Coffee exchange is hands down my favorite coffee shop in Rhode Island, potentially ever. I'm always a sucker for a good mocha, and I'm sensitive to caffeine so decaf espresso is usually a must for me! A lot of other decaf espresso drinks that I've tried end up compromising on the flavor, but not coffee exchange. It is delicious, consistent, fast, and so aromatic every time. The staff are always friendly, and there are two levels to the coffee shop filled with small tables that lend itself to the perfect place to meet up with a friend, read a book, or study. It is truly a gem of Providence, and I always miss it whenever I'm out of town! read more

This is hands down the best coffee you can get. As a New England girly, I want an iced coffee all seasons of the year but making a decision on what to get here kills me every time I visit. Their hot coffees and espressos are gorgeous. They have you order and pick up on the porch (as of last time I went) and I actually love this simply because it was sooooo cramped before, I could never see the full menu and was overwhelmed by being squished with everyone inside. On the porch I can fully see what they offer and decide and then chill on one of the seats. Now that I'm no longer local, parking is the only thing that keeps me from coming every week. read more

I am visiting Providence this week, and when I explored Wickenden Street, I made it a point to go to Coffee Exchange because of the rave reviews. Wow, the reviews were so right! This place has so much warmth and character. I got so much enjoyment from having a coffee and a brownie and just observing my surroundings. Thank you Yelp and reviewers for making the trip to Wickenden Street and to Providence so special. read more

Pre-pandemic I went into Coffee Exchange but left because the wait was too long. That was then and this is now....Yesterday I tried again and this time I was very impressed with the quality of my dark roast Ethiopian coffee, the efficiency of the staff and the friendliness of the people who work here. Also I was very grateful that they have an outdoor deck where the sun makes it quite pleasant to sit on a winter day! Admittedly I only had one coffee but the place' chill vibe and seeing how many others were enjoying what the ordered sold me on the place. I will be back when I am again in the neighborhood! read more

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I went to this location as a part of the RI Food Fights. There was easy parking, my gps took me to the road behind the building... not sure what was up with that. As I walked up there were groups of people sipping their coffee, having a good morning. There is a lot of outdoor seating and they have a beautiful deck in which it's there you order your coffee. The menu is large depending on the types of beans you want, with some other options. I ended up going for a French vanilla ice with milk. The coffee was good... BUT what would have made it better was more options of flavored coffee. There was a good coffee taste but needed something to shake it up a notch. While waiting in line, a lot of people were ordering whole bean coffee to bring home. I may go back for a bag to try. read more

Coffee Exchange - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Beloved local coffee house! I always stop by when back in town! Probably my favorite drip coffee in the country!

Best coffee shop in Providence - old style, good coffee & beans, nice outdoor deck, nice owner. A few downsides: 1) (this is just a pet peeve of mine and not the reason for the one-star downgrade from perfect) none of the staff seems to know what an ounce is when ordering beans. One time I was told - "we don't sell ounces, just pounds". Another time, when I explained that 12 ounces was 3/4 of a pound, the person said "OK, so 0.3 pounds?". 2) there is one employee in particular who stands and waits looking at the screen to see if you leave a tip after ordering. 3) this is the reason for my one-star downgrade: they allow smoking at the tables on the sidewalk. And when anyone lights up, the smoke immediately goes to the deck, making it very unpleasant there. I don't see why they can't just say no smoking. It's basic decency and a public health issue as well. (Oh, and I agree with a previous poster that since so many people get their drinks and stay to enjoy them - that it would be nice if they got a dishwasher and offered drinks in something other than disposable cups.) read more

Amazing little coffee roaster. Best coffee I had in Providence. Nice vibe inside and very friendly staff.

I had been wanting to try this place for a while but because of their hours had not been able too. When I finally went they have you order outside at a window then wait on the deck. I ordered the iced vanilla latte and it was amazing. Will definitely be back here read more

Coffee Exchange - Iced vanilla latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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i visited yesterday as part of the RI Food Fights coffee challenge. i got two cold brews and an iced chai. the coffee is always good. though, I remember enjoying my last visit slightly better. The aroma was enticing (as it should be if you like coffee). it is always busy, but service was relatively quick. there were plenty of flavor options, including 3 sugar free. there were plenty of tables and an inviting outdoor porch. overall, it is an excellent coffee shop. read more

Coffee Exchange - Two cold brews - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

I heard a lot about Wickenden Street and was excited to stop here during my quick trip in Providence. This coffee shop is very cute and when I visited in July, they were not allowing dine-in and instead, you just order through the window on their patio. I went with an iced latte with almond milk - it was very delicious! I wish I could have visited again to try more menu items- next time! read more

Great coffee. I've only been here twice but will keep coming back because of the high quality coffee beans, desserts and service.

I loved this place for years. And by 'loved', I mean 'had it in my GPS as church'. And by 'years', I mean decades. But. 2+ years into the pandemic, and you still cannot go inside. The staff is still being weirdly cautious-asking a customer not to approach the plexiglass covered outdoor window until the exact moment that the masked attendant could take her order. Still, I keep trying. Today, I was excited to see that gingerbread was back on the menu. Ordered one. It was half-frozen. Kind of like how I feel about Coffee Ex now. Going to look for a new church. read more

This place is probably one of the best places for coffee in Providence...honestly RI overall. I give it 5 stars for their drinks. However, here's why it's getting three stars. Their Covid set up was great, but now they no longer have any indoor seating/experience at all. It's strictly outside. I've come on rainy days and snowy days, and the coffee is worth the wait outside. I just really miss the vibe of this business. It was always packed and bustling inside. It was chaotic, but in a good way. Sitting down inside these types of coffee shops is an experience, which the Coffee Exchange now lacks. They have you order at a window, through plexi glass. You definitely have to speak up, or they might mishear you. I asked for oat milk & got whole milk, which they remade for me with no issues. The customer service here is great. If you are fine with just grabbing your coffee and going, then I recommend. However, there is not much seating & it can be difficult to find parking which is why I would rather come here to stay for a bit and enjoy my coffee. read more

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Coffee Exchange is a cute coffee shop located in Providence that I would highly recommend going to for a visit if you like coffee. The way I like to judge coffee shops is by how good their plain coffee is. Iced coffee is quite simple to make, but it is quite difficult to make iced coffee tastes great. So if a coffee shop makes a killer iced coffee, you know the rest of their coffee is amazing! The vibe of the coffee shop is very relaxing and cute which is always a plus. There is seating inside and outside and it is the perfect place to catch up with a friend. I have only visited this place once so I have only tried their iced coffee, but I will definitely return next time I visit Providence. read more

Coffee is good, staff is very nice, have plenty of places to sit, and the upstairs tends to be very quiet even when busy. I would go all the time if my wallet could handle it. Bathroom is through the archway behind the cash. read more

Kind of dysfunctional, hipster coffee joint with a strange ordering system. Our order was skipped and they're no names or numbers on actual coffee drinks. So if they call your name and it is too loud and crowded to hear, they put it back behind the counter?? You only get one shot at hearing your name called and if you miss it, you're screwed! Difficult street parking location and people rude and reach in front of you while you're getting milk/ cream and sugar for coffee. You can't "swing a dead cat" without hitting/bumping into a nonchalant Brown/RISD student with bad body odor! So-so overall... read more

This a great place for coffee. They practically have just about anything. They do have muffins and other breakfast or break time treats. This not your neighborhood Dunkin. Highly professional baristas. No table service that I saw. The seating has room for a laptop if you want to work or seat and talk. Coffee is very good read more

Great coffee, great quality, great prices, great seating, great staff! Lovely find! Looking forward to future visits.

Straight up Wonka Coffee factory right here! Albeit they jam more hipster vibe, tables, chairs, beans and treats per square inch than thought to be humanly possible. It's a bit of a squeeze amidst the bustling crowds, but ohhh so worth it! There is a large parking lot in the back (just an FYI for those non-walking types). Getting down to brass tacks (not tax), this rendezvous point is chock full of supreme options. Additionally, the people, err scientists, nay mixologists...or dare I say brewologists, are a tad condescending to us lay coffee drinkers, but it's worth the down the nose look for what they're dripping. Next level drip right hea! Step to the right of the ordering counter and you will find a plethora of coffee from all over the world! The Ethiopian with a hint of subtle blueberry notes is my personal fav! Stop in here, grab that spro, get a bag and go go goooo! Cheers! read more

Coffee Exchange - Just a few of my faaavorite things! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

God-tier brewed coffee. If you're a coffee fanatic or just enjoy a really good cuppa joe- this is the place for you. I got their coffee of the day; Sumatra (Dark roast) and it was heavenly. I will have go go back and pick up a bag so I can make some at home. A cup of coffee will run you $2-3, or ~$5 if you want a latte. Worth every penny!! If you're looking to take some beans home- it will be around $20/lbs (depending on blend & availability). Unfortunately, you cannot go inside at the moment due to Covid. You place your order at a window and pick it up. There is a patio outside that will open when the weather is warm enough. It was a tad too chilly so my friend and I enjoyed walking around the area. There's an art supply store and Consignment/thrift shop across the street that were very cool. Additionally, theres a parking lot in the back! No need to pay for street parking :) read more

Can I give a 0 star? Inside is permanently closed, 8$ ice coffees largely consist of only ~ice~, no parking and long waits. They've seen better days and unfortunate they're all behind us. Next! read more

Coffee Exchange - Cold - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

I'm torn between 3 + 4 stars but I'll round up since I can't decide. This is a bustling coffee shop that has their own coffee that they grind along with teas and espresso drinks and select baked goods. I'm torn because it's always so busy in there and I'm just not that crazy about the coffee. It's not that it's bad, it's just not my favorite and factor in the noise and crowds I just usually pass to go to a different type of coffee shop. However if you love people watching and being around others highly recommend this coffee shop. Also staff is super knowledgeable about their coffee, so definitely ask for let recommendations if you're picking up a pound. read more

After figuring out how to get in, i felt super accomplished right for the bat. Good way to start a study session. Really great spot to work on your laptop for a while, but the tables are pretty small and it gets crowded. I wouldn't say this is a good spot to 'spread out' Come here to chat with friends, work on your laptop, write, or just relax and smell the amazing smells! Cloud 9 tea is so good and has BASIL in it! Never tried anything like it. Hot chocolate is great. Chai hot cider is also so so good. This place is a winner. read more

Coffee Exchange - Inside seating area at 5pm on a Thursday. Pretty full, feels very alive - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Parking is a bit difficult here but once you get a spot it's worth it! I stopped in for the first time because of RI Food Fights Coffee Celebration and to break up the bridge traffic. I love a good cold brew style coffee, and the Coffee Exchange has one of the best cold brews in my opinion! It is a build you own style with milk, cream, sugar, etc on the bar, which I don't typically prefer, but this one is totally worth it! read more

Caffeine in this coffee is strong!!! BEWARE. I'm always wired for about 4-5 hours after drinking a large cup. I get a large hazelnut caramel with oat-milk & 2 sugars. Not too sweet- not too strong. Just right. They know how to make a killer coffee here & it's imported from different countries. Shop has a vintage type of vibe and is one of the cutest little nook & cranny coffee shops I've ever seen. It's peaceful. Quiet- I always see college kids doing work here on their laptops. They have little tables & chairs outside if you want to sit in the sun- & if you're on the go you don't even have to come inside. You can just walk up on the deck/patio & they take your order right there! I will be back time & time again for coffee exchange. 5/5 stars! read more

I came here for the first time this July because of the RI Food Fights "ICED COFFEE Summer Celebration". My wife and I visited all 54 locations in the competition, and this was a great location that we'll definitely be back to. The coffee was fantastic, and the building was cool, too! If you get a flavor shot/syrup, it is very sweet, so personally, I wouldn't add extra sugar with it. read more

I wanted to try something new since I always go to Dunkin' or Starbucks. So this place is good. I tried their ice coffee then I went for the mocha blanco. It was amazing. read more

3.5...I like this coffee shop but when you walk in during peak hours, it is quite chaotic. No clear place to get in line or pick up coffee. And if you want to sit down and relax, privacy is impossible because people will be on top of you either waiting for a seat, waiting in line, or waiting for a drink order that takes a long time to make. It's not a bad thing that a drink order takes time because the coffee drinks are quality, but still. No hipster coffee joint is worth the anxiety that comes along with it (sorry!) These people are serious about their caffeine. Luckily there is outdoor seating for a breath of fresh air. Your best bet is to NOT go during peak hours, get your drink to go, or sit outside. I love their coffee but their mocha left me feeling nauseous. Doesn't taste overly sweet but the sugar is definitely there! Same with a latte if you get flavor. However, their chocolate chip cookies are delicious and you should totally try one. read more

Coffee Exchange - Yummies - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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This is the best coffee I have ever had. It was so good!! I never had coffee that made me want to go back immediately and think it was well worth the price. It was delicious. I got a vanilla latte with 2% milk and it was perfectly warm/hot and the flavor was just right. I can't wait to go back! read more

I wasn't always a fan of Coffee Exchange, but they've won me over, and here's why: 1. Even though they stock over 2 dozen different kinds of coffee, the beans are always FRESH! I'm not a huge coffee connoisseur, but freshness makes all the difference. 2. Free cup of coffee (hot or iced!) with the purchase of a pound of beans! 3. They stay open late relative to other coffee shops in the area. I love coming here in the evenings to get work done. 4. I've only had really nice, pleasant interactions with the employees! 5. There's an easy-to-use rewards program--just register your credit card and earn points for every dollar you spend! It seems like most of the negative reviews are complaining about the cramped space and parking. The tables are pretty small and close together, but that's not a dealbreaker for me. Plus, they shut off the wifi on weekends to discourage people from camping out. And there's extra parking in the back if you keep driving down Brook St! One caveat is that I tend not to get food here; I think it's all sourced from other places, so sometimes it looks like it's been sitting out for a while. Coffee Exchange specializes in coffee, and that's fine with me! read more

Coffee Exchange - Free hot coffee (any size) when you buy 1 lb. of coffee of the day! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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Coffee Exchange is my favorite coffee shop in Providence (maybe the world) and it's the one I compare all other coffee shops to. Simply perfect with the best mocha you'll ever have. You can taste the richness of the melted down chocolate that goes into it which perfectly combines with the flavors of freshly ground/roasted espresso. It's strong coffee too so you may not even need a large! The interior is great with two floors of coziness, plenty of tables, and great aux at the right volume. It's always nice to browse the huge selection of fair-trade beans while waiting for a drink. They also have all sorts of coffee making hardware for sale too, if you want to try to reach their level. Service is always kind and feels like it has a relatively personal touch, despite it being an absolute factory in there. I once asked for a hot mocha and got an iced, pointed it out, and walked out with both (please don't abuse this as a hack - they were so nice and courteous about it). When I think about a perfect weekend morning, it pretty much always involves a trip to Coffee Exchange. I recommend the one-two combo with Amy's across the street. read more

Ah, the venerable Coffee Exchange. 4 stars for the coffee, as always (hello - there's decaf cold brew here); 2 stars for the stale pastry I was sold, although my money was readily refunded. I'm really here for the coffee so I'm not averaging the ratings. The repurposed house was chock-full of people today!! Most seemed to be students settled in for the day, with laptops and head phones. They surprised us by freeing up some space for us to sit! Look forward to being able to relax outside on the patio when the weather is better. My basic cup of joe was delicious, and there are many specialty drinks and espresso choices. I love drinking a cup and buying whole beans in the same visit. Now, to find a fresher snack... read more

The Coffee Exchange is a wonderful coffee standby in Providence. AKA the OG of the PVD coffee scene. They've been roasting their own beans and brewing quality coffee for over 20 years now and they know what they're doing. The baristas know what they're doing and are happy to answer any questions you have about the menu. Only con here is that they get busy and with limited seating it can get cramped on the weekend. The speciality drink to order here is the Undertow (unsweetened)--it's a rich, bold shot of espresso poured over a glass of cold milk. (Think cortado proportions in terms of espresso to milk distribution.) You might get so lost in thought at how great it is that you get swept out to sea! :P read more

Coffee Exchange - The Undertow - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Not sure why these guys have such high reviews. Where their line forms isn't very obvious, and it leads to confusion with all the customers. Then when we were finally ready, we keep getting skipped by other customers just walking in despite looking at the service staff right in the eye. I think I'd rather just eat at Amy's across the street. I might try them next time. read more

Coffee Exchange - Wtf is this? Lol. That said, it tastes great. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

The coffee exchange is a Providence staple. I've been going here since the early 90's. My husband and I have moved to the south. We have our coffee shipped to us every month! Still some of the best coffee we've ever had! read more

Last time we were here on my business meeting. I ordered a Mocha Expresso coffee with lots of whip cream and it was delicious. My second time visiting here in 2 years. Love the coffee and pastries here. Great staff and happy people. I will continue to come back on my business meetings. read more

Super high quality beans and coffee drinks, and a great outdoor seating area. Excellent pastries. Wickenden Street vibes for days.

I come here for just one thing and one thing only Ice coffee mocha Blanca is the best ice coffee I ever had I would be a hole gallon if I could a must try hipster cool spot to be seen and meet new peps Lol read more

When we visited the inside still was not open to costumers which was a bit of a disappointment for my frozen bones but the delicious coffee made up for it!!! Definitely worth the stop! read more