New Orleans during Mardi Gras is a terrific experience: there’s lots to see and places to run to – BUT at some point you might want to take a break. Of course, this will be a pit stop. You’re not in the mood to waste time on a full-blown meal – just some strong, hot coffee with a delicious goodie that will get your energy level up and running again. We speak from experience so take a look at our list of coffee shops where you can grab a quick cuppa  joe.

“MAMMOTH ESPRESSO” IS IN THE WAREHOUSE DISTRICT

This coffee shop serves meticulously crafted coffee and tea along with delectable treats. This is the spot for a range of drinks for you to try: espresso, cappuccino, latte, flat white and mocha – along with an astounding number of teas and even hot chocolate. Here’s the good news: every Monday this place offers single espresso shots for $1.00 – can’t beat that. You’ll find this charming spot at 821 Baronne Street.

CAFÉ BEIGNET ON ROYAL: AN EASY WALK IN THE QUARTER

You’ll love the beignets (the word is French for “fritter” or “doughnut” or, more specifically, square pieces of dough topped with powdered sugar) that can be ordered here – they’re great for coffee breaks or for breakfast – which is served all day at Café Beignet. You’ll find a wide selection of hot and cold beverages plus omelets, waffles, croissants and sandwiches. This café is located at 334 Royal Street. To read our thoughts about Café Beignet CLICK HERE.

BACKATOWN COFFEE PARLOUR: NEAR ST. LOUIS CEMETERY #1

This black-owned coffee shop offers delicious coffee, great service and tasty breakfast options. Or, as one very upbeat reviewer says, “Dear God and the Owners of Backatown, Thank you for the best spinach quiche ever – along with your coffee – which is pretty good, too.” I think this is hilarious. They also offer Panini (sandwich), sweet potato pie and crawfish quiche all made in-house. The owners of the shop also point out that their coffee beans come from one of the few black-owned roasters in the U.S. This coffee shop with its high ceilings, natural light and colorful murals is located at 301 Basin Street. To read our blog about the St. Louis Cemetery #1 CLICK HERE.

CONGREGATION COFFEE IN HISTORIC ALGIERS POINT

The location of this spot is a bit off the beaten track. But no matter, the owners have a creative approach to coffee. They decided to open this restaurant after roasting coffee beans and selling wholesale since 2015. The name comes from a term used for a group of alligators, e.g., a congregation of alligators. They have named their various blends after the way these creatures move, e.g., HIGH WALK is a regular blend, LOW WALK is decaf and the GALLOP is a dark roast.  They also offer pastries and muffins to go with their special coffee. This restaurant is located on 240 Pelican Avenue. CLICK HERE to read more about Algiers Point – one-quarter mile from New Orleans across the Mississippi River.

SPITFIRE COFFEE: NEAR JACKSON SQUARE IN THE QUARTER

I love the name of this spot! It’s a small place (plan to take your drink “to go”) that you’ll find at 627 St. Peter. Their catchy moniker got my attention at once. CLICK HERE for more info.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick