Winter in Scarborough, Maine, means snow-dusted streets, frosty ocean views, and the urgent need for a hot drink strong enough to melt icicles. Scarborough’s coffee scene delivers—no pretentious latte art competitions here, just good brews and better vibes. Here’s where to thaw your fingers and caffeinate your soul.
Scarborough Grounds: Drive-Thru Comfort (With Biscuits)
Location: 264 US-1 | Hours: Mon-Fri 6 AM–2 PM, Sat-Sun 7 AM–2 PM
Skip the snow boots—this spot’s drive-thru serves nitro cold brew and caramel lattes faster than you can say “nor’easter.” Prefer to linger? Their garden patio (dog-friendly because even your shivering pup deserves a puppuccino) transforms into a winter wonderland with heat lamps. Try the egg-and-avocado breakfast sandwich on a buttermilk biscuit, or lean into the season with a frozen hot chocolate. Pro tip: Their almond milk doesn’t taste like sad cardboard.
St. Joe’s Cafe: Breakfast Sandwiches + Fried Dough Therapy
Location: 220 Gorham Rd | Hours: Weekdays 7:30 AM–2 PM, Weekends 8 AM–3 PM
This place treats breakfast like a contact sport. The Ranchero sandwich—scrambled eggs, guac, and pepper jack on an English muffin—could fuel a lobster boat crew. But the real star? The “Bennie,” their signature fried dough ball rolled in powdered sugar. Dip it in maple cinnamon sauce and pretend you’re not counting calories until spring. Coffee here is locally roasted, dark, and unapologetically strong. Gluten-free? They’ve got you covered (but the Bennies are worth the cheat day).
Coffee By Design: Maine’s OG Bean Wizards
Location: Multiple locals | Roasts: Single-origin Ethiopian, Dark Magic blend
These guys have been roasting beans since grunge was cool. Their Scarborough outpost serves velvety espresso and pastries flakier than a politician’s promises. Try the Dark Magic blend—it’s like drinking a campfire in the best way. Pair it with a raspberry-white chocolate scone and stare defiantly at the snowdrifts outside.
Honeycomb Cafe: The New Kid on the Block (Mystery Brews Included)
Location: 132 Pleasant Hill Rd
Scarborough’s caffeine landscape just got a fresh buzz with this newcomer. Details are scarcer than a seagull in a snowstorm, but the address checks out—swing by and play coffee detective. Rumor has it they’ve got a drive-thru for frostbitten Mainers and might even stock bear claws the size of your mittened hand.
Black Point Coffee: Beans So Fresh, They’ll Melt Your Snowbank
Location: 238 Black Point Rd | Hours: Vary (sunny days = open; stormy days = self-service cart)
This roastery doesn’t do “basic.” Their small-batch organic beans are roasted more carefully than you’ll ever give your winter tires. Grab a bag of their single-origin Ethiopian—it’s like sipping sunshine from a mug. No frills, no fuss: Swing by their roadside setup for a “grab-and-go” cup paired with a buttery scone. Bonus: They’re the brains behind the Congress Street Cocoa Sip-Off, so you know their hot chocolate game is Olympic-level.
From bold roasts to sweet treats on the side, these Scarborough coffee shops make winter feel a little less cold and a lot more delicious. Grab your mug and enjoy!
Sources: stjoescafe.com, coffeebydesign.com, Scarborough Grounds Facebook Page, honeycombcafe.me, blackpoint.coffee
Header Image Source: Crew on Unsplash
