The Best Coffee Shops in Delaware

Delaware, despite its small size, has lots of great cafes for coffee enthusiasts. Its famous beaches and quaint towns host an impressive number of coffee shops that cater to every taste. From smooth single-origin brews to hearty espresso drinks, these cafes are more than just places to grab a caffeine fix; they offer unique experiences perfect for relaxation, catching up with friends, or working remotely.

While there's definitely lots I didn't mention on this list, I only wanted to include the ones I've actually been to and have an opinion of. If you know of some I missed, please let me know so I can try them!

Kent County

House of Coffi in Dover

House of Coffi is conveniently located on Loockerman St in downtown Dover, making it easily accessible and well-known. House of Coffi is my favorite coffee shop in Dover, and that's due to their huge array of syrup flavors and cozy feel. Another thing I love about House of Coffi is their involvement with the community. They display art and jewelry for sale from local artists, and have a section for people to leave business cards. They have both indoor and outdoor seating. The House of Coffi is open 7 days a week from 7am to 5:30pm (8am to 2:30pm on Sundays).

Dolce in Milford

Located right on Walnut St in Downtown Milford, Dolce has been a staple of the community for 20 years. They offer a variety of coffees, smoothies, pastries, and sandwiches, even acai bowls. One unique factor that Dolce has is their rewards program. Linked to your credit card, you earn rewards every time you buy, and this allows you to earn free drinks and food. While a bit small on the inside, their recent remodel includes outlet-accessible tables and a chic modern feel. Dolce is open from Monday to Saturday, from 7am to 4pm (1pm on Saturdays).

Sussex County

The Station on Kings in Lewes

I discovered The Station on Kings by accident while riding the Georgetown-Lewes bike trail one day, and I realized what I had been missing out on. Located on Kings Hwy in Lewes, this place has it all: amazing coffee, delicious food, a bakery, a store with cool odds and ends, and a garden. Their vanilla latte is one of the best I've ever tasted (they use homemade vanilla sauce!), and we love their pastries. I haven't tried their food, but I've seen how good it looks. We've perused around the garden and greenhouse, and always snoop around to see what new things they have in their shop. The decor and high ceilings give this cafe awe. I love that the coffee prices are surprisingly affordable considering how good they are. The Station on Kings is open 7 days a week, from 8am to 4pm.

New Castle County

Corner Grounds Cafe in Odessa

I didn't know this place existed until fairly recently, but I love the vibe here. Located right off Dupont Pkwy in Odessa, Corner Grounds offers coffees, teas, and an abundance of baked goods such as cakes and bagels. They use only fair-trade coffee beans, and their philosophy focuses on providing an inviting environment for all of their customers. Corner Grounds is open 7 days a week, from 6am to 3pm (7am-2pm on weekends).

Sleeping Bird Coffee in Wilmington

Sleeping Bird Coffee is located right off 95 in Wilmington. What drew me to this shop was how cool the building looked. The inside was equally cool, with modern decor and furnishings. Sleeping Bird Coffee started as a coffee truck, until the husband and wife duo were able to turn it into a brick-and-mortar cafe. They offer a variety of coffees and teas, and they also have an impressive food and pastry menu. Sleeping Bird Coffee is open 7 days a week, from 7am to 3pm (8am to 3pm on weekends).

Bernies Espresso

We discovered this place randomly a few months ago, and its definitely my favorite coffee shop in Northern Delaware. Located inside Wilmington's Riverfront Market at 3 S Orange St, Bernie's is a cute little coffee shop that is family-owned and operated. One of the things I loved about this place right off the bat is their branding. Being a huge cat lover and purple enthusiast, their purple and cat themed stand really caught my attention.

Like other coffee shops on this list, they have monthly specialty drinks and a huge variety of flavors. The espresso itself is delicious and the staff are super friendly. They even gave us free stickers! If you're traveling around Wilmington, I highly suggest stopping in the Market and getting a coffee at Bernie's! They're open Monday to Friday 7am -4pm, and Saturday 8:30am - 4pm.

Bonus: Hens & Honey Shoppe in South Jersey

I know this shop isn't in Delaware, but its so good that it feels like a disservice to not include it. This coffee shop located in Swedesboro is not far from where I grew up, and my cousin was constantly raving about it before I finally tried it myself. Let me tell you, this place has the most intricate and delicious coffees I've ever tried.

My favorite thing about Hens & Honey is their coffee flights. Not a lot of cafes offer these, but with so many choices on their menu, it only makes sense to get 4 at a time. They also have a small yet delicious food menu that includes gourmet waffles and toast. Besides being a coffee shop, this place is also a shop-shop, selling local creations such as soaps and candles. Not to mention, they have a whole corner dedicated to Taylor Swift. My boyfriend and I try to come here every time we're in Jersey, and my cousin works here a lot so its nice to see her.