Everyone has their coffee spot. The one they pop into on the school run, meet a friend for a catch-up, or grab a takeaway cup before a walk. Antrim & Newtownabbey might not shout about its coffee scene, but ask around and you’ll quickly realise there are some real local favourites.
This isn’t about trends or fancy latte art alone. It’s about good coffee, friendly faces, and places people actually go back to.
Here are some of the best coffee stops in Antrim & Newtownabbey, according to locals.
Third Day Coffee – Antrim
Third Day Coffee is one of those places that comes up again and again when locals are asked where to go for a proper coffee in Antrim.
Why people love it:
Consistently good coffee
Friendly, relaxed atmosphere
Great spot for a quick stop or a sit-in
It’s popular for a reason. Simple, well done, and welcoming.
Ground Espresso Bars – Various Locations
Ground has become a familiar sight across the borough, and while it’s part of a wider Northern Irish brand, it still feels very much part of local daily life.
What works well:
Reliable coffee every time
Plenty of seating for chatting or working
Handy locations in busy areas
It’s often the go-to meeting spot when no one can decide where to go.
Brown’s Coffee Co. – Ballyclare
Brown’s Coffee Co. has built a loyal following in Ballyclare, especially among people who like their coffee paired with something sweet.
Locals rate it for:
Strong, well-made coffee
Excellent traybakes and treats
A cosy, relaxed vibe
It’s the kind of place where you plan to stay five minutes… and end up staying longer.
Tiny House Coffee – Antrim Area
A favourite with those who appreciate independent coffee shops that keep things friendly and unpretentious.
Why it stands out:
Quality coffee without the fuss
Good value
Regular local customers (always a good sign)
It’s especially popular with people who just want a good cup of coffee on the go.
Fresh Ground Coffee Shops & Cafés (Local Independents)
Across Antrim & Newtownabbey, many smaller cafés serve surprisingly good coffee, even if coffee isn’t their main selling point.
Local favourites often have:
Baristas who remember your order
Decent takeaway coffee for walks
A relaxed, community feel
Sometimes the best coffee spots are the ones closest to home.
Coffee Stops Near Walks & Green Spaces
A lot of locals base their coffee choices around walks and Antrim & Newtownabbey is great for that.
Popular pairings include:
Coffee before or after a walk at Antrim Castle Gardens
A takeaway cup near Jordanstown Loughshore
Coffee stops along river walk in Randalstown
Coffee just tastes better when you’ve earned it with a walk.
Why Local Coffee Spots Matter
What really makes a coffee stop stand out in Antrim & Newtownabbey isn’t just the beans, it’s the people.
Locals value:
Friendly staff
A welcoming atmosphere
Somewhere that feels part of the community
These places become part of daily routines, not just somewhere to grab caffeine.
Final Thoughts
Antrim & Newtownabbey might not have a huge coffee scene, but it has something better, good local spots people genuinely enjoy.
If you’re looking to support local businesses, meet friends, or just enjoy a decent cup of coffee close to home, you don’t need to look far.
And chances are, your favourite spot didn’t make this list, yet. More coming soon!
That’s the beauty of a local coffee scene: there’s always another good one to discover.