In my mind, the the core criteria for a good, cafe-style coffee shop are as follows: (a) friendly staff; (b) welcoming ambiance, and (c) good drinks and snacks. Also, there are lots of other minor considerations that contribute to the overall "feel" of a coffee shop, such as the quality of the artwork on the walls and the vibe from other patrons. To begin, the staff is always pleasant and efficient, even at the busiest times of day. They give costumers the attention they need and are prompt, without seeming rushed. I can't remember a single unpleasant employee in over a decade of patronage. Another really nice thing is that the employees never seem to give preferential treatment to anyone, which is something I've seen at other coffee shops. The space itself is wonderful. There are a variety of micro-environments within the coffee shop - places that have lots or natural light and places the are nice and dark, depending on your mood. The tables and chairs are comfortable and as long as the aisles are kept clear, you can move things around to fit your group. The artwork is ever-changing and usually interesting. Also, I LOVE the fact that there's no WIFI. Clearly, this is a choice to promote a more social environment. Finally, lets look at the drinks and food. The coffee is generally very good. I take my coffee black, so I can really taste the coffee and I have almost always been pleased with whatever I've drank. The espresso is good, although there have been a few staff members who have been exceptionally good and actually pull really great shots of espresso. The rest of the menu is solid too. I really like the Muddy's Shake and the Ginger Lemonade. The only weak spot on the meal are the muffins. The cookies and scones are great options, especially when they're just come out of the oven. Finally, the regulars and patrons at Muddy Waters are usually really great. During busy times, I've been welcomed by strangers to sit at their tables and have done the same in return. There's a good mix of regulars and visitors. And, most people are thoughtful enough to take their cell phone calls outside! Overall, Muddy Waters is exactly what I look for in a coffee shop. I've spent a good deal of my time in coffee shops across the US and abroad in Italy, and I believe that Muddy Waters ranks as my overall favorite. Although other coffee shops may have been stronger on one or two minor aspects, Muddy Waters has been my favorite coffee shop over the past decade. If you're in Burlington, Vermont, you should take a visit. read more

Came here to get some work done while sipping coffee on a cold winter day. The place is very lovely and the maple latte is delicious. Only thing though is that the music is super loud, it is impossible to work or study even with my headphones on. I asked the barista twice to put the music down, and every time she answered "sure", went to put it down and came back without a change. I thought the whole idea is to create an ambience for customers to enjoy their coffee time..I guess it's not that clear for everybody. Too bad, because it is a nice place otherwise. read more

Was expecting a bit more. Bagel and cream cheese was good, filled with locals on arrival but managed to grab a table in the back corner in a little alcove filled with plants. Large menu, very possible there were some gems hidden in it. Im a big coffee person though and my double cappuccino just didn't hit the spot. read more

I ordered a peppermint mocha and got a chai. Come on, man... In other news, it was a nice environment to sit and talk for an hour or two. Cool music, laid-back employees and customer base, and they had chess sets available to borrow. The only thing that would have made it better was the correct drink! read more

I lived in Seattle for 8 years. No coffee shop comes close to the community center with delicious coffee that Muddy Waters is. My fondest memories - a decadent white chocoloate mocha and scone before my daily 2-4 hour workouts and still keeping a hard body. ah. memories. read more

When a coffee barista says to you, "you can have as many shots as you like" I have to almost automatically say in reply, 'Yes, yes I will have to *fan* you on Yelp!' Vermont was burning up when I arrived after a long trip from Canada - stopped at Muddy Waters for an Iced Coffee and was mighty pleased. Just went with the usual 2 shots of espresso and it was really just diviiine: rich, bold flavor and no acidity! So goood! Go get them summer coffees! No need to run away from Muddy Waters even in the heat :D read more

This is love at at first sign. One first time in Vermont and my friend was taking me out to show me the town, we were suppose to go to a place next door and as I passed by this place. i glanced through the window and I was in "LOVE". I knew it was meant to be. By end of the night, we decided to come here to grab a coffee and that just re-ensure my love for this place. I guess words can't really describe my true feelings. You just have to come here to check it out yourself ! read more

This is my favorite coffee shop anywhere. I walk in and that good Muddy's smell and warm atmosphere makes me feel comfy. The coffee and snacks are good and their espresso shake is killer, even though i can't have it anymore. The same old Burlington folk trapped in the town will be sitting there even after you have been away for years and stop by for a visit. I miss Muddy's. No place like it. read more

They have very good organic coffee which you can take to go or sit in. I usually go on the weekend in the morning, almost always have my choice of seating ( I love the booths and window seat). You also can't go wrong with there fresh juices, I had ginger lemonade which was very refreshing. There cookies and cupcakes are also tasty. Muddy Waters is a great place to just go and relax, catch up with friends or read a book. I love the calm atmosphere and the decor. The staff at the counter are nice and friendly. read more

Friendly, background music not too loud, (well, until a minute ago!) - a couple yummy gluten free bakery items (I had the chocolate-dipped coconut macaroon), dark roast delicious. Two sugar bowls: one with the natural-brown, no packages to tear open Decor- exposed beams, decorative tin ceilings, rock and brick wall, adorable lamps, rustic wood floors. Interesting stained glass. Floor-to-ceiling Windows to front street let in beautiful natural light (tho view is just of the street) Stuffed arm chairs as well as bench and table seating. read more

wow, is it a job requirement to be rude & impatient to work here? one guy takes my order at the espresso machine and doesn't say anything so I assume the guy standing on the other side is working the register. I go to the other guy to pay and he acts outraged that i'd ever dare ask him to ring me up. fine. I wait for the guy that's making the two drinks I ordered. fast forward, the group i'm with is paying for their drinks with the guy I asked to ring me up but gave me a hard time, i still haven't paid so they ask to throw my drinks on their tab. 3 different people repeat the order to him. he goes "i'm sorry can you just ring them up? I can't" and storms off. i'm sorry? do you have something else to do? a hot chocolate with whipped cream and a double shot almond milk latter was too much? ok. cool. 3 stars for the hot chocolate, cocked it back to 1 star because the service wasn't worth it. read more

Muddy waters is a favorite spot for college kids, and a Burlington staple. It's pretty small, and usually pretty crowded. It is very laid back and quite the opposite of Starbucks. Their tea is amazing, but coffee is only okay. Similar pricing to Starbucks, but you can support local. Enjoy a cup at the cafe, or take it to go. They have dessert options as well, but I have never tried them. It's a really cute place and draws you in off the street. Lots of plants and comfy seating. read more

Muddy Waters - Looking out onto the street - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Burlington, Vermont

This place doesn't have wifi, which defeated the point of me coming since I needed wifi. But aside from that, it is a cozy cafe with very relaxing music. A good place for a rainy BVT day. I wished I had brought a book with me though. This is a place you can sit and spend the day reading a good book with some coffee, or in my case, chai tea. The chai tea was pretty good. read more

Muddy Waters - Chai tea on a rainy day. The only thing missing is a good book, but I'm content just sitting here and watching the rain. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Burlington, Vermont

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Great eats, drinks and atmosphere, but the service is so hit or miss. Nestled on Main Street, Muddys has a lot going for it. It's convenient to just about everywhere downtown, the prices are spot on for the quality, and they serve everything from quick breakfast items, to mixed drinks and draft beers. Where they stumble however is in their staffing. There are few to no systems in place for handling rushes, so when it gets busy you can be in for a long wait. And while the staff is generally pleasant, there's often no pep to their step and most times they look generally disinterested in their job. Some employees are better than others however,so your mileage may vary. If it wasn't for the cool, laid back decor, the support of local products, collar by location, and better than average pricing, I would not be a regular. read more

The owner is a doll, an absolutely wonderful person. People should not bring their Dunkin coffee in! This is a wonderful, friendly, delicious place! read more

Muddy Waters is the quintessential hip college town coffee shop that I wish we had in downtown Boston! A very cozy interior that make you want to linger. Love the fact that they serve coffee, tea AND beer. If you find a seat you will LOVE this place. read more

What a neat coffee place! If you're in downtown Burlington definitely head here. I really enjoyed my dark roast coffee and the unique atmosphere. There are decorative trees inside and ample seating, as well as tranquil relaxing music. A very creative environment! There are also tons of other options aside from coffee including juices, smoothies, kombucha, and more. I plan to return to try the kombucha soon. read more

Muddy Waters is my go-to coffee shop in Burlington. First of all, I love the atmosphere. It is very Vermont, and feels like I'm drinking my coffee or smoothie in a tree house. There is plenty of seating with tables and booths to chill out and eat/drink. Their coffees are all fair trade and organic and all that fun stuff, but more importantly, good. I usually opt for a shot of espresso and drink it black. My new favorite thing when I'm in town is to get one of their smoothies. I love the banana, ginger, peach smoothie, but also the mango smoothie with ginger added. So good. I haven't had any of their food or had a beer there but it's cool that they serve beer for when you are hanging there in the evening. The service is always pretty friendly and so far i've been lucky to not have to wait in line. Prices can seem a bit high but nothing that is too crazy. It's right around the corner from Church st. and I'm glad that it's kind of off the main drag. Love. read more

This is a great little coffee place. Cool ambiance, sort of a hipster college vibe, with live music performances. There is ample seating room, and its definitely a place where you can milk your coffee for 5 hours. The drinks are a little expensive, but about on par with what you'll get at most coffee shops in Burlington. They also have some great off beat options, including Yerba Mate, and Maple. The staff is really friendly, and knowledgeable (I love to ask questions about what I want to order). Definitely a great place to visit, especially on one of those cold Burlington days! read more

I spend a lot of time here. Anywhere I can get Stone IPA and a slice of pie is heavenly in my book. Good music line-up as well. The fact that there is no WiFi is good, I think, in that it certainly focuses me on a certain kind of work and is moderately effective at keeping the tables open for paying customers (though, there are a lot of lingerers in this place that sometimes force me to go elsewhere for a coffee and a seat.) The only reason they aren't getting 5 stars from me is that I have, on various occasions, had un-realistic wait times. I like the place enough that I keep coming back, but more than once I've been frustrated by the wait. Being 2 away from the till shouldn't mean a 10+ minute wait; I know glaciers move slower than that, but surely there is some similar metaphor. read more

Great coffee shop, wish I could find this place in Orange County California! Super cool earthy place with great coffee and food. Wish I went there twice!!! read more

Muddy Waters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Burlington, Vermont

Very cool interior and good coffee to match. Everybody was friendly and they served up a good cup. One of the few places that seem to be open on Sunday too. read more

We just got back from our VT vacation, and after trying local coffee joints all through the trip we can agree that Muddy Waters is the best. It is the best in Burlington and some of the best coffee I have had (EVER). Definitely check it out. read more

Homey, cozy, feel good coffee shop. This shop has been around since I was a kid. Whenever I need an adult time out, I go here. The coffee is delicious, not pretentious. The food is homemade and flavorful. This is a B-town staple and a must see for the full Church Street experience. read more

earthy, murky feel... the dim interior will make a you a little sleepy but this cafe has so much character and great zucchini bread :) the organic coffee is also good. pay close attention to any silverware if you need to use any. i had to dig through the bin to find a fork that didn't have food caked on it :( read more

The bagels and coffee here and great! My girlfriend and I really enjoyed the interior of this place too. It has a rustic feel and is filled with cool pieces of art & decoration. The coffee selection here is vast. I'd recommend the homemade Chai for a hot beverage! There are also glass jars of cookies and sweets that we did not get the chance to try but they looked BIG! read more

The Bianca is hands-down my favorite coffee beverage on the planet. I pastries are all so fantastic and the atmosphere so very unique that the experience entering to exit is always memorable read more

This is my favorite coffeehouse in Burlington. The atmosphere is awesome and I've never had bad service. They have rocking chai and exceptionally good raspberry hot chocolate. Pastries aren't bad either! It may look a little hipster and intimidating, but its worth getting over your fears. read more

I used to hang out here with my friend. It's so cozy here on a winter day. This is quintessential Burlington. I never tried a milkshake here, my only regret. read more

Good Coffee We just took coffee to go, my girlfriend said a dog was inside. We didn't want to just bring our dog in, so of course I just sat outside and people watched. read more

In high school, just about everyone came to Muddy's. You brought your homework or met your friends, ordered one of the many delicious drinks, grabbed a comfy chair next to the window and stayed till they kicked you out. I miss those days :( read more

This is my first time here since I've moved from New York City. It's cozy, hip and had a rustic feel to it. The cappuccino was good but very small for a double, the vegetarian chili was tasty. My complaint is that the service is extremely slow and they need big trays to put the orders on. I ordered coffee, cappuccino, a biscotti & chili. I didn't like having to make three trips to my table. I love coffee shops but they need to work on a few things. read more

I love Muddy Waters. Their cappuccinos were amazing, along with their teas. The atmosphere is unlike any place I have ever been before. There are little nooks and crannies that hold hidden treasures (ex: notes crammed in the cracks of the wooden railing). The staff was very kind and patient, despite how hectic being a barista can be. Overall, amazing place with an even better atmosphere! read more

If you are in Burlington, you should be getting your beverages here. If you go to Starbucks, you should be ashamed of yourself. Everything here is delicious and perfect in every way. Don't feel like hot coffee? Get the maple steamer. Want something cold? Get a mango lemonade or one other delicious variation. Want something REALLY cold? Muddy Shake!! Best milkshake in the world! And don't even forget about the veggie chili - for $4, you can't beat it. It is perfect for a lighter lunch, especially on a cold day when you're studying. read more

Muddy Waters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Burlington, Vermont

Well, they don't have WiFi. I must not be in on some secret because everyone around me was on the internet on their laptop...does EVERYONE have a hot spot??? Not sure. I got a caramel almond milk latte...it was decent and cost $4.75. Definitely nothing to write home about. However, in terms of aesthetics - this place has it down pat. Absolutely adorable and great for photos if that's what you are into. Wouldn't go back here...my style is a lot more that of New Moon Cafe right down the road. read more

The space is lovely...lots of tables and cozy interior. I came with a group of friends on a Saturday night who were here from different parts of country and the world for an annual gathering. I was excited to get a hard cider and enjoy the space....the issue was the workers there were under age and could not serve us alcohol. On a Saturday?! Who did the scheduling this week. #confused read more

Beautiful interior. Good music. Very chill vibe. When my friend and I walked by, we knew we had to stop in and dedicate some time on our trip there. We even bought shirts we liked it so much! The coffee was good; however, they didn't have any nut free food options available for my friend which was a bummer. The look of the place is so homey. I love the wood and accents around the place. Cute little bookshelves. I did notice that the beams hanging above us did have quite a layer of dust on them which would be one of my only complaints; nevertheless, I had a great time... a little dust is healthy i think ;P There was a wide variety of people (children, college kids, adults) in there which was refreshing compared to some coffee places where you only see replicas of the same kind of person. The atmosphere provided fresh experiences which is a necessary of any coffee shop supplying inspiration to poets, intellectuals, and musicians alike. Will definitely go back! read more

I love independent coffee shops. I spent a long time in the Northwest (Portland, OR, Seattle, WA) and by living on the Eastcoast, I really missed the small coffee bars from the northwest. This is definitely one of those places. Coffee. Chairs. Friends. Good music on radio. Good Baristas who know what their doing, and they have liqueurs to sap you coffee bevrages with potency. Definite good spot in Burlington. Recommend it to anyone. read more

Back when college actually meant something, this was they type of coffee house that you'd imagine everyone from philosophy majors to poetry workshoppers to mech engineering fans getting their caffeine fix on. The seating is fantastic (if limited) and conducive to conversation and reading. The coffee is some of the best in the Northeast at Least (I'm a little more partial to Uncommon Grounds, but these people know their beans--my all-time fave is Bard in Portland, Maine, but apples and apples here). The pastries are really good. They have a great tap with some great local brews (always recommend Wolaver's Oatmeal Stout). The music--well, everyplace in Burlington plays killer music, but I really love it here. I wish that BU had a coffee shop this cool and that Harvard hadn't Abercrombie-and-Fitched its soul about a decade ago. I know Abercrombie and Fitch is long gone. It killed the Tasty, so good riddance. You can't go wrong in this place. I think they have live music some nights, though i'm not sure. Fuckin' great. EDIT: I don't know if anyone here remembers or has been to Jimmy's (Woodlawn Tap) near U of C? Imagine that smaller, as a coffee shop, with no pinball and fewer shady homeless dudes outside. That's what this Muddy's is to me. Reminds me of one of the only things about Hyde Park, Chicago, that I really can say I love. Also, you can't get a brat there, oh. read more

Proper Cappuccino and zucchini bread! Mellow atmosphere and homey vibe. Friendly staff and ample seating! Muddy waters may sing the blues, but you won't have to when you come here. read more