By Kiersten Donahue
From classic lattes to coffee cocktails, here are three must-visit cafes in downtown Plattsburgh — each with its own unique vibe.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to study, a place to sip while listening to live music or an espresso martini, this coffee crawl offers something for everyone.
Stop #1: Chapter One
Stepping into Chapter One, the snug corners and golden lighting make it an inviting place to settle in with a book or laptop.
“We wanted to create a space where people can feel at home while enjoying a really good cup of coffee,” co-owner Tracy Vicory-Rosenquest said .
The cafe prides itself on sourcing locally and partners with Lakeside Coffee to roast its beans and Vermont Tea & Trading Company to provide the highest quality loose-leafs, ensuring a fresh, flavorful brew in every cup.
One standout drink is the Sacred Maple Latte, which is sweetened with pure maple syrup from Sacred Roots Maple, located in West Chazy. The latte pairs perfectly with pastries baked locally at Rulf’s Orchard in Peru.
Stop #2: Koffee Kat
Next on the crawl is Koffee Kat, an artsy, community-centered cafe where every visit feels welcoming.
“We try to be a little bit more calm than normal cafes, a little more chill. Sometimes walking into a cafe can be intimidating and everyone’s kind of stuck up. We try to be the opposite of that,” said Durgan Zappala, one of the current owners.
Events and live music are a big part of the Koffee Kat experience.
“We always have a rotating cast of different types of events,” Zappala explained. “We have an open mic every other Monday, live acoustic music and board game nights — even a chess club.”
The cafe’s cozy atmosphere and engaging events make it a favorite among students, locals and visitors.
For a sweet pick-me-up, Zappala recommends the French Toast Latte: “It’s our maple syrup from Gagnon Farms and organic cinnamon with espresso and milk. It’s my personal favorite.”
Stop #3: Irises Café & Wine Bar
For a twist on the traditional coffee crawl, Irises Cafe & Wine Bar brings coffee into the evening with its unique menu of coffee cocktails.
“We wanted to create drinks that combine the comfort of coffee with the fun of a cocktail. It’s a chance for people to experience coffee in a whole new way,” owner Carol McLean said.
The espresso martini and Irises’ House Coffee cocktail are standout choices and the cozy yet lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to end the crawl.
“We hope customers leave feeling energized, entertained and a little adventurous,” Mclean added.
From the calm, cozy study vibes at Chapter One to the artsy, community-driven energy of Koffee Kat, and finally to the warm welcoming charm at Irises, this downtown Plattsburgh coffee crawl highlights the variety and creativity of the local coffee scene. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a caffeine enthusiast, each stop offers a unique experience worth experiencing.
