Delco is Coffee (and More!) Central

We’ve been known to frequently say, “Gotta have a Wawa!” With all due respect, however, we love to tuck into a local coffee shop or cafe and relax over a cup, a nibble, or we grab some to go. These small-business favorites keep Delco fueled and fed (and by fed, we mean treats, too!).

The next time you’re feeling the need for caffeine — or not, decaf drinkers! — plus a baked good, sandwich, smoothie, breakfast special … the list is vast … check into these Delco shops.


Photo by Burlap and Bean Roast House

Burlap and Bean Roast House

This family-owned and -operated coffee house and roastery is serious about global awareness by roasting 100 percent Fair Trade Certified and organic coffee. Sit back and admire the local artwork as you sip any number of coffee and tea drinks, and bite into a fresh donut from Springfield’s own Firehouse Donuts, or a well-appointed seasonal toast, porridge and more. Keep an eye on coffeehouse events for a fun time out. Hours vary by location; stay up-to-date here.

The Shops at Springton Pointe, 204 S. Newtown Street Rd., Newtown Square, (484) 427-4547; Delaware County Community College, 901 S. Media Line Rd., Media, (484) 427-4547; and 455 W. Baltimore Ave., Media, (484) 444-2533.

Photo courtesy of Chadds Cafe + Store

Chadds Cafe + Store

Within the walls of the historic Chadds Ford Barn Shops is this cozy community cafe. You can indulge in a selection of baked goods, or a frittata, salad, avocado toast, smoothie, soup, stromboli and more. But we usually settle on the daily scone (we always hope for strawberries and cream!) and a shot of espresso. Ask about gluten-free options, too! Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (and there’s outdoor seating in nice weather).

1609 Baltimore Pike, Suite 500, Chadds Ford, info@chaddsfordbarnshops.com. 


Café Isla

This owner-operated cafe bills itself as “something that isn’t home, something that isn’t work — a place of respite, an island.” It doesn’t disappoint! Choose from a robust menu of handcrafted coffee, tea, milkshakes, purees and other drinks; we’re digging the velvety draft oak milk latte. The food is as diverse, from bagels to sandwiches, parfaits to quiche, and so much more, including vegan and gluten-free choices. Much is sourced locally to keep with the owners’ core values. Open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

24 S. Plum St. Media, (610) 627-2077.

Photo courtesy of Green Engine Coffee Company

Green Engine Coffee Company 

Sink into a couch or a comfy chair at this bright and airy neighborhood shop. The coffee is artisanal, the menu is seasonal and, as promised, it’s all “backed by kindness.” Enjoy hot and cold coffees and teas — many from the “green engine,” an emerald green La Marzocco GB/5 espresso machine. Pair your favorite — we like the Kyoto style cold brew that’s up to 24 hours in the making from the OJI drip tower — with a panini, salad, baked goods or gelato. Don’t miss the seasonal mocktails! Open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

16 Haverford Station Rd., Haverford, (610) 642-1700.

Irish Coffee Shop

Go old school here, with a twist. The unassuming storefront belies the goodness inside! No frills but filling, your cuppa joe will go great with an Irish breakfast, scones, pancakes, waffles and more — all at reasonable prices. You’ll be wowed by the selection of Irish packaged goods, too. You never know what treat from the old sod you’ll find: candies, cookies, jams, sauces, cereals, biscuits — the works! Open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

8443 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, (610) 449-7449.

Photo courtesy of Pines Café

Pines Café

Looking for what this cafe calls “an extra-large breakfast and lunch”? Look no further — and, enjoy the low prices, too! No fancy coffees or teas here — order yours with cream, sugar or black, and fill your belly with something from the diverse menu. Pick from biscuits and sausage gravy; pancake sliders stuffed with bacon, egg and cheese pastrami omelet; bennies; egg platters and more. Side of creamed chipped beef? Yes, please. Open seven days from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

500 E. Providence Rd. Aldan, (484) 461-3101.

Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Find us at 1501 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA, 19063; (610) 565-3679 or online.

Nina Malone

Feature photo: Burlap and Bean Roast House