Travelers won’t find a Starbucks, Tim Hortons, or Dunkin’ in Camden, Maine, a quintessential Atlantic bay town, ideally saturated between Portland and Acadia National Park. The locals care too much about the town’s many small businesses, mainly the thriving cafes and delis that line the streets near coastal U.S. Route 1. Finding a steaming cup of coffee in Camden, Maine, is as easy as pie. However, unearthing a perfectly-balanced, ever-so-slightly-foamy latte takes a bit of digging. It’s worth noting that each Camden Harbour Inn suite boasts a state-of-the-art Illy coffee machine. That being said, sometimes a cup of joe inside an aromatic, down-to-earth cafe is precisely what the heart needs.

The Best Coffee in Camden, Maine: 5 Essential Stops

What draws an average patron to a coffee shop? Some folks relish the atmosphere—the indie folk music, the artisanal latte art, and the cheeky barista banter. Others simply need a place to relax with some light reading before taking on the day, whether with an opened laptop, a rustling newspaper, or an always convenient smartphone. Below, we highlight five unique cafes that, collectively, offer the tastiest coffee in Camden, Maine, starting with Zoot.

Zoot Coffee

Zoot’s Elm Street cafe is an eight-minute walk from Camden Harbour Inn. There’s nothing overly sophisticated about the decor or atmosphere; yet, that’s what allures out-of-towners: the authentic charm. The home-baked brownies, muffins, and quiche pair flawlessly with a signature latte, such as the cafe mocha; although, the chai is equally delightful on a crisp autumn morn. Don’t be surprised to hear the locals gushing about Zoot’s Scottish oat bars and dry-roasted espresso.

Owl & Turtle Bookshop Cafe

The Owl and Turtle, a cozy, multi-purpose neighborhood cafe, celebrated 50 years this summer. Gripping page-turners, instrumental music, and French press coffee go together like a needle and thread. New Englanders often roll into town to attend an author event at Owl and Turtle. While the book selection is undeniably superb, let’s shift the focus back to the roasty goodness that seeps into Bay View Street’s air every morning and afternoon. Most travelers appreciate Owl and Turtle’s flavored complements, including peppermint, pumpkin spice, and maple—available year-round.

The Best of the Rest: Seafolk, 47 West, and Green Tree

When reflecting on the best coffee in Camden, Maine, the two aforementioned cafes instantly come to mind. After that, opinions vary. However, Seafolk Coffee, 47 West, and Green Tree Coffee & Tea are no doubt worth mentioning, as each establishment has planted a footprint on the local roastery scene. Seafolk, while temporarily closed, offers jaw-dropping vistas of scenic Rockport Harbor. 47 West’s delectable baked goods pair perfectly with a tall cold press coffee. Lastly, travelers shouldn’t leave MidCoast Maine without purchasing a pound of daily-roasted coffee at Green Tree, home to the coziest porch in Lincolnville, Maine.

The Best Hotels in Camden, Maine

When travelers aren’t consuming fresh-baked delights and sipping on house-roasted coffee in Camden, Maine, they’re likely picnicking near the sea, sailing through Penobscot Bay, hiking inside Camden Hills State Park, and savoring fine wine at a nearby vineyard. An idyllic place to start and finish each day of exploration and relaxation is Camden Harbour Inn, a Relais & Châteaux Top Destination. Camden Harbour Inn is a AAA Four Diamond culinary destination, a top-rated wedding venue, and an opulent, widely-beloved New England honeymoon locale. This historic, award-winning Camden hotel boasts the grandest suites in MidCoast, with in-suite amenities ranging from glowing fireplaces to Bain Ultra therapeutic air baths and Apple iPads. To book a long-awaited, last-minute fall escape to Camden, Maine, please check availability online (or contact a reservationist at 800-236-4266).