Winter in East Sacramento calls for cozy corners, steaming mugs, and flavors that hit like a hug. Here’s where to find both caffeine and character this season.
Pachamama Coffee: Coffee With a Conscience
Location: 3644 J Street, Sacramento
Hours: Weekdays 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM / Weekends 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
This spot isn’t just about coffee—it’s about farmers. Owned entirely by small-scale growers from Peru, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico, and Ethiopia, every sip supports their livelihoods. Try the Ethiopia Yirgacheffe for floral notes or the Nicaragua Río Coco for a chocolatey kick. Their winter-ready gift box features five single-origin organic coffees, perfect for gifting (or hoarding). Bonus: They’re certified organic and prioritize shade-grown beans that protect soil health.
Tupelo Coffee & Roasting: Creativity in a Cup
Location: 5700 Elvas Ave, Sacramento
Hours: Daily 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tupelo’s menu reads like a caffeine-fueled novel. The Aztec Mocha—a spicy mix of Mexican hot chocolate, espresso, honey, and cayenne—will thaw even the chilliest toes. Prefer something sweet? The Toast and Jam Latte blends blackberry syrup and espresso for a breakfast-inspired treat. Locals rave about the laid-back vibe, free Wi-Fi, and outdoor seating (yes, even in winter). Pro tip: Pair your drink with a blueberry muffin, which regulars swear has a “slightly savory” twist.
Café Dantorels: Cozy Meets Quirky
Location: 2700 24th St, Sacramento
Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Open late and full of charm, this café doubles as a wine bar and taco spot. Winter calls for their Lavender Latte (floral but not perfume-y) or the Mexican Hot Chocolate topped with whipped cream. Feeling adventurous? Add a shot of Choco Noir liqueur to any coffee. The mismatched furniture and string lights create a less “trendy coffee shop” vibe and more “your cool aunt’s living room.”
The Mill Elvas Avenue Cafe: No-Frills, All Flavor
Location: 6423 Elvas Ave, Sacramento
Skip the pretension and head here for straightforward quality. Their Fresh Crop Blend is a crowd-pleaser with bright acidity, while the Spectacles Bear Organic Peruvian offers nutty caramel notes. Though hours aren’t listed, regulars insist it’s worth the gamble—just follow the smell of freshly ground beans.
Temple Coffee Roasters: For the Purists
Location: 4201 H Street, Sacramento
Hours: Daily 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Temple takes coffee seriously—think traceable sourcing and prices that support farmers directly. Their Ethiopian Guji (light roast) bursts with berry flavors, while the Espresso Blend balances sweetness and depth. The industrial-chic space with communal tables is ideal for winter work sessions. Pro move: Grab a bag of beans and try their online brewing tutorials for barista-level results at home.
Whether you’re after a spicy mocha, a late-night latte, or a cup that supports farmers worldwide, East Sacramento’s coffee scene has your winter cravings covered. Just remember: mittens are optional, but these stops aren’t.
Sources: pachamamacoffee.com, cafedantorels.com, Tupelo Coffee Instagram Page, themillsacramento.com, templecoffee.com
Header Image Source: Anastasiia Chepinska on Unsplash
