Best espresso in Newton, MA

[doritmoshe]

Hi, we'll stay in Newton during the weekend and we're looking for a good place to get espresso early in the morning (~8am). We are not looking for chains (Starbucks, etc).. We just care about the coffee quality.. We don't mind driving up to 10 minutes from Newton (but not to Downtown Boston, it's a little bit too far ..)

Thanks
Dorit.

[herzigma]

You might want to try the (not so new anymore) Lincoln Street Cafe in Newton Highlands. The owner (the slim middle aged man) knows how to make a pretty good espresso.

[Velda Mae]

As much as I like to support independents, I don't see what the fuss is about the Lincoln Street Cafe. The last time I was there my barista poured the dregs of two thermal carafes into a single cup because she was running low on brewed coffee. Ick!

As for Peet's in Coolidge Corner, the downside is that it is much harder to get a seat there than it is at the one in Newton Centre.

[lergnom]

Newton is a big place. If you are near BC and Chestnut Hill, you can go into Coolidge Corner, Brookline. There you have a choice of Peet's on Harvard Street, one block from Beacon, or Cafe La Scala, in the Arcade Building. Cafe La Scala is a tiny cafe with seating in the atrium of the Arcade.

[Science Chick]

You might also want to check out Bakers' Best on Lincoln street in Newton Highlands. Nice baked goods, and you can sit and relax. Not sure if they have "real" cups, etc, or just paper.....other hounds may know???

[Velda Mae]

I third the Peet's suggestion. The quality is outstanding and they'll serve your espresso in a real cup and saucer if you're staying in the cafe.

[finlero]

Fourth it. I hate recommending chains, but Peet's espresso is sublime.

[thegolferbitch]

You may want to venture down Beacon Street (same street that Peets is on, too, and Peet's IS good) into Brookline. Try Athan's on the corner of Beacon and Washington Streets. Athan's opens at 8am. Nice pastries also.

[Blumie]

It violates your "no chains" request, but Peet's in Newton Center has far better espresso than Starbuck's. I can't think of a better place in Newton.