Whether you’re a die-hard espresso nut, can’t function without your morning coffee, or you’re just in it for the pastries, it’s no exaggeration to say that coffee shops are a staple of modern urban living. And from global chains to locally-owned one-off cafes, Boston has no shortage of excellent coffee and tea houses on offer.
Except, interestingly enough, in Fort Hill proper.
The most historic part of Roxbury, Fort Hill owes a lot of its charm to the decidedly less commercially-developed nature of the neighborhood. But when you’re craving espresso, that means venturing right up to — or past — Fort Hill’s borders. Thankfully, this is still Boston: you don’t have far to go.
With that in mind, we’ve ventured into the surrounding area to find the best coffee near Fort Hill. Check it out.
Butterfly Falafel
Right next to the Roxbury Crossing T station, Butterfly Falafel isn’t just a great place to grab some shawarma or a 2-egg omelette — though let’s be clear, they’re definitely that place — there’s a great little cafe to be found here. The only entry on this list with the distinction of hailing from within Fort Hill’s borders, Butterfly Falafel would still make the cut even if you had to trek to a neighboring district
From spiced Somali Tea to the usual array of lattes, macchiatos, and other espresso drinks, the hot beverages are on point. The prices are surprisingly non-brutal for the quality of food and drink you’re getting. Frankly, any place that serves a cappuccino this good for less than three bucks is all right in our books.
Pro tip for those of us taking the Orange Line into work: grab a shawarma wrap along with your morning coffee, and you’ve got lunch taken care of for the day.
Dudley Cafe
Here at the Boston Pads network, we know a thing or two about the power of a hyperlocal focus. And when it comes to coffee shops in Roxbury, nobody exemplifies that local focus quite like Dudley Cafe. All their coffee beans come from Fazenda Coffee Roasters in Dedham, while MEM Tea Imports in Watertown handles their brews. Pastries from Medford, bread from Concord, and a full calendar of community involvement are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg.
Of course, none of that would matter if the coffee wasn’t up to snuff. Thankfully, Dudley Cafe steps up to the plate, and hits it out of the park.The cold brew and Thai iced tea are both spectacular, the loose leaf tea and coffee are great, and espresso drinks are crafted with obvious care.
If you’re looking for “your” local coffee shop around Fort Hill, Dudley Cafe makes a compelling argument. Definitely worth a visit.
Farmer’s Horse Coffee
Another Orange Line neighbor, Farmer’s Horse (or “Farmer Horse,” as it seems to be online) is all about artfully roasted Ethiopian coffee. Situated right across from the Mass Ave. T stop, this little cafe ticks all the boxes we look for in a local coffee shop. With walls lined by local artist’s work, a selection of games, and the all-important free wi-fi, it’s a fantastic place to cozy up with a warm drink. Whether you’re meeting friends, getting some work done, or just taking a moment for yourself, Farmer’s Horse is the sort of place you’ll find yourself lingering in.
Though lovingly curated Etheopian coffee and espresso drinks are the undisputed stars of the show, give the ginger tea a shot if you’re in the mood for something different. Just be sure that you’re actually ready for ginger ginger: a subtle drink this is not.
Pavement Coffeehouse
Between the mega-chains and the “mom & pop” storefronts sits Pavement Coffeehouse. With eight locations across Boston and Cambridge, Pavement’s curated selection of locally roasted coffees is good enough to warrant a nationwide subscription service. With three locations within a mile or two of Fort Hill (in Fenway, Symphony, and the original location near Berklee), chances are you’ll swing near a Pavement Coffeehouse sooner or later.
When you do, don’t be surprised to find a crowd: Pavement enjoys a hip, dedicated following, and that its popularity can make it tricky to find an open table during prime coffee hours.
But trust us: the hype is real. Whether you’ve got a refined palette that can tell the difference between Etheopian and Guatemalan roasts in a single sip, have been looking for a good Spanish latte, or are strictly in this for the hot chocolate, Pavement’s reputation as the coffee lover’s local chain is well-earned.
Yely’s Restaurant and Coffee Shop
Though it’s definitely more of a restaurant, don’t sleep on Yely’s coffee. If you’re looking for some authentically strong, Wake Up And Do The Thing coffee in the morning, Yely’s has your number. Fresh donuts and other pastries are here for the taking, but the real star of the show is the cuisine.
If you’re looking for authentic Dominican food, Yely’s has you more than covered. Serving up generous helpings at pocket-change prices, their menu has a lot to offer... though we’re partial to the fried plantains ourselves.
Bonus Guilty Pleasure Selection: Dunkin’
We’re not too fancy to admit it: Dunkin’s got a special place in our hearts, and there’s three locations within a mile of Fort Hill. Though it’s still a little strange to omit the “Donuts” part for some of us, Dunkin’s hot coffee is a staple of cold Boston winters, and looks to remain so for the foreseeable future.
So Close, Yet... Actually, Still Pretty Close
Fort Hill is a fantastic place to live: full of natural and historic beauty, and just secluded enough to feel genuinely separate from the bustle of working downtown. All the benefits of city life — such as great coffee shops — are right within reach. There when you want them, and generally out of sight when you don’t.
What do you think? Did we miss your favorite coffee shop? Have a favorite drink we need to know about? Sound off in the comments, and let us know!
