By Gregg Fletcher
Let’s be honest, coffee in Palm Springs isn’t just about caffeine. It’s about community, architecture, creativity, and the kind of vibe that makes you want to linger. Whether I’m meeting a client, catching up on emails, or just taking a moment to slow down, I’ve found that some of the best coffee shops in Palm Springs are more than just great cafés; they’re part of the lifestyle. If you’re new to town or just looking for your next go-to spot, here are the places I recommend.
Key Takeaways
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Each coffee shop in Palm Springs offers its own unique atmosphere and local flavor.
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Many spots feature outdoor seating and scenic surroundings perfect for relaxing or socializing.
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Local businesses often highlight community, creativity, and regional pride.
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You’ll find everything from bold espresso to inspired specialty drinks across the city.
Café La Jefa: Where Coffee Meets Culture
This Latinx- and women-owned café has quickly become a Palm Springs favorite for good reason. Located just off Palm Canyon Drive, Café La Jefa serves up excellent coffee and matcha in a modern outdoor courtyard shared with local shops.
Why It’s a Go-To
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House-made horchata lattes and cold brew with oat milk are worth the hype.
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Strong Wi-Fi and shaded patio seating make it great for casual work meetings.
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Vibe: laid-back, design-conscious, and community-minded.
Ernest Coffee: Reliable, Stylish, and Locally Loved
Tucked into the Uptown Design District, Ernest Coffee is known for its consistently great coffee and its chic but unfussy atmosphere. It’s built into the old Don the Beachcomber tiki bar, and that bit of history gives it extra soul.
What Makes It Stand Out
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Great espresso and drip coffee from Stumptown Roasters.
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Plenty of shaded patio space with mountain views.
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Ideal stop before shopping the design boutiques or heading into Las Palmas.
Café Mon Amour: Cozy, Local, and a Bit Under the Radar
One of the newer spots in town, Café Mon Amour has a warm, inviting interior with a mix of vintage and European charm. It’s a quieter option, perfect for one-on-one catchups or solo mornings with a laptop and croissant.
Why You’ll Love It
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Fresh pastries made in-house and a rotating seasonal menu.
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Friendly baristas who learn your name fast.
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Cozy indoor seating that feels more like a living room than a café.
Gré Records & Coffee: Vinyl, Vibes, and a Strong Pour
If you like your coffee with a side of crate-digging, this is your place. Gré is part record shop, part coffee bar, and fully committed to its downtown Palm Springs roots.
What Sets It Apart
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Small but serious coffee menu; try the pour-over or cortado.
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Curated vinyl collection and frequent listening events.
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Great energy and ideal for creatives or music lovers.
Koffi: Palm Springs’ Longtime Favorite
With multiple locations (including downtown, South Palm Springs, and Rancho Mirage), Koffi is practically an institution. It’s known for generous outdoor space, strong coffee, and a very loyal local following.
What Makes It Classic
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In-house roasting and an extensive drink menu.
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Tons of shaded seating, ideal for reading, chatting, or people-watching.
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Consistent quality that locals rely on daily.
L’Atelier Café: A Taste of France in the Desert
For those mornings when only a flaky croissant and a double espresso will do, L’Atelier delivers. This intimate French café is located downtown and brings quiet elegance to the Palm Springs coffee scene.
Why It’s Worth a Visit
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Authentic French pastries made fresh daily; don’t miss the almond croissant.
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Tiny but beautifully designed interior space with outdoor bistro tables.
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Perfect for a slow morning or a pre-shopping pick-me-up.
4 Paws Coffee Co: Pet-Friendly with Heart
A newer addition to the Palm Springs lineup, 4 Paws Coffee Co offers solid coffee, friendly service, and a welcoming vibe for dog lovers. It's casual, upbeat, and great for locals who want something relaxed.
Why It Deserves a Spot
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Dog-friendly patio and pup cups available.
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Locally roasted beans and great breakfast burritos.
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Great stop before heading out for a walk or hike nearby.
FAQs
What’s the most popular café for remote work?
Café La Jefa and Koffi are both top picks for remote work with reliable Wi-Fi and spacious outdoor seating.
Are any of these pet-friendly?
Yes! 4 Paws Coffee Co, Koffi, and Ernest Coffee all offer pet-friendly patios.
Where can I find the best pastries?
For traditional French pastries, L’Atelier Café is the winner. For more variety, Café Mon Amour has a fantastic rotating pastry case.
Contact Me Today
Exploring the best coffee shops in Palm Springs is one of the best ways to get to know the city, and if you’re thinking about putting down roots here, I’d love to help. A home in the right neighborhood means you’re never far from your favorite local spots, morning rituals, or mountain-view patios.
Reach out to me, Gregg Fletcher, and let’s talk homes, neighborhoods, and all the little things that make Palm Springs such an exceptional place to live. Coffee’s on me.
Reach out to me, Gregg Fletcher, and let’s talk homes, neighborhoods, and all the little things that make Palm Springs such an exceptional place to live. Coffee’s on me.
