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TLDR
The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops has published its first-ever ranking for 2025, recognizing the top non-chain coffee shops worldwide. These rankings are based on a combination of public votes and expert evaluations, highlighting coffee shops that excel in areas like quality of coffee, barista expertise, customer service, innovation, and sustainability practices.
In this year’s rankings, five outstanding U.S. coffee shops have made a significant mark, securing spots in the global top 100. These cafes stand out not only for their exceptional brews but also for their commitment to community, sustainability, and innovation. Among them, two coffee shops—Prevail Coffee and Turbo Coffee—are Per Diem merchants, and we’re proud to highlight what they’ve achieved. Their dedication, combined with smart use of technology, has helped them streamline operations and uphold the high standards that earned them a place on this list. We’re proud to support their journey and share what makes these cafés true leaders in the global coffee scene for 2025.
1. Prevail Coffee – #2 in the USA, #17 Worldwide
Location: Alabama, USA
Website: Prevail Coffee
Why They Stand Out
Prevail Coffee has built a strong reputation for its dedication to ethical sourcing and sustainability. Their partnerships with farmers ensure that every bean supports responsible growing practices while delivering bold, complex flavors in each cup. Their attention to detail in roasting and brewing allows them to create an exceptional coffee experience that resonates with both casual drinkers and dedicated coffee enthusiasts.
Prevail Coffee also offers subscription rewards through the app called the Union Member program. This membership gives customers perks at their Union Cafes, including unlimited drip coffee, cold brew, and teas, plus a discount on a wide range of espresso drinks. It's a great way for regulars to enjoy more of what they love while saving on their favorite drinks.
A welcoming environment and knowledgeable staff make every visit memorable. Their seasonal drink offerings reflect both creativity and a deep understanding of flavor profiles, contributing to their impressive global ranking.
What Sets Them Apart
- Direct trade sourcing with ethical and sustainable partnerships
- High-level barista expertise through continuous staff development
- Consistent delivery of exceptional coffee quality
- Efficient operations and customer engagement powered by modern tech
2. Turbo Coffee – #12 in the USA, #72 Worldwide
Location: Alabama, USA
Website: Turbo Coffee
Why They Stand Out
Turbo Coffee’s dynamic and energetic approach has earned it a strong following in the U.S. coffee scene. Turbo Coffee is loved for its focus on health and wellness, offering fresh acai bowls, superfood smoothies, and delicious pastries. These wholesome options complement their inventive coffee specialties, making Turbo Coffee a go-to destination for health-conscious customers looking for both nourishing food and outstanding coffee.
Their dedication to maintaining high standards has earned them recognition as the #12 coffee shop in the USA, making them a destination for coffee lovers looking for fresh flavors and innovative drinks.
What Sets Them Apart
- A constantly evolving menu featuring creative, seasonal drinks
- Strong focus on adopting modern tech to cater today's customer needs
- Strong focus on customer service and building community connections
- Commitment to sustainable sourcing and health
3. Cafe Grumpy – #9 in the USA, #57 Worldwide
Location: New York, USA
Website: Cafe Grumpy
Why They Stand Out
A cornerstone of New York’s coffee scene, Cafe Grumpy is celebrated for its transparent, ethical sourcing practices and dedication to high-quality roasting. As a Certified Women-Owned Business Enterprise, they place a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusivity, fostering a welcoming environment for all. Each of their locations offers a cozy, minimalist space perfect for enjoying thoughtfully crafted brews.
Their commitment to excellence extends to their staff, with comprehensive training programs designed to foster top-tier barista skills. This focus on quality and consistency has made them one of the highest-ranked coffee shops globally.
What Sets Them Apart
- Strong commitment to ethical sourcing since 2009
- Advanced barista training and staff development
- Inviting, relaxed ambience for coffee lovers
- A playful mission to ensure even the grumpiest visitors leave with a smile
4. Seeds Coffee Company – #10 in the USA, #66 Worldwide
Location: Alabama, USA
Website: Seeds Coffee Company
Why They Stand Out
Seeds Coffee Company was built on the belief that coffee should be more than just a beverage—it should be a means of building relationships and fostering meaningful conversations. They are passionate about ethically sourced beans and developing close connections with their local community. Every cup they serve reflects a commitment to social responsibility and hospitality.
Their mission extends beyond brewing great coffee; it’s about encouraging human connection, reducing waste, and supporting ethical farming practices. This sense of purpose is what truly sets them apart, making Seeds Coffee a space where every customer feels welcomed and every sip tells a story.
What Sets Them Apart
- Sustainability-focused operations
- A community-driven space fostering meaningful connections
- Innovative brewing methods that honor coffee traditions
- Using coffee to inspire, serve, and build relationships
5. Silk City Coffee – #11 in the USA, #67 Worldwide
Location: Connecticut, USA
Website: Silk City Coffee
Why They Stand Out
Silk City Coffee is an independently owned specialty coffee shop located in the heart of Main Street, Manchester, Connecticut. Owned by two couples—Tammy and Glenn, Sarah and Rob—they understand the importance of teamwork and partnership in running a successful café. Their mission is to create a welcoming space where everyone feels valued, fostering community connections through great coffee.
Beyond serving fresh-brewed coffee, espresso drinks, and tea, Silk City Coffee offers a variety of house-made pastries, salads, and sandwiches, all made fresh in-shop. They actively partner with local programs and NGOs to support charitable initiatives and give back to their community.
What Sets Them Apart
- Active support for local communities in empowering them
- A well-balanced menu of classic and innovative coffee options
- Personalized, top-tier customer service
Final Thoughts
These five U.S. coffee shops have proven why they stand out on the global stage in 2025. Each one delivers outstanding coffee while staying true to their core values—whether that’s sustainability, innovation, or a strong connection to their local communities. Their commitment to quality, consistency, and customer experience sets them apart from the rest, making them leaders in the ever-evolving world of specialty coffee.
If you’re a coffee shop owner aiming to streamline operations and improve consistency, Per Diem offers a smart mobile app solution to help you stay ahead. It’s designed to simplify operations for your employees while enhancing customer experiences - an essential tool for those looking to lead the coffee industry forward in 2025.
Looking to grow your coffee shop’s global reputation? Discover how smarter technology can help you create the perfect brew—every time.
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