Motherhood: Powered by Love, Fueled by Coffee

I think it’s safe to say that for most parents, coffee is an essential part of life. Which is why it’s not surprising that I have parents ask me where to get coffee in Andover after their session. And luckily, there are plenty of great options within a short drive (or walk!) from the studio.

1. Somebody’s Place

Steps away from our door, our neighbor Somebody’s Place is definitely the closest option for coffee. And we think they are definitely one of the best! Just minutes from Route 93, and with a large parking lot, they’re a great option even if you’re not going straight from (or before) a photo shoot.

They also have a great selection of sandwiches (both breakfast and lunch), salads, and more. And just an insider tip — make sure you grab a donut! They’re seriously amazing. You don’t even have to take our word for it, check out their yelp reviews!

Another great thing about Somebody’s Place’s donuts? They make for the prefect donut smash! Haven’t heard of a donut smash? That’s okay, we don’t blame you. They’re a newer idea, and just a play on a traditional cake smash. But instead of cakes, we said let there be donuts!

2. Crack’d Kitchen & Coffee

This one is brand new and I am beyond impressed. Crack’d Kitchen & Coffee a bit further away than the others on this list, but it’s very conveniently located right off of Route 93 and is definitely worth the few minute drive from the studio.

I’ve been driving past this location and eagerly waiting for it to open, and I wasted no time. I literally went in on their very first day. It’s so cute inside and they have a great menu. The Crack’d credo is all about “Culture First” which I can definitely get behind. Everything is local, fresh, responsibly sourced. I dig it.

Also, they have a coffee drink called ‘Nostalgia’ made with cereal milk. I mean, come on.

3. Ultimate Perk

This one is a little further away, but only a four minute drive from the studio. Right in downtown Andover, Ultimate Perk is the kind of small town coffee shop that locals rave about. A large assortment of flavored coffees (hot and iced) make them a great choice. And when the weather is nice, they even have outdoor seating.

Downtown Andover is a picturesque New England downtown, and Ultimate Perk is right at the end of Main Street. There’s a good amount of on street parking and even a pay to park lot right across the street. The perfect spot to park, grab a coffee, and go for a walk around downtown. Or head down the side street Punchard Ave to take a stroll through the park!

But just a quick tip — they only accept cash!

4. Caffe Nero

A British European style coffee house, Caffe Nero is a staple in the UK and made their way across the pond a few years ago and opened up a shop in downtown Andover not long after. They’re across the street from Ultimate Perk, close enough that Tom Brady could probably throw a football from one shop to the other.

They might not be a mom and pop kind of coffee shop, but they have an impressive selection of espresso drinks and pastries. Not to mention they have great aesthetic. This is definitely the place to go if you want to sit with a latte and your laptop and get some work done.

They’re right next to the park and pay lot, making them a convenient spot!

5. Perfectos Caffe

Perfectos Caffe is on the northern side of Main Street just before coming into downtown. It’s across from the fire/police station making it easy to find. Not only does Perfectos always have a huge selection of flavored coffee (peanut butter Oreo, blueberry cobbler, Twix, and more) but they have sandwiches and salads that make them much more than just a coffee shop.

They have other locations throughout northeastern Massachusetts and even have one in Kennebunk, Maine. A local favorite, you can always find someone in Andover to recommend their favorite coffee flavor or sandwich. (I go for whatever flavor looks craziest for my coffee and a tuna waldorf wrap for lunch!)

But ask anyone who knows Perfectos and they’ll tell you their bagels are a must try. Cheddar jalapeno or french toast are our recommendations!

Honorable Mention: Starbucks/Dunkin’ Donuts

For those who like to stick with what they know and love, there is both a Starbucks and a Dunkin’ right in downtown Andover. Dunkin’ is located on the southern side of Main St. right across from Ultimate Perk. Starbucks is located right in the center, a few doors down from the historic Old Town Hall.

Both options have on street parking available and both are located just a few steps from different pay to park parking lots. Either option lets you grab your preferred brew and take a stroll.

Crabapple Photography is locate in Andover MA and serves clients around the area including Billerica, Tewksbury, North Andover, Reading, and more. Kate McKenna is an Andover Photographer who has been specializing in newborn, baby, child, and family portrait photography since 2009. To learn more, contact Kate today!