Know Where Coffee

I’ve driven by Know Where Coffee for a while. I am a die hard Starbucks fan, but I am also a in love with the solely local coffee joint. A place where you can get your fingers on the pulse of the community, America runs on coffee after all. That is why I was excited to visit this café. Resting in a prime spot, but turbulent strip mall, on University Ave diagonal from Leonardo’s, Know Where is approaching it’s one year anniversary of business.
The seating area was a mix of bench and table seating, but there was soft seating with couches and easy chairs in the back. I would defiantly call the decore minimalistic, and the color palate was of green and blue pastels. Teas, coffee, and pastries were on the menu. There were a few featured beverages that could be made at the espresso bar, but the barista made it clear that the sky is the limit when it comes to making my beverage. The most in depth menu I saw was the coffee menu which had three offerings of hot coffee, and a cold press option. The barista was quite knowledgeable speaking to the flavor profile of each. When it comes to coffee regions, my preference is always either the African or Arabian region. So I chose the rawanda. That was when i discovered that there were five different methods to brew my coffee. I chose the chemex method, which I had read a great deal about on the internet. I must say I chose well. The rawandin coffee had a luxurious mouth feel. I picked up notes of tobacco, a hint of plum, and of course as it cooled the tartness of a slightly unripened stone fruit.
I enjoyed my visit to Know Where. The staff was knowledgeable, and the decore was laid back. It was clear they took their product seriously. I must say I was happy with the finished result as well. I will definitely be back. Know Where Coffee is freaking awesome!

AMAZING Mocha coffee is the besttt

Sweet spot, chill vibe, and not too hyped up. Coffee is flavorful and well made. I had the dark mocha which was bold and not too sweet. Overall good place to go, not too far from campus. Ideal for studying (during the day, since it isn’t open late), coffee dates, and intimate meetings.

Awesome little gem right by campus. It’s great to see a place that brews some of Florida’s best roasted coffee (ie. Buddy’s brew and Panther)
Walked in on a hot Sunday afternoon. Tons of people working on their laptops and nice dark ambience which lends to a decently cozy environment for studying. Some décor is needed on the counters and walls as it seemed a bit bare and lacked the warmth in that aspect that a coffee shop needs. Also found it strange to walk in and the register not being first. Had to pass the pick up station to get to register which is unlike any coffee shop I have visited.
Cold brew was killer and the best coffee I have had to date in Gainesville. Wish I could give half ratings because the place deserves a 5.

Let me preface this review by saying that: 1) I put waaaay too much thought into where my 100^th review would be for and 2) they were host to a Unilocaler event, but I’ve been a «Joe Shmoe» patron many, many times (check the check-​ins for my credentials)
The first review I ever wrote on Unilocal was inspired by how taken I was with the business I came to because of the Unilocal app. I was looking for a spot to grab coffee and get some work done, and found myself so impressed I had to express it. It’s only fitting that I arrive at the big HUNDO and choose to write about yet another dazzling café. Know Where Coffee is a business where impeccable product, chill atmosphere, and heartfelt enthusiasm all blend as seamlessly as do cream, sugar, and caffeine in your morning java.
The Space
Less than a block (east) away from the corner of University Ave. and 13^th St., Know Where Coffee sits among a few local businesses in a shared building. If you find yourself needing to stay a while, there is a lot behind the place but it’s somewhat of a chore to get to it due to how thin the side-​street is. I typically slip into a spot street-​side or, if making a super-​quick pitstop, chance parking at the Inn right beside them long enough to order one for the road.
Stepping into the shop, you’ll immediately feel the chill vibes: the warm lighting and delightful aroma are inviting, as is the décor. Whether grabbing real estate overlooking bustling University traffic or a table to hunker down and focus, there’s a spot with your name on it. Drag your weary soul to the counter, order, and await your mind’s best friend.
The Service
Having quality merchandise makes it easy to fall on laurels, and that’s when service slips. Total opposite with this crew: each member of the team is coffee-​crazy, so their passion resonates no matter the customer. I’ve been behind people in line who have little knowledge of coffee beyond cheap, over-​roasted sadness and they treat them as considerately as they do snobs like yours truly. No matter your level of fandom, they’re a fan of their customers.
One really important element they bring that I’ve found missing in other places is the sheer excitement to explain each brew method they offer for their coffees, as well as which bean works best with each roast. Not sure? They’ll help guide your decision based on preference and drink type. Trust that a place called «Know Where» knows HOW to get it done for you morning jolt.
The Goods
There can be a ton of variability when it comes to coffee beans. Region, roast, grind, season… all stand the chance of swaying the balance toward greatness or grossness. Speaking with the owner specifically, it’s clear that no bad beans make it anywhere near a cup o’ Joe in this establishment. I had a chat with him once about itching to bring in some beans from a specific region but, due to quality, he couldn’t feature that area. Talk about commitment to excellence.
I’ve had a few of brews at this point. His cold brew recipe is bold, rich, and carries a sweetness that will delight traditionalists of the coffee world. They offer a special on giant takeaway Mason jars of the brew that will nab you a nice discount. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with a single-​region brew made using one of the many brew methods. I, personally, am a fan of getting a little creative with a «Red Eye» because the espresso is top-​notch.
Final Thoughts
I’d say I wish they had more parking, but I don’t because that would mean more people get in on this gem. Then again, I know it’ll only be a matter of time before their brand gains recognition for quality, craft, and they start to plan for a very bright future. Wouldn’t be surprised to see new ideas and locations on the horizon for such a «buzz”-worthy biz.

This place is seriously a gem. I was so stressed out before I arrived. The minute I opened the door, the lighting and music soothed me. The whole place really feels like a comfy little nook.
There is ample seating even though it is really intimate. Most seats are near outlets so it really makes studying easy. The owners and baristas were so friendly! They really gave the place some heart. They are clearly from Miami, which made me feel even more comfortable because it reminded me of home.
The coffee was delicious. It was National Coffee Day so I got a free cold brew by following them on Instagram. The cold brew was a little acidic for my taste, but the brown sugar simple syrup they had really rounded out the flavors. To accompany my coffee, I purchased a macaron which was just ok. It was not as chewy as they should be.
I really like their whole mission. They want you to «Know Where» your coffee is from so the staff is really knowledgable on the beans. They have cuppings every once in a while that I would really like to attend.
The best part is that many of the coffees are our backyards! There are beans from Bold Bean in Jax and Panther Coffee in Miami. I love this place, but I wished that they had longer hours (they close at 7PM) and the parking lot was paved. It was a mission getting in and out without getting my car stuck in the giant pothole in the entrance.

Of the major Gainesville coffee shops (Volta, Coffee Culture, Maude’s, random Starbucks), this is definitely my favorite shop. The space is beautiful, all wooden counter tops, wooden flooring, very open space, not overcrowded. I was honestly surprised the first time I walked in. It reminded me of shops in bigger cities like Seattle, Miami, NYC, etc.
The first time I came I had iced white tea because it was the dead of summer. I was thinking, «$ 4.50 is a bit expensive for tea» (although other places charge as much). Then they served the tea on this really nice wooden tray in a giant 3-​cup mason jar. I sat for like 2 hours just sipping it.
Today I came in the morning and got some hot oolong tea, which they serve on the same really nice wooden tray in a small teapot with a timer set to when you should pour your tea. I thought that was awesome, nobody else does that.
Love it.

Description:
Know Where Coffee is the sleek, hip, and go to coffee spot you’ve been longing for in Gainesville. Tucked among small eating venues on University, Know Where Coffee provides a soothing yet almost adventurous feel to it when you first walk in. I first heard about this place from word of mouth and got to know the baristas better at a Unilocal event a few months ago.
As a minimalist, one of the first things that stood out to me about this place was its simplistic nature. Tables are neatly organized, the barista area is well-​maintained, and the menu is clean and offers insight into the types of brewing methods you can choose from. Pictures of coffee quotes fill the sides of the shop and give it a nice touch.
Food & Service:
The coffee here is delicious! I’m in no way an expert of coffee tasting but it’s hard to argue how fresh it tastes when you see the precision and drive that goes into making each cup of coffee regardless of the method of choice. The coffee is definitely on the pricier side but it’s understandable for its location and quality. I’ve had their cold brew, chai, and espresso here — all worth giving a try!
Honestly though, the reason I give this place 5 stars is because of the people working behind the counters. Alfonso and his team are very friendly and do a great job connecting with their customers. As a self proclaimed coffee lover, I have lots of questions and they’ve done an excellent job providing answers for me. Alfonso has gone into great detail describing the different methods to me, showing me their different coffee beans, and providing quality drinks quick. Even if you decide not to ask questions, watch them for a few minutes prepare drinks. I was mesmerized by the amount of detail and effort they put into one cup.
Final Thoughts:
Despite the tad higher prices and difficulty parking at times, Know Where Coffee is a must try in Gainesville especially if you are an avid coffee drinker. I will admit that their place is a tad small and could use some more tables (maybe more comfortable chairs too), but to me this place is an experience. Every time I visit, I leave with new found knowledge, a greater appreciation for coffee, and feeling awake and ready to tackle the rest of my day (maybe that’s the caffeine speaking…). Any who, if you haven’t tried this place already, please stop by. It’s local places like this with passionate people who love what they do that drives the Gainesville food community.

This update has been long overdue. When Know Where Coffee opened half a year ago, I loved the concept but there were definitely some bugs that needed to be worked out in the system. A few months later and I’m happy to say that this has become one of my favorite coffee places in all of Gainesville. Not only is the ambiance as chill and quiet as it has always been the employees run like a well-​oiled machine. They continuously strive to improve and test the boundaries of their coffee; I’ve heard talks of incorporating cryo-​preparation of some coffee which sounds extremely exciting especially for the nerd inside me. Come round fall they will be adding a rear wing to facilitate community activities. The employees are friendly and are even more passionate about their craft then I remember. With so many projects in the works, and an ever-​improving concept I sure know where to go for coffee. *Pun intended*
Their coffee beans come from Bold Bean in Jacksonville while their pastries come from Bearkery in Gainesville. Both of these businesses are fantastic at what they do and will meet the needs of even the pickiest coffee house-​goers. Overall a lovely place to spend the afternoon and get some work done.

This is my favorite coffee spot in Gainesville, and I have a lot of love for our local coffee shops. But these guys just get it. They’ve got a simple menu, they’re geeks about the brewing techniques and they only use quality coffees and teas. It’s fast becoming my favorite weekly staple.
Make sure to chat with Alfonso while you’re there if he’s in; he’s an expert and an artist. Seriously.

Know Where Coffee is the perfect artisan coffee shop with a latin twist. Amazing pastries with a good ethical sourcing for their coffees. I’m not a coffee guy, but they make their hot chocolates from candy bars! A great twist when you’re used to people making it from powders and syrups.
A smaller shop, its still pretty undiscovered so check it out. And get one of the Nutella breads! Its like a soft-​pretzal minus the salt, and filled with chocolate. I can easily see this place becoming a haven for students at UF.

Love this little coffee shop. The people that work here know their stuff. Its also great for supporting local businesses since most of their coffee is roasted in south Florida, Jacksonville or locally.
The cold brew is the best I’ve ever had. It’s perfect. Not too light or too strong, nor too acidic. I could taste the chocolate notes in the coffee. This is cold brew done the right way– 16 hours at room temp. This way there’s nothing else burdening the integrity of the coffee. And, there’s no burnt after taste which is a regular at other chain coffee shops. They have a plethora of methods to make your coffee– pour overs, etc. I can’t wait to try some of the other ones!
They also have some pastries to try. I got the Nutella bread and a macaroon. Some other goodies are to be had like the pan de Bön and the red velvet truffles. Yum!

Great coffee joint in Gainsville! Friendly service, great cappuccinos, great macchiatos, and FANTASTIC Nutella bread. Chill spot for getting work done, too.