While the natural excitement of being on vacation might be more than enough to fuel you throughout each day of your adventures, sometimes we all need an extra kick of caffeine. We tried a different local coffee shop on each morning of our trip to Galveston, and each had a unique vibe and flavor that set the tone for our vacation day in a fun way. Here are three local coffee shops to try in Galveston, TX recommended by the Wells fam!
1. MOD Coffeehouse
A Galveston staple for over 15 years, MOD Coffeehouse is probably the most well known coffee shop in the area. According to their website: “MOD Coffeehouse was founded in 2001 by the Brown Family: Angela, Craig, and their son Matthew. They wanted to breathe new life into downtown Galveston by providing a space where the community could gather.”
The family restored an old building that survived the infamous “Storm of 1900” hurricane and transformed it into a bustling gathering place just like they imagined. The coffee shop has since changed ownership after sustaining some damage during Hurricane Ike, but the sentiment of community definitely still permeates the space. A large patio full of plant life and string lights greets visitors outside the front entrance, and a cozy interior full of exposed brick, local art, and modge-podged newspaper clippings and postcards on the tabletops gives it that classic small town charm you just can’t replicate in a Starbucks.
The menu had some creative and interesting flavors that we loved. I tried the Squirrell Latte (Vanilla, Hazelnut, Toffeenut & Amaretto) and Austin ordered the Gonzo Latte (Toasted Marshmallow, Praline, White Mocha, Caramel & Cinnamon Sugar). We were both thoroughly impressed with our drinks!
2. 1911 Espresso Bar
This coffee counter resides inside the Grand Galvez and gets its name from the hotel’s opening year. It doesn’t have any seating of its own, but there are plenty of plush velvet couches and cozy wicker window seats around the hotel lobby where you can take in the views of the stunning architecture and interior design while you sip your coffee.
One of the touches I loved the most about this coffee shop was its commitment to the theme of hotel history within the menu: house special drinks had names like Queen’s Dream and Seaside Woman (as a nod to the hotel’s monikers) or Lovelorn Lady and Ghost Bride (as a nod to the resident ghost haunting the women’s restroom).
I was sold on the Lovelorn Lady as soon as I learned this honey and rose flavored concoction came with actual rose petals on top. Austin was enchanted by the black cocoa and flakes of actual silver in his Ghost Bride drink.
Out of all the coffee experiences we had during the trip, this one was the most memorable to me! We really enjoyed exploring a little bit of the Grand Galvez and it made us want to visit as overnight guests someday.
3. Sugar Bean
This coffee shop is located in the heart of the lovely Evia Neighborhood, an idyllic, charming community that looks like a scene from a postcard. We stopped here on our way over to Moody Gardens since it’s located on the Western end of the island, and it was the perfect start to our day.
Sugar Bean has a cheerful yellow facade with an impressive front porch, and absolutely gorgeous views of gazebos and bridges along a nearby freshwater lake out back. After we ordered our coffees, we explored the walking path along the lake a little bit and were mesmerized by the peaceful views.
We both ordered from their seasonal summer menu: I tried the Coconut Creme Latte (Coconut, White Mocha, Topped with Shredded Coconut) and Austin tried the Bee Happy Latte (Vanilla, Caramel, Honey, Cinnamon Powder). Both were very sweet and flavorful, living up to the business name!
We hope you enjoy these Galveston coffee shops!
If you’re planning a beach getaway to Galveston, consider kicking off the day with morning coffee at one of these delightful local businesses. You can try an interesting new drink and support the community all at the same time!
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