These Sarasota and Siesta Key coffee shops define cool beans

Let me take you back to 2012 when I was a broke grad school student. My parents were my roommates, I commuted into Manhattan five days a week and I spent all my pennies on experiences rather than saving up for — you know — actual adulting.

Picture a 20-something me, convinced she knew everything about anything. I was willing to intern for anyone who would invest their time in me, and these internships hardly ever came with a paycheck.

I interned at a fashion house for Zac Posen, now executive vice president and creative director of Gap Inc. I stocked closets full of Chanel and other couture brands at Harper's Bazaar, accompanied Paris Hilton backstage to an Israeli fashion designer's show during New York Fashion Week and even made it to the second round of interviews for a gig at Rolling Stone that ultimately went to a nepo baby. 

My crowning professional achievement? Interning (and eventually working) at "The Jerry Springer Show."

From the pinnacle of luxury fashion to the chants of “Jerry! Jerry!” one thing was universally true: Everyone needs their morning jolt. 

My love affair with coffee intensified as I hopped on the 5:30 a.m. train to Manhattan. By the time I caught the 10:21 p.m. back home, I was either toasting the day with a cocktail or slurping down another cup of caffeine to keep my eyes open on the ride back to my parents' house.

Fast forward to 2024. No more late-night brews for me. I've set a responsible caffeine cutoff time of 2 p.m. But there are some local coffee gems that take me back to those invincible, caffeinated days of my twenties. 

So let’s spill the beans on the coffee spots that are truly worth the buzz!

Shelf Indulgence Used Books Café

2805 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 941-260-5326; shelfindulgenceusedbooks.com/cafe

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Calling all foodies and book lovers! This charming used bookstore and café is a cozy haven where you can indulge in flavorful, locally brewed coffee from Sarasota’s own Latitude 23.5 Coffee and Tea. Enjoy fresh, organic ingredients with mouth-watering vegan and vegetarian options while you curl up with a good book. Whether you’re a trivia enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this café has something to delight everyone. 

Espresso Yourself: I don't know if it's being a Floridian or my evolving taste buds, but if you're like me, you might be loco for the coco-nut. Blend beachside bliss with a cup of joe in the form of the tasty Almond Joy latte ($4.65), made with espresso, coconut and mocha syrups and finished off with almond milk. 

Brew-tifully Un-bean-lievable: In the mood for something just a tad sweeter? The sugar cookie latte ($4.95) is simply divine. Espresso, brown sugar and vanilla syrups with milk, whipped cream and cookie topping — designed so even the Grinch-iest of people can get into the holiday spirit. (It will be here before you know it.)

Here's the Tea: Not crazy about coffee? I recommend the green tea Arnold Palmer ($3.25) — half fresh-squeezed lemonade and half organic iced green tea.

O & A Coffee & Supply

1316 Main St., Sarasota; 941-552-8659; 1570 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota; 941-217-4821; plus a mobile coffee bar at Sarasota Farmers Market on Saturdays, oandacoffee.com

If you're the kind of coffee lover who prefers to skip the super-sweet seasonal blends in favor of the rich, bold flavors of a perfectly brewed cup, this is where you need to be. At O&A, every cup is a masterclass in coffee, brewed with care, precision and deep knowledge. The attention to detail, from selecting the beans to crafting your personalized brew, ensures a coffee experience far beyond the ordinary. This is where true coffee enthusiasts come to savor the best in town. 

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Espresso Yourself: The first time I went into owner and founder Justin Banister's first brick-and-mortar store in 2019, I quickly learned that all those coffee runs that I made as an intern were for coffee that sucked. Banister's beans hit notes in my mouth that I didn't even know existed. The flat white ($5) is as beautiful as it is packed with flavor. It does the job of jump-starting your day just right. Made with effort and care, this order requires a prep time of 5 minutes. It's a glorious delivery when that bell rings. 

Brew-tiful and Un-bean-lievable:  My runner-up favorite is without a doubt the cold brew ($5). It's perfect for those mornings you thought were full of fall essence but heat up in the blink of an eye. Add a touch of honey and you are a caffeinated queen ready to embark on the day's conquests.

Here's the Tea: Yes, they have tea but it wouldn't be Eating with Emma without, well, eating. The breakfast burrito ($8.50 and up) is a tantalizing tastebud experience you weren't expecting, foodies. Have a brew-tiful morning.

Mojo Risin' Coffee Siesta Key

5251 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key; 941-349-6656; mojorisincoffee.com

This Siesta Key hotspot is a must-visit for coffee lovers and cocktail seekers alike, blending laid-back vibes with a splash of retro flair. Nestled beneath a tiki hut roof and right next to the iconic Gilligan's, this café has become a local legend, standing strong after hurricanes Helene and Milton. Whether you're craving a smooth caffeine boost or a classic cocktail, this Mid-Century Modern-inspired spot serves up the perfect blend of cool vibes and great drinks. 

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Espresso Yourself: For someone who is not a huge fan of bananas or anything banana-flavored, I was shocked when I ordered the monkey mocha ($5.50 and up), chugged it and immediately pondered ordering a second one. Espresso, served iced or hot, with caramel and banana fuels your mind, body and Siesta Key soul in a seriously sensational way.

Brew-tiful and Un-bean-lievable: I often hear my dad's voice, "KISS: Keep It Simple, Stupid," and I do my best to follow his advice. The café con leche ($3.50) combines equal parts of espresso with whole dairy milk. I instantly remember why I am so thankful not to be lactose-intolerant. Skip breakfast and enjoy an Espresso Martini ($11) with Smirnoff vodka, Baileys, Kahlua, fresh pulled espresso and you might need a nap before you start your day. But who said that's a bad idea?

Here's the Tea: Our non-coffee drinkers (hi, Mom), can order a chai latte ($5.25), hot chocolate ($5.25 and up), iced or hot tea ($3.50) or head straight to the bar and pick up a Bloody Mary ($8) loaded with Smirnoff, seven spices, horseradish and pickled green bean. That's sure to get your mojo risin'!