Lancaster's Locally Owned Coffee Shops

If you're from Lancaster, you know why you love it: Country meets City, Conservative meshes with Liberal, and chains and franchises vs. local joints. If you're on the road and in a rush, the Starbucks drive through might be your best choice. If you're looking for great coffee, live music, and engaging conversation, look at a local level. Here is my input on Lancaster's three best local coffee joints:

Cross Keys Coffee

Located within walking distance of Market, Cross Keys is a "must stop" on your way there. You might be deceived by their low coffee princes, but don't let that fool you. Cross keys offers some of the most flavorful and quality coffee in Lancaster. In addition, they boast one of the widest selections of tea. If you like your cup of Joe and want more, ask for a bag of coffee and they will grind the beans fresh while you wait. With its selection of mugs, coffee accessories, and brewers, there are plenty of items that you'll want to put on your wish list. The only negative of Cross Keys is the lack of seating and conversation. Sometimes awkward, sometimes full, keeps Cross Keys on my places to pit stop "on the go." Located at 34 North Queen Street, be sure to keep your eyes open as you may miss this gem.

Square One

If you're conscious of fair trade, economic development and assisting those in need, you'll become a regular of Square One coffee. Square One serves Fair Trade Certified products. Fair trade gives farmers a chance to sell their goods at a fair price, which in turn helps them invest, support their families and boots their economies. Although somewhat of a granola crowd, you'll quickly become friends with the regulars. The husband and wife duo that owns the shop can often be found there saying hello to visitors. Strike up a convo with a staff member or read their bios on www.squareonecoffee.com. and you'll be making friends in no time. Square One is one of few local coffee joints where you can purchase bags of coffee online. The downside of Square One is it's small shop, but on summer nights many park their bikes on the stoop and the convos take place on Duke Street. Located at 145 North Duke Street it's an easy find. Be there Mon.-Fri. 7am-11pm and Sat. & Sun. 9am - 11pm.

Prince Street Café

Prince Street is my top pick of all three. It offers a great combination of community, events, large space and tasty treats. Prince Street offers ample seating, tables and sofas for over 60 customers. They also provide several tables outside to enjoy the summer nights. At 15 N. Prince Street, across from the Fulton, if you're lucky enough to score a window seat, you've just found the best people watching spot in downtown. Never a dull moment at Prince Street! With live music every Monday and third Friday of the month, you're bound to find your next favorite local band. Prince Street also promotes the arts, as you'll find local pieces displayed on the walls. Julia Schwartz's studio is above Prince and often opens to browse. Unlike the others, Prince Street Café can be rented on Sunday evenings, or can cater events. Prince Street is also for the economically concerned. Many of their products are Fair trade, supports charities, and they buy local from Lancaster. Their menu boasts gourmet coffees, loose-leaf teas, smoothies, shakes, desserts, cookies and pies. They also have the favorite snacks: and the popular cereal bar. While their drip coffees support great causes, the taste isn't up to par, however; this can be easily overlooked when engaging in great conversations, games and music with friends. Prince Street also offers the best hours of the three. Check them out online: www.princestreetcafe.com or in person:

Monday - Thursday
6:30 am - 11:00 pm
Friday - Saturday -- open late nights!
6:30 am - 2:00 am
Sunday
6:30 - 3:00 pm