The Better Bean
The Better Bean — photo 2
The Better Bean — photo 3
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The Better Bean

186 Main St #1R, Amherst, MA

★★★★★4.6(97 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

This Amherst spot draws visitors in with playful touches like a bubble machine outside, and once inside, you'll find a welcoming crew that's genuinely patient even when you're deliberating over their creative specialty drinks inspired by pop culture favorites like Gilmore Girls. The espresso-focused menu and thoughtfully crafted beverages shine brightest, though experiences here seem to vary widely—some customers rave about strong, delicious coffee and quality pastries, while others feel the pricing doesn't match the execution. If you're seeking an Instagram-worthy coffee shop with character and personality, it's worth a visit, but managing expectations around consistency and value might help.

What to expect

Specialty drinksSignature drinksSlow sitEspresso focusedLight foodMatcha & teaPastriesTraditional drinks

Google Reviews

Jay Stevie
★★★★4 months ago

I paid an insane amount of money for coffee and food that tasted like it was made out of spite, not ingredients. The quality is embarrassingly bad for prices that act like this place is a five-star luxury café instead of a disappointment factory. I walked in hopeful and walked out poorer, angrier, and questioning every life choice that led me here.

Karen White
★★★★4 months ago

Mid. Overpriced. Rude workers. Tried to make me pay for 3 lemonades when I only got one. They also are near a Dunkin’ compared to dunkin they are horrible and I will never come here again. I will say the town hypes this place up put it so overrated.

Emily
★★★★★7 months ago

The bubble machine outside led us in the shop. We loved the idea that it was basically calling us in. Once in the staff was hard at work but welcoming. Staff was friendly and patient as we looked over everything they had to offer. From items in the cold case to hot items to fresh baked goods, there is something for what your day brings. Coffee options as far as the eye can see will have you fueled for the day. Luke to my Lorelai was amazing, and not just because I loved the nod to Gilmore Girls 😉. The merchandise had a mix of the coffee shop swag to local supported crafts.

NS
★★★★★a year ago

What an adorable little coffee shop. I came here because I saw the Gilmore Girl’s drinks advertised on social media and I was not disappointed. The coffee is fantastic, strong, and delicious. The goodies are yummy. I got a bunch of baked goodies, and a bagel to go. The service is friendly, speedy, and the shop is quite lovely atmosphere wise. What a hidden gem in an otherwise quiet area. Love..love! Thanks for making my Gilmore Girl heart happy with the nostalgia. You nailed it, I really enjoyed everything and thank you!

Lifestyleoftrucker (Lifestyle Of Trucker)
★★★★★a year ago

I was able to try this famous bagel place here in Monson MA. Bagel with bacon was delicious so is my latte. People that work there very nice and polite. I would recommend place like this 👍 My name was Mike by the way 😀

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