A java journey through Peoria’s top coffee shops
Be ready to travel through a flavorful journey of Peoria's top five finest coffee shops, each sip is a new adventure in taste and ambience that you're guaranteed to enjoy.
Welcome to our curated list of exquisite coffee shops, carefully crafted for coffee enthusiasts in the Peoria area. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a casual coffee lover looking to explore new flavors and atmospheres, this collection of shops is designed to elevate your coffee experience to new heights.
For those seeking more than just a caffeine fix, our selection covers 5 different establishments, all with their own unique ambiance, signature flavors. From neighborhood cafes to urban hotspots, there's something for every palate and preference.
Whether you're on your own looking for something different, catching up with friends, or simply looking for a little peace and quiet, let this list serve as your guide to discovering the finest coffee havens in town.
Why trust us?
Our dedication to coffee shop culture and our commitment to delivering authentic, reliable recommendations set us apart as trusted authorities in the realm of hot and cold caffeinated beverages. Here's why you can rely on our expertise:
How we selected and tested
In our search to find the best coffee shops near Bradley University, we meticulously selected a curated collection of coffee shops that demonstrate excellence in both taste and ambiance.
We reached our final list of Coffee shops based on their proximity to Bradley University. We understand the importance of convenience and accessibility, and focused our attention on coffee shops located in close proximity to Bradley University. There is great value in having access to a great coffee shop within reach of students, faculty from around the area, and locals alike.
With discerning palates and a passion for exceptional coffee, we each went out on a journey to test the flavors and vibes of our chosen shops. A good coffee doesn’t make a coffee shop great, it can be the atmosphere that can make or break a caffeinated experience. We each tried a highly sought after drink at each coffee shop and evaluated each drink based on the flavor and type of roast.
Beyond the brews, we paid close attention to the atmosphere of each shop as well as the accessibility. Focusing on what type of music is being played, interior design, seating arrangements, lighting, volume levels of the shop, and how close it is to campus.
So, without further ado, grab your favorite mug and join us on a journey through the world of coffee. Adventure awaits at every sip!
Our top picks:
Zion Coffee Bar - 803 SW Adams Street, Peoria, IL
Located on the corner of Oak and Adams and only a five minute drive from Bradley University, Zion Coffee Bar offers a great experience. Stepping into Zion feels like entering a cozy sanctuary for coffee lovers. With high ceilings and windows from top to bottom, tons of natural light is poured in creating a very cozy atmosphere.
Zion Coffee Bar is a great establishment. Zion is a great place to study and get work done. If you are someone who can only work in a quiet environment, making sure you go before the afternoon rush would be best, but if you are able to work through a louder environment we recommend going whenever. Zion offers great coffee and an even greater experience with the atmosphere they produce through their unique seating options and cozy ambiance.
Bake & Brew Panaderia - 5201 War Memorial Dr, Peoria, IL
Bake & Brew Panaderia is a coffee shop located 12 minutes away, north of Bradley University, at the Shoppes of Grand Prairie. The café accommodates for a really serene and inviting atmosphere, working well for individuals who are seeking a safe and relaxing space. Whether you’re riding solo or plan to visit with friends, family, or a partner, Bake & Brew Panaderia offers a welcoming environment. Inside is furnished with hanging fairy lights, creating a warm ambiance; and multiple windows embracing natural sunlight for a peaceful setting.
In short, Bake & Brew’s signature latte makes for a memorable beginning to the service they offer to all their customers. When asking about their coffee beans, the barista revealed that important components which go into making a robust but well-balanced brew are sourced from Brazil and Papua New Guinea. Every customer should expect to experience the best complete beverages which are provided to them by Revive Coffee & Roasting Company. Upon my time at Bake & Brew I was also fortunate to speak to a fellow customer Emilio Madrigal, a 21-year old Bradley Student, about his personal experience, “It’s beyond satisfactory,” He said, “ all the employees have ensured a quick and efficient customer experience, and my drink is just how I would like it to be.”
Intuition Coffee + Juice - 734 Main St, Peoria, IL
The cozy and inviting Intuition Coffee Shop in Peoria, Illinois, is well-known for its artisanal coffee and welcoming atmosphere. It is conveniently located in the downtown area just 7 minutes from Bradley University and serves delectable pastries and light meals in addition to a wide range of specialty coffee drinks produced with locally roasted coffee beans. The store is a great spot to study, catch up with friends, or just spend some time alone with a delicious cup of coffee given its laid-back atmosphere. Thanks to its great coffee and friendly service, Intuition Coffee Shop has grown to be a well-liked community center that attracts both locals and tourists.
When ordering their iced coffee at Intuition Coffee Shop they mention that it is a refreshingly pleasant treat that is painstakingly made from beans that are purchased locally and served perfectly cooled. It has a crisp, smooth flavor profile that may be modified with milk or cream. Their Espresso Americano, on the other hand, is a strong and energizing classic that combines hot water with two shots of skillfully extracted espresso to create a rich, full-bodied experience that's perfect for anyone who needs a quick pick-me-up. Whether you're craving the refreshing zing of iced coffee or the robust kick of an Espresso Americano, Intuition Coffee Shop promises a meticulously crafted coffee experience that's sure to satisfy along with their great service.
CXT Roasting Company - 6035 Knoxville Ave, Peoria, IL
CxT coffee shop is a darker but inviting atmosphere for Peoria area coffee lovers. The inside is industrial yet warm, offering a great space for working, studying or even just catching up with friends. With the busiest times being in the morning, it's a nice space for concentrating if you prefer a louder environment. If a mellow environment is what you're looking for, we recommend going in the evening. The baristas are friendly and open to give recommendations on their large variety of drinks. With seasonal beverages coming and going, there's always something new to try.
The variety of espresso offered is expansive and ever changing, making every cup an opportunity for a new favorite origin. With the beans being roasted in house, there's always a guarantee of freshness and a taste unique to the shop.
The peanut butter banana latte is a winter-spring favorite among the customers, said barista Peter Meismer when asked for a suggestion. When I asked why a Bradley student would venture the 15 minutes to visit the shop he stated “I feel like the prices are fair, and the coffee is pretty high quality, especially in comparison to something like Starbucks which is lower quality and more expensive”. The delightful service and high quality drinks make CxT a must visit spot for anyone who enjoys coffee in the area, especially students.
Leaves n’ Beans Coffee - 4800 Prospect Rd, Peoria, IL
Tucked away on the corner of a quaint street in Peoria Heights is Leaves n’ Beans coffee, a warm and spacious coffee destination. With the outside of the shop being a house, the inviting atmosphere is even greater. They have a large array of seasonal drinks listed on a chalk-painted door. The homey vibe immediately evokes a craving for a warm cup of coffee, especially with their variety of daily brewed coffees.
The sugar momma latte combined warm spiced flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with creamy white chocolate, perfect for the winter transition into spring. Although a very sweet cup it was perfect for anyone looking for a treat. The seating selection was vast as the shop boasts two cozy levels, perfect for busier times of the day. The artwork covering the walls and the book-lined shelves make for a wonderful study space.
Beyond the top 5
For those eager to expand their coffee horizons further we recommend trying out other gems around the Peoria area:
Ardor Bread and Provisions: Located down by the riverfront, Ardor is a great place for a cup of coffee and some of the best pastries in the area.
Café Santa Rosa: Just outside of Peoria Heights has great outdoor seating and a large menu.
The Spot Café: From coffee to a wide selection of herbal teas, The Spot Café is a unique coffee shop to try.
We hope that our list of Peoria’s best coffee shop experiences has been of assistance to you. This is only a small selection of the many delightful coffee spots in the area, each offering its unique ambiance and flavors to explore. Whether you're a connoisseur seeking a perfect latte or looking for a peaceful place to work, Peoria has plenty more to offer.