There’s never a ‘bad’ time to enjoy a good coffee and we here, at Team Car On The Drive, like to think we are aficionados of the great bean! So ditch the Starbucks and try something different – you might even discover a new area to explore whilst you’re about it.
Baldwin Perk Caffé
Winter Park
4833 New Broad St, Orlando, FL 32814
The Good – ‘Friends’ inspired coffee themed cafe with humorous touches and nods to the TV show everywhere (dare you not to take pictures).
The Bad – Given the surroundings people tend to linger so seating can be a premium at peak times.
Our Verdict – Fun vibe and a full menu so you can plan more than just a coffee stop here if you wanted (and we would).
CFS (Coffee For The Soul)
Winter Park / Downtown Orlando / Others
430 W New England Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
The Good – Winter Park is a cute location and right on the main street with all the eclectic shops.
The Bad – There are a few of them now as the franchise grows so it only just makes our list.
Our Verdict – Team COTD Lisa’s favorite coffee. “Even though I get a latte, the coffee isn’t too bitter so it gets my vote”.
Stardust Video & Coffee
Winter Park
www.stardustvideoandcoffee.wordpress.com
1842 E Winter PArk Rd, Winter Park, FL
The Good – They serve whiskey! Yes they have a bar so get your Americano to go and leave your husband behind while you go shopping.
The Bad – Staff can be hit and miss
Our Verdict – Like having coffee in a thrift store. Lots of stuff on the walls (and yes it gets a bit dusty) but the coffee is good and the staff might not seem happy but check out their web site and the ‘meet the staff’ option – someone has a sense of humor. Don’t forget to try the original 1950s photo booth as well!
Prairie House Coffee Co
Oakland
4 S Tubb St.
Oakland FL, 34760
The Good – They serve off brand wines and ciders as well as holistic coffees. They offer simple breakfast items and gluten free options. You can also buy coffee beans to take home.
The Bad – Last time we checked they had no almond milk only oat milk.
Our Verdict – Team COTD Keira’s favorite for an iced coffee.
Chiffon Culture Bakery
Orlando
www.chiffonculturebakeryfl.com
3122 Corrine Drive, Orlando, FL, 32803
The Good – Specialists in cakes, donuts, coffee and boba and their croissant cubes are not to be missed.
The Bad – Slightly more expensive than others but you get what you pay for in terms of quality.
Our Verdict – Try the Korean hot dog and wash it down with a brown sugar boba milk latte!
Filigree Coffee
Winter Garden
16016 New Independence Pkwy, Unit 100
The Good – It’s a micro brewery (well they share a space with Home State Brewing Co)! Located in a newer development there are some good restaurants close by to try as well. Their espresso shot is a signature drink
The Bad – Maybe more off the regular track for those who prefer to be closer to the hustle of Disney or Orlando.
Our Verdict – Calm and pleasant vibe and the brewery makes it an interesting visit. Try the iced summer coconut latte when available.
Juan Valdez Cafe
Windermere
5855 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Ste 140, Windermere
The Good – Sells it’s own brand coffee and promotes columbian farm to cup transparency / fair trade.
The Bad – Trying to hard to be Starbucks means there is little unique about the environment.
Our Verdict – Close to becoming a ‘chain’ so only just makes our list but there are better establishments out there if you want to support a small business.
House Blend Cafe
Ocoee
10730 W Colonial Dr Ocoee, FL 34761
The Good – Full service cafe with good food and plenty of vegetarian friendly and vegan options. This is a great cafe that puts back into the local community.
The Bad – A little further afield away from the tourist traps
Our Verdict – A real homely feel when you walk in with great coffee and food selections. Try the Nutty Irishman waffle or the raspberry scone!
Foxtail Coffee
Winter Park + Everywhere
1282 N Orange Ave Winter Park, FL 32789
The Good – Now in four states with multiple locations it isn’t hard to find one. Nice ambience and the basic coffee is good.
The Bad – Yes we know they are a ‘chain’ but they do a good basic coffee. If you want more quirky drinks this isn’t the place for you. did we also mention they are expensive.
Our Verdict – Food, coffee and the Winter Park location has a roasting facility that’s interesting to see. Lots of people chill here all day and work / study in the relaxed atmosphere.