I love coffee. Hot, iced. Flavored. Regular brew, cold brew. I love it all. And as a mom, it’s become vital. The days of sleeping in on the weekend are over, and hello 6 a.m. Saturday and Sunday mornings. Typically I make coffee at home courtesy of my Keurig (one of the best inventions of the 21st century), but sometimes a store-bought drink is what really, really hits the spot.

As a Massachusetts native, I have grown up on Dunkin’ Donuts. And yes, Starbucks has a few menu items I enjoy. But I will always try to support local businesses, and I have a few favorite Boston coffee shops I turn to when I need a java fix.

Capitol Coffee House

Located right next to the State House, this aptly titled business offers breakfast items and sandwiches in addition to assorted coffees and teas. This place has been a staple in the Beacon Hill area with its friendly staff and awesome window seating.

P.S. Gourmet Coffee

This is the place to go if you’re a fan of flavored or iced coffee. Offering over 100 different flavors of coffee in both hot, iced, and mocha varieties, this business is committed to making fresh-brewed coffee. There are four locations, in South Boston, Roslindale, Braintree, and Dorchester, so there’s a good chance you have seen their yellow cups around town. PS is also home to “the bucket” — aka, a jumbo-sized cup. They also serve breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and Rickeys.

Ziggy’s Coffee Bar

This shop is great for a quick pit stop, but it also offers a full-service dining room with a full bar for breakfast and brunch. It’s owned by Beantown Pub, and the two businesses are connected. And the best part is, it’s conveniently located in downtown Boston.

Greenhills Irish Bakery

If you are looking for local charm and ambiance, Greenhills is the place. Set in the heavily Irish-populated Adams Village in Dorchester, rumor has it this shop feels like being right back in the Emerald Isle. They sell a variety of Irish and American baked goods and desserts and offer hot breakfast and lunch items as well as a decent sandwich selection. Additionally, Greenhills hosts a small sampling of Irish groceries. This place is frequently busy, so tables may be hard to come by — but they do offer a take-out option.

Lesley Moreau
Lesley grew up in New Bedford, MA, came to Boston for college, and stuck around. She holds a master's degree in criminal justice and an MFA in creative writing. Lesley is a playwright and has had her work produced in Boston, New York, New Hampshire, Virginia, and Texas. Lesley lives in Dorchester with her husband and 3-year-old son. She is a proud and unapologetic "one and done" mom. Lesley loves traveling, true crime docs and inspired scripted series, reading, coffee, face masks, and family game nights.