Best Spots (Coffee shops, libraries, etc.) in Houston to Read a Book and Chill.
“Where in Houston can I casually go and read a book (i.e., coffee shops & just chill spots)?”
I recently posted on Threads; “Where in Houston can I casually go and read a book (i.e., coffee shops & just chill spots)? Excluding the library. Outside is just too hot to go to a park. 😭” To my surprise, I received an overwhelming number of responses! I’m thrilled because I love discovering new spaces to work outside my home.
Below, I’ve curated a list of recommended spots, categorized by type and area, and excluded chain establishments like Starbucks. As I visit these places, I will include information such as Wi-Fi availability, parking options, and ambiance. I will continue to add more local spots recommended via Threads and in general. Feel free to drop your recommendations below!
Explore the List on Google Maps
To make it even easier for you to find these great spots, I've created a Google Maps list with all the locations mentioned in this blog. You can access the map by clicking the link below:
Explore Houston's Best Spots to Read a Book and Chill on Google Maps
Jump to:
Coffee Shops (List last updated: 08|19|2024)
The Heights:
One of my favorite meals to order from Roast & Brew Coffee shop in the Heights.
Roast & Brew | Address: 931 W 19th St, Houston, TX 77008
Food: Serves breakfast all day, including a breakfast croissant meal.
Tea: Offers an assortment of teas served in colorful teapots, including lavender tea.
Vibe: Unique atmosphere influenced by European culture.
Parking: On-property parking available, but may require street parking due to limited space.
Antidote Coffee | Address: 729 Studewood St, Houston, TX 77007
Vibe: Quiet and chill, possibly due to the middle of the day on a Friday.
Food: No kitchen, but offers desserts, cold wraps, and sandwiches; accessible microwave available.
Personal Experience: Muffin was okay—might have been better if warmed up.
Parking: Limited; other businesses in the plaza have reserved spots.
Wi-Fi: Code provided on the receipt after purchase, but not used during visit.
Wild | Address: 2121 N Shepherd Dr Suite C, Houston, TX 77008
Coffee House at West End | Address: 802 Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77007
Downtown:
Classic Breakfast at Toute Suite!
Toute Suite | Address: 2001 Commerce St, Houston, TX 77002
Atmosphere: Great vibes and open atmosphere; various seating options inside.
Food: Fresh juices and desserts are really good.
Classic Breakfast: Recommended; turkey bacon and biscuit substituted for pork bacon and toast.
Chicken Sandwich: Taste not memorable, but not negative.
Next Try: Planning to try avocado toast next time.
Parking: Good for downtown; no need to pay for parking.
Bathroom: Situation is a little interesting.
Brass Tacks | Address: 612 Live Oak St, Houston, TX 77003
Day 6 Coffee | Address: 910 Prairie St, Houston, TX 77002
The Rado MKT | Address: 2310 Elgin St, Houston, TX 77004
Midtown
13° Celsius | Address: 3000 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77004
The Nook Cafe | Address: 701 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77004
Third Ward:
Kindred Bookstore | Address: 2304 Stuart St, Houston, TX 77004
EaDo:
Bohemeos | Address: 708 Telephone Rd, Houston, TX 77023
Segundo Coffee Lab | Address: 711 Milby St, Houston, TX 77023 & 6865 Lawndale St, Houston, TX 77023
Neighbors| Address: 3401 Harrisburg Blvd Suite A, Houston, TX 77003
Eden Plant Co. | Address: 3401 Harrisburg Blvd Suite J, Houston, TX 77003
Montrose:
Agora Coffee Shop | Address: 1712 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098
Cafe Brasil Houston | Address: 2604 Dunlavy St, Houston, TX 77006
DUO Coffee & Pilates | Address: 2147 Westheimer Rd Suite A, Houston, TX 77098
Wild | Address: 1609 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
Siphon Coffee | Address: 701 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006
Campesino Coffee House | Address: 2602 Waugh Dr, Houston, TX 77006
Garden Oaks:
Slowpokes | Address: 1203 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018
Upper Kirby:
Sonoma Wine & Cheese | Address: 2720 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77098
Memorial:
Verbena Coffee | Address: 14029 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079
Spring Branch:
The Library Wine Bar | Address: 8510 Long Point Rd, Houston, TX 77055
Libraries
Central:
Houston Public Library - Central Library
Address: 500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77002
Montrose:
Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library
Address: 4100 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
Parks (for cooler days)
Hermann Park:
McGovern Centennial Gardens
Address: 1500 Hermann Dr, Houston, TX 77004
Buffalo Bayou Park:
The Water Works
Address: 105 Sabine St, Houston, TX 77007
I will continue to add more local spots to the list as recommended via Threads and in general! Feel free to drop your recommendations below!