The Best Coffee Cafes in the Berkshires

From house-roasted coffee to artisan hot chocolate, Berkshire cafes are serving up the delicious hot drinks you crave as cooler weather sets in.

Cappuccinos, mocha lattes, espresso. All over the Berkshires, small-batch coffee roasteries, chocolatiers, and chef-owned cafes are elevating a simple cup of joe or mug of cocoa by sharing a deep knowledge of the craft, using high-quality ingredients, and providing a welcoming environment where customers can enjoy deliciously blended beverages. Here is our short list for the best coffee places in the Berkshires.

How about enjoying a steamy coffee drink at a café set inside an antique shop? Berkshire Mantiques is a 7,000-square-foot space in Lanesboro packed with interesting vintage and retro finds handpicked by entrepreneurs and co-owners Jim and Joe Prince. Their drive-thru, Greylock Grounds, offers brews and baked goods to go. 

Meeting friends for a latte and a casual bite? Head for The Marketplace (Pittsfield, Great Barrington, and Sheffield). Each location serves coffees from Berkshire roasteries—wonderful whether taken black or crafted into an enjoyably creamy, hot drink. The innovative menu includes egg dishes, salads, burgers, and sandwiches (including vegan and gluten-free options). And if you’re at all tempted by scratch-made baked goods, save room for the array of delectable desserts by co-owner and chef Kevin Schmitz. 

Pop into the cozy and iconic Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge for an afternoon tea or hot cider—in some cases served next to a gently roaring fireplace or, on warmer days, in a rocking chair on the iconic front porch. It’s the perfect respite after a long stroll through one of the many art museums and historic properties or scenic hikes available nearby.

Shopping or on a walkabout near downtown Lenox? Head for Franklin Street, where Haven Café & Bakery serves up a creative made-to-order breakfast and lunch menu, baked goods, and coffee that’s smooth, bright, and satisfying. There’s a convivial atmosphere here, and everything tastes incredibly fresh. Order at the counter, then seat yourself inside or on the patio during mild weather. 

If you’re looking for a quiet place to relax with some of the best hot chocolate you’ve ever tasted, Chocolate Springs Café in Lenox is it. Their artisanal European-style chocolates are exceptional. The Serious Hot Chocolate is transcendent. We enjoy their hot chocolate so much, we keep the mix on hand at home. You can buy it at the café or online (and, trust us, you will want more once you taste it). 

Other ways to make hot drinks at home with Berkshire ingredients? Find what you need for hot toddies, mulled wines, and hot spiced ciders at a local small-batch distillery, wine store, or orchard. Dare Bottleshop and Provisions in Lenox, Spirited on the Pittsfield-Lenox border, and Berkshire Mountain Distillers in Sheffield are all good places to explore (and sample!). Another option? Visit Berkshire Grown’s indoor and holiday farmers markets throughout the fall and winter seasons. Find more places to Eat & Drink local in the Berkshires here.

Photos: Haven Cafe & Bakery, credit Michelle Murphy; Berkshire Mantiques and Greylock Grounds; Berkshire Mountain Distillers

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