Alleyway Cafe
Alleyway Cafe — photo 2
Alleyway Cafe — photo 3
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Alleyway Cafe

470 49th St, Oakland, CA

★★★★★4.7(15 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

Tucked into a quiet Oakland alley, Alleyway Cafe is a genuine haven for coffee lovers who appreciate both skilled espresso work and genuine human connection—the kind of place where baristas remember you're grabbing coffee for your friend's dog and toss in a treat. Whether you're lingering over a cortado in their charming courtyard or grabbing a perfectly balanced black iced coffee to go, the thoughtful, unhurried approach here feels refreshingly different from the usual coffee shop rush.

What to expect

MeetingsDog friendlySlow sitQuick grabSpecialty drinksTraditional drinksOutdoor seatingEspresso focusedCold brew

Google Reviews

Dominik Muro
★★★★★2 months ago

I stumbled upon this coffee shop after spotting the sweetest little sign that read, “for serious coffee lovers.” As someone who very much identifies with that title, I knew I had to step inside. I ordered a lightly sweetened rose vanilla latte (because if we’re being serious about coffee, we can still be romantic about it). While I waited, I noticed they brew with beans from Mother Tongue — one of my personal favorites — which immediately raised my expectations in the best way. And thankfully, the latte delivered. The flavor was beautifully balanced, floral without tasting like perfume, and the milk was frothed to silky perfection. They absolutely nailed the “lightly sweetened” request, which I genuinely appreciate. That said, when a shop brands itself as being for serious coffee lovers, I do secretly hope for a little latte art magic moment. I have an espresso machine at home, so when I go out, I’m not just chasing flavor, I’m also chasing that tiny cup of artistry and I’ve got to say that may be the only thing that wasn’t up to my standards. Still, the women working were warm, kind, and lovely to chat with while I waited, and that kind of hospitality always counts. Overall, a very solid cup from a spot that clearly cares about coffee and I’d happily return. ☕✨

Alison M C
★★★★★2 months ago

Good cortado and iced coffee too. Tasty, mellow flavor to the coffee. Barista was helpful, quick, friendly and chill. I was getting coffee for a friend w a dog and I asked to take a dog biscuit for my friend even though I don't have a dog and they said of course I could. Felt like a good neighborhood spot w lots of personality.

Kristiana Jordan
★★★★★6 months ago

Best coffee in Temescal. My go to is the brown sugar vanilla latte and my partner’s fav is their black iced coffee. Really love both! Great baristas, cute courtyard space

Jae M
★★★★★7 months ago

Location is on inner alley. Small counter with one Barista and one cashier. Good sound system. Mediocre pastry and coffee menu list. There are few tables for customers. You would probably pass it if you are driving by because of the location but this place has lots of potential

Andrea Hernandez
★★★★★8 months ago

Perfect place to catch up with friends or pawrents! Stopped by this morning and really enjoyed the atmosphere here! On top of that the baristas were very kind and helpful, I ordered a shakarato not knowing it did not come with milk and they were kind enough to offer the add on with milk free of charge. They also have pastries and sparkling drinks! The espresso was smooth and well rounded, not too strong or acidic which I enjoyed. Definitely will be making this cafe a regular stop for morning coffee runs. 😊

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