Let me be the first to say I think Starbucks is overrated. Did I say not to drink Starbucks? No. I have $135 that I primarily spend on Starbucks because I’m not going to let that go to waste. However, there is better coffee out there. I’m here to let you know where you can find it without leaving downtown Florence.

The first option is Rivertown Coffee. Rivertown has an atmosphere that is perfect for studying or hanging out with a small group of people. The lattes are most people’s favorite.

They also serve lunch every day until 2 p.m. and pizza from 6 – 9 p.m. This is the place you want to visit if you’re going to stay for a while.

Next is Woodpecker Café. The café is located inside Court Street Market, which is an incredible local venue in itself. Lyons Coffee Roasters, also in the market, roasts the coffee every week. They serve a wide array of coffee drinks, and their menu makes it easy to understand what you are getting.

The food is also amazing, and they serve brunch from 7 a.m. until noon daily. Even if you don’t go for food, I encourage anyone to swing by Court Street Market and check them out.

Last, but certainly not least, is Turbo Coffee. If you’re looking for the real deal, here it is. Turbo Coffee has only been open for about eight months, but business has been booming. The owner, Reese Shirey, not only trained at a “barista school,” but also goes to New York periodically to stay updated in the world of coffee. Turbo Coffee doesn’t currently have meals, but it usually has cookies, ice cream or doughnuts depending on what day you show up.

We’re becoming a generation that is willing to pay more for better quality. If we’re going to do that, then I want to help inform people about the best coffee in Florence. These three locations all have their perks. Check them out. Hopefully, you’ll be surprised by the quality coffee we have just a hop and a skip down the road.