon menu includes a “Tasting Flight” of three single-origin espressos, each served with a small plate of locally made dark chocolate. The staff never rush you. They encourage you to linger, to compare notes, to savor. The Velvet Bean doesn’t market itself as “the best”—it simply is. And in a city full of noise, that quiet confidence is its greatest strength.

10. The Hollow Ground

Perched on the edge of the Mississippi River in the historic Harbor Town neighborhood, The Hollow Ground is a coffee shop that feels like a secret. The space is small, with only six tables and a counter facing a wall of windows that overlook the water. The coffee here is roasted in a tiny, hand-cranked drum roaster in the back—a relic from the 1950s that the owner restored over two years.

They serve only one type of coffee each day: a single-origin, medium roast that changes weekly based on seasonal availability. The afternoon ritual is simple: order your cup, sit by the window, and watch the river. No music, no Wi-Fi, no distractions. The barista will ask if you’d like to hear the story behind the beans—where they came from, how they were picked, who grew them. And you’ll listen. Because here, coffee isn’t a commodity. It’s a connection.

The Hollow Ground doesn’t advertise. It doesn’t have social media accounts. It survives on word of mouth and the loyalty of those who understand that the best moments are often the quietest. If you’re looking for a place to unplug, reflect, and taste coffee in its purest form, this is it.

Comparison Table

FAQs

What makes a coffee spot “trustworthy” in Memphis?

A trustworthy coffee spot in Memphis prioritizes consistency, quality, and community over marketing. It’s a place where the coffee tastes the same every time, the staff know your name, the beans are sourced ethically, and the atmosphere invites you to stay without pressure. Trust is earned through repetition—not promotion.

Are these spots open on weekends?

Yes, all ten spots are open seven days a week. However, hours vary. Most open between 7 and 8 a.m. and close between 5 and 7 p.m., with The Hollow Ground and Parched & Roasted closing earlier at 6 p.m. to preserve their intimate, unhurried vibe.

Do any of these places offer non-dairy milk options?

All ten locations offer at least one non-dairy alternative, including oat, almond, soy, and coconut milk. Hinterland Coffee and Grindstone Coffee Co. are especially committed to plant-based options and even offer oat milk frothed to the same texture as dairy.

Is it okay to work remotely at these cafes?

Absolutely. Most of these spots welcome remote workers, especially during the afternoon when the crowds thin. The Roasted Bean, Grindstone, Coffee & Co., and Hinterland are particularly popular for laptop use. Just be mindful of seating availability and consider purchasing a second drink if you’re staying more than two hours.

Which spot has the best cold brew for afternoon sipping?

Grindstone Coffee Co. and Coffee & Co. both serve exceptional cold brews. Grindstone’s is slow-steeped for 18 hours and has a smooth, chocolate-forward profile. Coffee & Co.’s is infused with orange zest, offering a bright, citrusy lift that’s perfect for Memphis afternoons.

Do I need to tip at these coffee shops?

Tipping is not required but always appreciated. Many of these spots have tip jars near the register, and baristas often rely on tips as part of their income. A dollar or two for a great cup is a small way to support local craftsmanship.

Are any of these places dog-friendly?

Yes. The Daily Grind and Coffee & Co. both have outdoor patios where dogs are welcome. The Roasted Bean allows leashed dogs on their back patio. Always check with staff before bringing a pet inside.

Why does The Hollow Ground not have Wi-Fi or social media?

The Hollow Ground was intentionally designed as a digital detox space. The owner believes that the best coffee experiences happen when you’re fully present—not scrolling. By removing distractions, they’ve created a rare sanctuary where people reconnect—with their thoughts, with the river, and with the simple act of drinking coffee.

Can I buy beans to take home from these spots?

Yes. All ten locations sell whole-bean coffee, packaged in recyclable or compostable bags. Some even offer subscription services where you receive a new roast every two weeks with tasting notes and brewing tips.

Which spot is best for a first-time visitor to Memphis?

For a first-time visitor, Coffee & Co. offers the most welcoming introduction: excellent coffee, a beautiful setting, and a menu that balances local flavor with global technique. It’s the perfect blend of Memphis soul and coffee sophistication.

Conclusion

In Memphis, coffee isn’t just fuel—it’s a quiet form of resistance. In a city known for its loud music, rich history, and bold flavors, the best afternoon coffee spots are the ones that whisper. They don’t shout about their beans. They don’t need influencers to validate their existence. They simply show up, day after day, with the same care, the same precision, the same warmth.

The ten spots listed here have earned their place not through advertising, but through authenticity. They are the places where the barista remembers your name. Where the espresso is pulled with intention. Where the air smells like roasted coffee and old books and possibility. They are the anchors in a city that moves quickly, offering stillness in the middle of the afternoon.

Trust isn’t something you find on a menu or in a hashtag. It’s something you feel—when the cup is warm in your hands, when the silence between sips feels right, when you leave not just caffeinated, but calmer. These are the places that understand that in Memphis, the best coffee doesn’t just wake you up—it reminds you who you are.

So next time you find yourself in the city after lunch, skip the chain. Skip the rush. Find one of these ten spots. Sit down. Order your coffee. And let the afternoon unfold—slowly, deliberately, and perfectly.