If I’ve learned anything in my 3+ years of living in Birmingham, it’s that this is a Southern town that, along with barbecue and SEC football, takes its coffee seriously. These are my favorite spots for camping out with a cup of coffee and getting some work done.

1. Octane.
This small little chain originated in Atlanta, moved into Homewood, and then up popped another one last November in the Westin. I prefer their lattes (as pictured above) to their coffee. Every single cup I’ve had here has been stronger and darker than my taste (but coffee aficionados would just say my palette isn’t as developed as they happily gulp down a cup of black coffee here). This is also a better place for meeting a friend for a coffee date than doing any actual work since it gets loud. The modern wood-filled space becomes a bar at night and they’ve got a good beer selection (not to mention make a mean cocktail!).

Food pairing: Their biscuits. With a impressive height that makes me wish I could unhinge my jaw to better eat them, the biscuits are best served with Cheddar cheese.

2. Urban Standard. 
The largest of the bunch, this shop is eclectically decorated with maps, vintage light fixtures, and an old leather couch. All coffee shops should be this cool. In a touch that makes me feel as if I’m at home with my soccer-loving parents on a Saturday in Virginia, they’ve got a TV tuned to a European football channel. And I dare you not to be tempted by the bakery case full of cupcakes, Nutella cake bites, and cookies.

Food pairing: You can’t go wrong with their grilled chicken panino served with basalmic jam.

3. Church Street Coffee and Books. 
They’ve got the friendliest baristas in Birmingham and their drinks come served in Mason jars–what more could you want from a coffee shop? Oh right, you’ll also find your next great read here with shelves of books for sale from authors like David Sedaris, Malcolm Gladwell, and more. It’s the smallest so you can’t always find a seat, but it does get points for taking over a space that used to be a Starbucks (when usually it’s the other way around.)

Food pairing: The Breakup Cookie is one of the most melty, gooey, delicious chocolate chip cookies I’ve ever had. Sprinkled with salt, this is the cookie that will cure all aliments.