Best Coffee Shops in Peoria: What kind of coffee shops are there in Peoria? There are lots of options, from fancy cafes to local dives. Which ones are worth visiting?
There are plenty of coffee shops in Peoria. Some of them are well-known and some are lesser known. If you live in Peoria, then you probably already know that there are some great places where you can get delicious coffee. Whether you prefer espresso drinks or lattes, you’ll find them all over town.
The ones that are well-known are usually located near shopping malls, restaurants, and other businesses. These locations are often crowded during peak hours.
Coffee Shops in Peoria: A Historical Guide
The first coffee shop in Peoria was opened by a man named John H. Johnson. He started the business in 1856 at what is now the corner of Main Street and Second Avenue. It was called the “Peoria House”.
In 1873, two more coffee houses were opened. One was called the “Central Coffee Shop”. It was located at the intersection of Fifth and Walnut Streets. The second was called the “Prairie City Coffee House”. It was also located at the intersection of 5th and Walnut Streets.
By 1880, there were about 30 coffee houses in Peoria. Most of them were small operations. Only three had more than 100 seats. They included the “Peoria Coffee Company”, the “Peoria Union Coffee House”, and the “Peoria Cafe”.
Old coffee shops have been replaced with new ones. However, many of the old buildings still stand today. You can visit these historic sites if you want to learn more about the history of Peoria.
Today, there are over 400 coffee shops in Peoria alone. Many of them offer free WiFi access. Others charge for it. Some even allow customers to use their computers while they drink their coffee.
Best Coffee Shops in “ Peoria ”
If you want to get the best cup of joe around, then you’ll need to know where to go, here’s a list of some of the best coffee shops in Peoria:
1) “The Beanery”
This place has been serving up amazing coffee since 1993. It was founded by a couple who wanted to create a space where people could come together and enjoy each other’s company.
They offer a variety of beverages including lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, and espressos. Their specialty is their iced coffee. This is made with cold brew coffee and topped off with ice cream.
Hours: Monday – Friday 7 am – 9 pm; Saturday 8 am – 6 pm; Sunday 10 am – 4 pm
Address: 1501 W. Main St., Peoria, IL 61604
2) “Bella Luna Café”
This café has been open since 2008 by a husband and wife team. They specialize in Italian food as well as coffee.
They offer a wide selection of coffees including Americano, latte macchiato, cappuccino, espresso, and more. Their menu includes pastries, sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts.
Hours: Monday – Thursday 7 am – 11 pm; Friday 7 am – 12 midnight; Saturday 8 am – 12 midnight; Sunday 9 am – 11 pm
Address: 1410 N. First Ave., Peoria, IL 62501
3) “Blue Moon Espresso Bar & Bakery”
It is one of the oldest coffee shops in Peoria and it has been operating since 1926. It offers a variety of baked goods like muffins, scones, cookies, cakes, pies, and more.
Their specialty is their breakfast items. They serve everything from omelets to pancakes.
Hours: Monday-Friday 7 am – 3 pm; Saturday 8 am– 2 pm; Sunday 9 am – 1 pm
Address: 1321 S. Fourth St., Peoria, Illinois 61602
4) “Caffe Roma”
This is another great spot to grab a cup of coffee. It has been serving up delicious drinks since 1992. It started out as a neighborhood bar but eventually became a popular hangout for college students.
They offer a large selection of beverages including lattes and cappuccinos. They also offer an assortment of snacks like bagels, croissants, and pizza slices.
Hours: Monday-Thursday 7 am – 11 pm ; Friday 7 am – 12 noon; Saturday 8 am – 11pm; Sunday 9 am – 10 pm
Address: 1614 E. Main St., Peorian, IL 61615
5) “Cafe Del Mar”
It has been open since 1998. The owners decided to name this establishment after the famous song “Del Mar” by Jimmy Buffett.
They offer a full menu that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert options. They also offer a variety of alcoholic beverages.
You can order your food at the counter or sit down inside and eat at tables. They have both indoor and outdoor seating.
Hours: Monday through Friday 7 am – 10 pm; Saturday 8 am – 10 pm; Sunday 9 am – 10 pm
Address: 519 S. Third St., Peoria, Il 61601
6) “Café Mina”
This cafe opened its doors in 2011. It specializes in Mexican cuisine. You will find all sorts of dishes on their menu including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, enchiladas, tamales, churros, and more.
They offer a number of different beverages including teas, milkshakes, frappes, smoothies, and more.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 7 am – 9 pm, Friday 7 am – 10 pm, Saturday 8 am – 10 pm, Sunday 9 am – 9 pm
Address: 1805 S. Sixth St., Peoria, Ill 61603
7) “The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf”
This place was founded in 1996. It is located right off of I-74. It serves up a variety of foods and beverages.
They offer a variety of hot and cold beverages such as iced tea, lemonade, and more. They also offer a nice selection of baked goods like muffin, donuts, cookies, brownies, cake pops, and more.
If you are looking for something sweet, they offer a variety of desserts like ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, and more.
If you want to get some work done while grabbing a bite to eat, they offer free Wi-Fi access.
Hours: Monday – Friday 7 am – 11 pm, Saturday 8 am–11 pm, Sunday 9 am–9 pm
Address: 1706 W. Washington St., Peoria, IL 61604
8) “The Coffee House”
This café is located right next to the University of Arizona campus. It is known for being a favorite among students.
They offer various types of coffees including espresso, latte, mocha, and more. They offer a wide range of other beverages too. They offer a nice selection of pastries, bread, and sweets. If you need a quick snack, they offer a variety of chips, pretzels, popcorn, and more.
There is plenty of parking available outside.
Hours: Monday -Friday 7am – 2pm, Saturday 8am – 1pm, Sunday 9am – 1pm
Address: 2300 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85705
9) “Peoria Coffee Company”
It has been open in 1988 by the same family.
This coffee shop offers a variety of drinks including espresso, latte macchiato, cappuccino, and more. They serve a variety of baked goods like scones, muffins, cakes, pies, and more.
You can choose from a few different seating areas. There is a small area where you can grab a seat and enjoy your beverage. Or if you prefer, there is an area with couches and chairs where you can relax and read a book or magazine.
Hours: Monday – Friday 7am – 3pm, Saturday 8am–3pm, Sunday 9am–2pm
Address: 1310 E. Main Street, Peoria, IL 61553
10) “Mama Mia’s Cafe”
This cafe is located in downtown Peoria. It is owned by two sisters who run it together. The menu includes pizza, pasta, salads, soups, and more. Their specialty is Italian food. They offer a variety of pizzas, calzones, lasagna, spaghetti, ravioli, and more.
In addition to their delicious food, Mama Mia’s Cafe offers a large selection of beverages. They have a full bar that offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
Hours: Monday through Friday 5:30 am – 12 midnight, Saturday 5:30 am – 11 pm, Sunday 5:30 am – 10 pm
Address: 1501 W. Adams St., Peoria, Il 61602
Final Thoughts
Peorians love their coffee shops! Whether you are looking for a quiet spot to study or a lively atmosphere to meet friends, these places will definitely fit the bill. You can find all kinds of coffee shops here. Some specialize in certain types of drinks, others offer a variety of items on their menus. Whatever type of coffee shop you are looking for, these ten cafes will surely satisfy your cravings!
Which one do you think is best? Let us know in the comments below!