Looking for the best place to get coffee in Mammoth? The good news is, with our chilly winters, we know exactly how to brew up the perfect cup. There are plenty of coffee shops around town that are sure to warm you up and wake you up. You just have to know where to look!
But first, is it really safe to drink coffee at high altitude?
Before we jump into our list of the best Mammoth lakes coffee shops, you might be wondering whether there are any adverse side effects to drinking coffee at high altitude.
As it turns out, coffee-lovers can rejoice! As a study from High Altitude Medicine and Biology found, drinking caffeine at elevation can actually provide some health benefits, such as a boost in circulation, lung function, and brain activity. That’s great for anyone who plans on spending their time in Mammoth Lakes skiing, swimming, biking, hiking, or other outdoor activity.
Okay, but how about coffee at a diuretic? Isn’t it likely to lead to dehydration at high altitude? While it is true that coffee makes you need more frequent bathroom breaks, studies have found that the dehydrating effect is mostly a myth. That said, high altitude does increase your likelihood of dehydration, so make sure you're drinking plenty of water between espressos.
And, now that science has given you full permission to drink coffee while you’re here, where in Mammoth will you find the best brew?
The Looney Bean
26 Old Mammoth Road
This is one of our town’s oldest and most beloved coffee shops. It was first founded in 1992, and has since expanded to locations in Bishop, Colorado, and Oregon.
“The Bean” roasts their own coffee in house, which means that you’ll always get fresh, flavorful coffee every time you visit. They also bake up their own pastries daily to give you some energy before you head up to the mountain.
Another thing we love about Looney Bean is that their shop showcases the work of local artists. If you’re looking for a last-minute gift or memory to bring home from Mammoth, make sure to give yourself extra time to look at the mugs, clothing, jewelry, and paintings they have on display.
Stellar Brew
3280 Main St.
The blue exterior of Stellar Brew is as welcoming and fun as it is iconic in the Mammoth Lakes landscape. It simply looks like a place that you want to venture into. Once inside, you can enjoy the cabiny feel of another of Mammoth’s classic coffee shops.
Stellar Brew is dedicated to using fresh, organic ingredients in their drink and food options. And they’re most well-known for their hearty, delicious breakfast burritos. You have to head over there early, though, because they typically sell out pretty quick.
Mammoth Coffee Roasting Co.
436 Old Mammoth Road
This coffee shop has only been around since 2017, and its quickly become a staple feature in our town. Its central location and great coffee means that it’s always full of locals and visitors alike. So whether you’re heading up to Eagle Lodge or making a trip to Vons, it simply makes sense to stop in at Mammoth Coffee Roasting Co. for a coffee to go.
Want to enjoy MCR’s coffee at home? Not only can you buy bags of freshly-roasted beans to take with you, but they also offer a monthly subscription service. That way, you can have a taste of the mountains even after your trip to Mammoth Lakes is over.
Now, what really sets this coffee shop apart? The donuts! They’ve got a wide variety of delicious donuts, and even some vegan options.
Black Velvet Espresso Bar
3343 Main St
If you’re looking for one of the most sophisticated coffee shops in town, you’ll be thoroughly impressed by Black Velvet. Even though it’s a family-owned business, this Mammoth Lakes coffee shop is anything but folksy. Instead, they take a scientific approach to roasting and brewing that results in truly unique and high-quality coffee.
Not only do they specialize in craft coffee, but they also offer a range of craft beers both on tap and in cans.
To be sure, Black Velvet prices are on the higher end of the range for coffee in Mammoth. But, the ambiance and coffee is something special.
Daily Grind
4000 Meridian Blvd
If you find yourself at Juniper Springs Resort, don’t miss out on this sweet little coffee shop. It’s got all the feel of your traditional “cup of joe” place. And because it’s right next to Eagle Lodge, you won’t miss any time on the slopes by going into town for coffee. Simply order up a latte or the drink of your choice—they serve Starbucks coffee— and then head over to Eagle Express (Chair 15.) Fast, good quality, and about as convenient as it gets.
Shea Schat’s Bakery
3305 Main Street
Stepping into Shea Schat’s Bakery is like walking into a different era. Transport yourself to an Old World-style bakery where there are almost too many fresh donuts, chocolates, cakes, and cookies to choose from. Of course, if you’re going to indulge in all the sweets you could dream of, you’re going to want to wash it down with some strong coffee. And on that point, Schat’s delivers.
Keep in mind that this is one of the most popular bakeries in town. As such, there’s typically a long line and limited seating. But, while you wait, you’ll enjoy browsing their always-filled display cabinets featuring everything from croissants to fresh breads to marzipan candies.
Old New York Deli & Bakery Co
6201 Minaret Rd
Who says you can’t get a great New York-style bagel and coffee right here in California? Their bagels and other baked goods are made daily in-house, and they use 100% organic and locally roasted coffee.
And one other huge benefit of this casual eatery is the location. You can find Old New York Deli right in the Village for a quick bite to eat on your way up to Main or Canyon Lodge.
The Breakfast Club
2987 Main St.
Okay, this one is more breakfast restaurant than coffee shop. But ask any local and they’ll say that the coffee in the Breakfast Club is something to write home about. It’s, of course, bottomless, so you can drink to your heart’s content. But, it’s also quite strong, so you might want to limit yourself to a reasonable amount.
The Breakfast Club has been around since 1986, and it’s attracted everyone from locals, to skiers and snowboarders, to fishermen, to hikers wandering down from the PCT. Sure, you can get your coffee to go from the Starbucks right next door, but why not take a seat and enjoy the country-diner-in-the-mountains vibe, instead?
Speaking of Starbucks…
You can’t beat the convenience and reliability of Starbucks, and we certainly don’t blame anyone for making it their first stop when coming into town. Over the years, Starbucks has taken up shop in many different locations in Mammoth Lakes. But nowadays, you can find them at the old McDonald’s location on your way into town (2953 Main St.) or in Vons at the Minaret Village Shopping Center (481 Old Mammoth Road.)
Enjoy the caffeine buzz during your next trip to Mammoth Lakes
As you can see, we’ve got a lot of great coffee options to choose from here in town. So, take a break from the cold with a freshly brewed cup of joe and strike up a conversation with a local. We’re usually at our friendliest when we’ve got a latte in hand!
Curious to know which coffee shop is closest to your Mammoth Mountain Reservations condo? Give us a call and we'll direct you to the best coffee shop near you!