MY TOP FIVE COFFEE SHOPS IN WILMINGTON, DELAWARE
If you know me, then you know I love a fresh pot of coffee. I can have coffee in the morning, afternoon, and right before bed, at the bar, anytime. Coffee is a thing that brings me joy. No lie, Expresso gives me a boost of serotonin every time I stop into a coffee shop. For me, it has been a thing where I sit and work in a coffee shop. I struggle with focusing and body doubling in a coffee shop is just what I need to get my work done.
When I first came back to Wilmington, Delaware, I was so upset that the State was limited in coffee shops that wasn’t franchised. Yes, Brew HaHa to me is a franchise, even if it’s a local thing. Delaware has a ton of Starbucks and Dunkin but where’s all the local coffee shop? It drove me crazy not to have a variety of places where I could go and sit to not only do work but enjoy my favorite beverage. I have moved here from the Indianapolis Area where the coffee shop business is booming. Since 2020, a lot of change and so has the local coffee shop. There has been a growing number of coffee shops that have popped up since 2020. I’m here for all the new local spots. I figured it was time to compile a list of my Top 5 favorite coffee shops in Wilmington, Delaware.
LEGAL GROUNDS CAFÉ | 1208 KIRKWOOD’S HWY PHONE| HOURS: MON- FRI 6:30- 3 SAT-SUN 7- 3
This was the 1st coffee shop that I found back in Summer 2020. They have inside dining, outside dining, and takeout. It’s technically not in Wilmington but in Elsmere, DE. They serve breakfast and lunch items in a European-inspired café. I went here often because they had outdoor seating, and the area was quiet. I met the owner a few times and he was super nice. He gave me a breakdown of the café and all they had to offer. I will say their lunch deals are great and the quality of the food is amazing. If I had to rate my experience it would be a 10 out of 10.
SPARKED CREATIVE PASTRY | 111 W 10TH ST, WILMINGTON, DE 19898 | HOURS: MON-SAT 7- 4
Sparked is in DECO Food Hall. They specialize in La Colombe Coffee, fresh sandwiches, and pastry treats. Hotel Du Point Pastry Chef prepares the delicious treats, so you know the food items are incredible. Sparked is my go-to coffee because it’s located in the heart of downtown Wilmington; it’s a 3-minute walk from my apartment. DE.CO has outdoor seating that’s pet-friendly. During the warmer months, it’s a perfect spot to grab your morning coffee after taking your dog for a walk. If you’re staying at Hotel Du Pont, this is a great place to grab breakfast.
SCOUT. CAFÉ | 2316 BAYNARD BLVD | 302-524-4223 HOURS| MON-SUN 7- 3:30 CLOSED TUESDAY
The newest coffee shop to the Wilmington scene was inspired by the owner to be community-focused. The motto over at Scout is that they stand for Coffee, Community, and Local. When I first walked into the shop, it felt like a warm hug. The building was renovated but you can feel that it holds history. Early in the am, people were engaging in conversation and enjoying each other company. There was a section in the shop that had information about events going on in the area. Scout Café is a small hidden-away shop that feels local and empowers its message of community. Most coffee shops are striving for this feel. I haven’t had any lunch items from the shop, but the breakfast items are great. Stop by to support this shop if you’re in the area.
I.M. COFFEE | LOCATION | 1105 N MARKET STREET | 302 300-4935 HOURS: MON-FRI 7-2
What’s a coffee shop without some great food? When I was apartment search, I found this Coffee shop hidden away in a building. It was a match made in heaven because I.M. Coffee food items are exceptional. Not only do they have a large list of specialist coffee items. Their breakfast and lunch menu will leave you satisfied. I love a piece of good bacon, egg, and cheese on a bagel but lately, their breakfast burrito and avocado toast have got me hooked. They do have open dining inside as well as outdoors. For a good morning meal, this is the place to go if you’re ever in Downtown Wilmington.
MILK AND HONEY COFFEEHOUSE & GALLERY | 239 NORTH MARKET STREET| HOURS: MON- FRI 7:30 – 2
Another hidden gem downtown is Milk & Honey Coffee House. Located downtown, Wilmington, is a small shop with great food and coffee. Also, it is located in the same building as your local FedEx office. On my route to Philadelphia, I will usually stop by to grab a quick coffee and bagel. They offer indoor dining and coffee in La Colombe Coffee. What I love most about this shop is the local homemade bakery items.
Don’t get me wrong, I love a good Starbucks and Dunkin Run, but the locals do it best.
