Lovely friendly helpful staff as always. Wide variety of selections too! One of my go to witchy stores ever since I started my craft.

I try not to be biased in my reviews. I did end my visit early with my partner because we came to do some studying. However, there wasn't enough space to plug our laptops. Definitely recommend bringing an extension cord. Bri gave us an amazing tour. Staff is very friendly and welcoming. I diiiiid come across one of two beauties they mentioned in the tour. I believe their name was Voodoo (pictured). Voodoo told me to leave a review or they would visit me in my dreams. Task complete. read more

Books Beans & Candles - Voodoo The Cat - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

See all

So let me give this review of one of my favorite places in Birmingham. This is definitely a place you want to go if you're looking for say, a different experience. This is a metaphysical shop that offers many things to different people. Did I mention there is a coffee shop? I'll get to that later. When you walk in there are many statues, alters, etc. from various forms of religions. When you walk to the next room, there is a plethora of crystals, stones, quarts, amethysts. If you can think of it, they have it. Everything is in a row, and is organized perfectly. Mitchell, the owner is a wealth of knowledge, and so are any of the various employees working there. They are incredibly helpful to educate you on anything from the stones to the herb selection. Now let's get to the herb selection! This is like something straight out of Practical Magic. There is an extensive wall of herbs filled with shelves, all perfectly organized. Each herb will have a label. Always ask for help if you want to get the herbs because they don't like people going through there themselves. They are happy to weigh them out for you. Also, take this as another chance to ask what the various herbs are for, as there are so many. You may find something you've never seen before. As long as they aren't too busy, they're happy to help. From here, I will go to the coffee shop, which offers an array of drinks and snacks for people to enjoy within the shop or on the patio. I'd highly recommend the patio as it overlooks the quaint, southern city of Birmingham. Not to mention, you can catch a whiff of all of the fresh herbs Mitchell is growing in the breeze while looking at the hot stained glass windows on the front of the beautiful house. I am a coffee snob any day of the week, and I have never had a drink here that isn't absolutely delightful. The wicked goblin, the lavender latte, and the white rabbit are all highly recommended by me. I do believe you can get them hot or iced, and I don't believe the white rabbit actually has coffee. Sometimes you will see visitors playing games, doing tarot reading, etc. Mitchell himself does tarot readings. That is really what makes this place so special. After enjoying a latte, I would highly suggest taking a tour of the rest of the house. It is a marvelous house. The wooden floors are absolutely gorgeous as you walk up, what seems to be an enchanted staircase, from the room of crystal and stones. Expect a very different atmosphere once you get upstairs. I am not a practitioner, but I do believe this is a voodoo area. I'm not very familiar with it, but it is very neat to at least see once. It's sort of like having a piece of New Orleans nestled on the south side of Birmingham. The architecture of this home alone is worth exploring if you're not interested in the crystals and such. I do think if you visit once, you will find yourself returning back. It is such a lovely environment that everyone should experience at least once. read more

Books Beans & Candles - Shop - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

See all

Wow! All I can say is wow! This place is a gem of wonder and deciduous coffee!!! We were in town for a wedding and always love to check out a metaphysical store in the way. What a find!!!!! This stunning old house has been turned to a beautiful shop/coffee stop. It is full of rooms of different items and useful tools. Their decor is just stunning. They have two levels and upstairs is a lounge room to enjoy your coffee or play chess, or just meditate. I honestly wish we had a store like this back home. It was perfect. They also have a large range of pantheons and tools for crafting. So there will be something for you! I usually take pictures but it was requested on the doors no photos out of respect, so I didn't. But my goodness wow! Just wow! Obsessed! I honestly may make a trip back just to come visit! If you are anywhere near, visit. I swear to you it's worth it. read more

This is home away from home for spiritual people. Coffee is the very best. Best place for Tarot and astrology, too. read more

Books Beans & Candles - Ad for the house astrologer. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Very interesting bookstore! I went there for a meeting upstairs and did not have time to thoroughly explore, but I think I would probably go back. read more

Everything but the coffee was good. The iced coffee was so incredibly bitter and tasted like it was burned. The Taro smoothie I had was good. But that's the only thing I'd get. read more

A great metaphysical shop. The tarot readings were right on!!! The coffee was delicious and they have lots of unique items. read more

Books Beans & Candles - There is a balcony in the second floor with a great view to enjoy your coffee. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

A wonderful place to see and be seen. Their coffee bar is bar-non the best in the area. I had fun scratching my metaphysical itch.

I absolutely adore this place! it's energy is so warm and i go there almost every paycheck! I only wish they had more books on crystals and essential oils! love love love this place read more

I loved the vibe of this shop! I ordered a floral iced latte and it was delicious! The employees were super kind as well! While I waited for my coffee, I walked around and looked at all of the items for sale! I would absolutely recommend this shop! It is also very queer friendly! read more

After visiting this shop several times, I discovered they sold frappuccinos that are out of this world delicious. If they were a chain, Starbucks would be worried. There is one specifically called a White Rabbit that is bursting with flavors that pop in your mouth. I am officially an addict! I decided to stop in today and treat myself to a frapp and was completely disappointed. I ordered the White Rabbit and unlike its usual consistency, it was more like water. I told the lady who made it, that it was not made the way I usually get it. Then, she politely explained to me that it was a "frapp" as if I did not know what it was. I perceived that as her implying that I was stupid. Although she smiled the entire time, there was a sense of sarcasm in her tone. At this point, I was angry and just ready to pay and leave. However, the owner proceeded to take the drink and correct the issue. I greatly appreciated his efforts and attempt to resolve the problem, but the attitude of the woman who initially made it just killed my taste for it altogether. The owner is always friendly and helpful if you need assistance, which is why this quickly became my go to spot for everything I need. Even though I had this negative experience with my beverage, I still highly recommend them for any of your metaphysical needs. Also, I still cannot sleep on the drinks because they are really good as long as the blonde isn't making it. read more

Books Beans & Candles - The White Rabbit - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Great place to meet old friends and make new ones. Had an awesome kitty cat coffee. (White chocolate) read more

Books Beans & Candles - a woman sitting on a window sill - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Always amazing! Knowledgeable staff and super sensitive staff awesome atmosphere also!

Great service - friendly staff. Cool place to relax with a cup of coffee and browse or sit and read. read more

See all

I love this place. I'd say I go four or five times a year for the past ten years. My children and I like their collection of polished rocks and minerals, and the upstairs is reminiscent of one of those old-timey voo-doo shops in the French Quarter. They also have an eclectic assortment of statues (Greco-Roman gods, Indian and Egyptian deities, Wiccan and Satanic figures...) that is interesting to look at and shelves of books on tarot, runes, palmistry, and various other subjects I have no idea about, but think are neat to peruse. It's a great gift shop too: an entire room devoted to teas, spices, and herbs; jewelry counters displaying all kinds of amulets, poison rings, tiny Hindu figurines, jewelry, and a sacrificial alter. They have posters, crystals, incense, and a large room where they serve their own coffee and teas. It's quite a unique atmosphere: calm, therapeutic, and educational. I highly it recommend if you're in the area and looking for something different. read more

Very cool occult store. Super nice staff. Got there late one evening and was very impressed with how accommodating and helpful the establishment owner was. Really cool place a get a good cup of coffee as well. One of my most favorite places. read more

Awesome atmosphere. great people. Magical coffee and tea.

Amazing experience! Got several items and enjoyed a tarot card reading. Didn't try the coffee but definitely will be returning.

Best coffee in town. There's nothing bad to say about this place. Great freshly roasted coffee and espresso. Strong since of community and a variety of healthy living material for sale. read more

Books Beans & Candles - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

This is my favorite place to spend a Saturday in. The staff are ALWAYS welcoming and very eager to help if you ask. I know some people like to be left be when getting items for their practice. They are respectful of this and I think that is why some people believe they are not helpful. Ask and you shall receive. This is the only place I will shop for my herbs, teas, candles, and other odds and ends. I cannot sing enough praises of Mitchell and his staff read more

Came here after hearing great things about this place to buy some tea. Met a incredibly friendly and great staff and just all around great group of people and a decor that would occupy anyone for hours. Definitely a place you would want to go not only to relax & drink tea/coffee, but to just hang around with some friends & have a great time! read more

Mitch is always who I turn to for advice. Spiritual, ritualistic, etc. He always has wonderful recommendations for books and other items in the shop while paying attention to your needs. Furthermore, the drinks are out of this world good. Tea, blended drinks, coffee...all great. I also have bought several of my favorite jewelry pieces from this store that are very special to me. I recommend this place to everyone, it is a business I hope stays in Bham forever! read more

Don't go in here if you want to buy rocks or crystals. they charge 80$ for a freaking quartz crystal the size of pencils. it's ridiculously overpriced and as an experienced geology student it's laughable. i've found better stuff in tuscaloosa on the ground. and guess what... FOR FREE. no phones, no pictures, and got forbid you get a notification that can be heard outside your pocket. Got in trouble for touching a crystal i assumed was for sale because it on display but apparently it was "an alter". Such BS. i respect all beliefs and religious and am a spiritual person myself but this place is a total wack case. don't waste your time or money here. I was so excited when i entered and practically in tears when i left. Can't attach any photos because your phone isn't even allowed out in there. read more

This place has the best customer service and coffee. It is a perfect place to drink coffee and tea. Its so quiet and you can study or read a book. read more

This place rocks! I was looking for a place that sold loose leaf tea and they have a great variety! And omg the wall of fresh herbs is amazing! Definitely will be back! read more

Coffee was good, unfortunately they didn't have any desert option other than some candies that you would find in vending machines. They also sell pagan jewelry, sculptures, games and so forth. However I thought the crowd I happened to see here was not like you would think. Women in 40s who would have nothing to do with pagan collectibles or frp games. I realized that there were fortune telling area upstairs. And for the first time I saw "cellphones off" sign in a coffee shop. Anyways, if you need to grab coffee and leave, coffee is not bad but don't expect a bite or chit chat with your friends in this place. read more

Books Beans & Candles - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

I found multiple things for my Wiccan altar, and the cashier was very nice, and she helped me find what I needed.

I wanted to find an interesting coffee shop, and this was! The shop has all sorts of occult things, from books on Wican, to tarot card readings, to a fairly large collection of dried herb, candles, essential oils, stones, to swords and mini statues. We were greeted as we entered and shown around. The regulars are very friendly and helpful. The atmosphere was peaceful and the room wasn't too loud. My friend had a latte and seemed pleased. I had a milkshake, and it was good. Then, we browsed around and chatted for quite a while. My only disappointment was its hours. It closes at 8PM, I think. I would like to find a comfortable place that stays open longer. read more

This store is pretty awesome. I only rate it a 4 out of 5 because the top floor was not done when I went. The employee that helped me was very kind and informative and no one really bothered me while I was browsing. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and didn't feel pressured at all to purchase anything. Once the top floor is done this store will be a solid 5 out of 5. Anyone who is interested in the pagan or alternative lifestyles should give it a look. They have a wide selection of books, stones, herbs, teas, candles and statues. I haven't found a better place except in New Orleans. read more

I have really enjoyed the shop Books, Beans and Candles since they opened years ago. BBC provides alternative offerings to the eclectic, the curious and the brave. The atmosphere of the shop varies from time to time from quiet and mystical to spirited and jolly. I have found comfort occasionally in one of the big chairs with a lovely warm beverage. I am very thankful for this beautiful little haven nestled in the curve of Red Mountain! read more

This is probably the best little non secret in southside ever. With essential oils, books, tarot cards, ans herbs. And of course COFFEE!!

The shop itself is pretty and the prices are reasonable. The only thing I didn't really enjoy was how unclean certain parts seemed

You only find it if you're meant to find it. The herb selection and pricing is competitive and reliable. The owner Mitchell Hagood pours his heart and soul into the shoppe. Birmingham local approved/recommended A+ read more

I had heard great things about this place and I finally decided to check it out... It's pretty cool. never would've thought I'd find a Wiccan shop in Birmingham! The cashier was sweet and really helpful. I was little disappointed about the selection of Tarot cards. The atmosphere is okay and the incenses are really calming. I absolutely LOVE that they make you turn your cell to vibrate. Overall, the selections of books and cards are "meh" right now, but this store has great potential! read more

Books Beans and Candles' lattes are phenomenal, and their tea selection and preparation is far better than most other coffee shops I've been to. My old roommate absolutely loves their cocoa. While I must agree with the previous reviewer about the friendliness of the regulars, and most of what was said is true, in general I find that to be an enjoyable part of the experience. I never know what random conversation I will overhear while I am there. I've also had private conversations here; as long as we kept it quiet enough that others couldn't help but overhear, it remained a private conversation. But this is the kind of place where everyone knows and is interested in everyone else. Be prepared to make a temporary friend or two, especially if you there in a group that gives off a friendly vibe. I'm a shy, very private person, and I love coming here. read more

Okay, I've been to this place for its products before its tea and coffee, but I finally had some of their tea, and it's amazing. Their jasmine is wonderful, and the lemon ginger tea made my headache go away. I'm hoping to try the London Fog drink next time I go. Anyway, I love the atmosphere because it feels really cabin-like and mystical. Sitting at the cute table while a giant stone dragon stares me down as I drink my tea is the best way to go. It's absolutely wonderful. read more

Love this little shop nestled into the Red Mountain. If you are into anything magical, this is definitely the place to get it. The drinks are awesome! I definitely recommend the mad hatter! I have never left here disappointed. read more

I used to frequent this magical coffee shoppe but busy schedules have kept me from here for some time. Recently though, I was able to pay another visit to what was once one of my favorite spots in town and it is just as comfortable as I remember. I love the coffees they offer. The owner puts so much care and energy into this place and the community it really shows. The coffee and teas are delicious. Their mixed coffee drinks are very sweet but tasty. The shop is fun to walk around and explore. The atmosphere is always friendly and there is usually a 'regular' there who will befriend anyone. The owner and other baristas will sit and chat with you or even join in games and heated discussions with guests. This place hosts a number of community events and is a meeting place for many organizations. If you want a soothing friendly place to relax and read or play a game or just drink your coffee, this is it. Drinks are not instant so don't come expecting quick service, but always expect friendly personal service. read more

See all

This is a wonderful shop. The staff and customers both are friendly and willing to chat with you about anything, give suggestions, etc. Their drinks are to die for, and there's a great selection of stones, candles, books, herbs, incense, and oils. It's also good to just go and hang out. read more