Coffee isn't just what keeps me running and in a good mood, it stimulates my thoughts and creates conversation. Practically anytime I'm working on classes, or writing a new blog post, I'm having a cup of coffee. Many know about the 'Go Local' movement. I fully support it, especially when I buy coffee. A couple new spots have opened up lately in the Bryant area, which calls for a new blog post. I'll also cover some of my favorite coffee spots in the Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Conway area today.
Bryant
Few probably remember when Woodside Coffee was across from the Bryant Walmart years ago. It was a great place with good coffee, but since it went out of business, Bryant has lacked any local coffee shops, and sometimes Starbucks just doesn't cut it. Since November, a couple new local coffee breweries have appeared in the Bryant area. So hopefully the days of #WhiteGirlCoffee (lol) are behind us!
Speak Easy Coffee & Bar
This coffee shop holds true to its name, providing customers an environment where the conversation flows. Speak Easy is a recent addition to the Bryant area that's a branch of Mugs Cafe (located in the NLR area). I can't tell you how many times I've complained about Bryant not having a coffee shop with an atmosphere like the LR shops have.
A friend and I went on their grand opening just last Wednesday and I'm so thrilled to have a phenomenal local coffee shop within our community You can find many of Mugs beloved menu options here, right in the heart of Saline County. Speak Easy makes for an easy option for consumers to choose for their coffee spot for the day. My favorite is the Cafe Con Miel. I drink it with skim, and the rich espresso is topped with honey and cinnamon. I've heard that another favorite is the Cuban, sweetened with condensed milk.
Koffee with a Kause
On my bi-weekly LR commute, I'm always sure to stop by Koffee with a Kause when I'm on the go. With the drive-thru being the only option, this coffee is consistently quick and made the same every time. It has yet to disappoint. Not only are you promised to get a cup of coffee goodness, but you're also giving to a cause. Each month, Koffee with a Kause chooses a new cause to give 10% of their profits towards. That makes my major caffeine addiction a bit more justifiable...
North Little Rock
Mugs Cafe
Just a short walk across the bridge from the downtown LR area, you'll be surprised by a wealth of refreshing spots in the Argenta Arts District. Though Mugs is known for their great cup of joe, you'll also find art walks, wine tastings, photo exhibits, and church services on Sundays at this local hang out. Saturday morning pancake breakfasts here are one for the books.
I have yet to take a trip to Mugs and not see a soul I know. When I was in my 'Instagram phase', Mugs was the place to be. Even if you don't have an Instameet on your agenda, Mugs is a great place to connect with Little Rock locals.
While you're in the Argenta area, you'll find entertainment at the Argenta Community Theater along with great eats like the Cregreen's Irish Pub. At the pub, the petit jean bacon pretzel burger is my all time favorite.
Little Rock
Mylo Coffee Co.
As soon as you step foot through the golden door, your eyes will be opened to the owners unique and local pastries, salads, and, of course, coffee.
The Mylonas went through culinary school in the UK and have brought it to this quaint shop on Kavanaugh. Their shop stands out from others with their fresh ingredients.
With plenty of sitting space at Mylo, you can cluster up at a table or take a seat in solitude at the bar looking over Kavanaugh Boulevard.
River City Coffee
There are so many charming spots around the Hillcrest area, and I consider River City Coffee as one of my favorites. My first time in, I was welcomed and got to know the baristas well. Though Mylo moved in down the street at River City's old location, the competition hasn't been a threat with their loyal locals coming in for (at least) a cup a day.
You're guaranteed a cozy and inviting atmosphere at River City with lots of natural light to stimulate your thoughts. They also have local art for sale in the upper part of their shop.
Conway
Blue Sail Coffee
I'm in the Conway area once or twice in a typical week, usually visiting Austin at UCA. Many days this summer while he's been taking five-week college courses, we spend at Blue Sail. It's by far my favorite place to spend countless hours in conversation.
Blue Sail's cold-brew coffee and tea are many of my friends favorites to sip on. We ended up spending this whole rainy Sunday afternoon here. We're both familiar faces to the baristas.
Hopefully, you fellow espresso enthusiasts now have a few new places on your list of must-go-tos around Little Rock! I'll be writing more about my favorite local hangouts (other than coffee shops) in a future blog post.
Until then,
Madeline