Small World Coffee

•$

From the outside this does not look like a icecream shop so it's easy to be missed. This is your…read moretypical go to spot for classic icecream flavors. I would recommend.

It really worked in our favor that the two biggest ice cream shop competitors to Halo Pub had been…read moreclosed, because when we had a hankering for creamy ice cream, Halo Pub did not disappoint at all! Besides the vibes and ambiance being very relaxing and cool (part ice cream shop, part coffee shop), there were no shortage of flavors and toppings to choose from! I was also super lucky that the staff member who scooped my cone gave me a hearty amount! Certainly do recommend Halo Pub if you're in the area!

Bowl of Cookies and Cream

2 scoop cup ($6.95) - Tahiti vanilla bean + raspberry peach. Neither was my fav. Vanilla one is very sweet.

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The Bent Spoon

4.5(1.2k reviews)

We were in the area for a hockey showcase and this ice cream shop came highly recommended. Lots of…read morevery unique flavors which made it hard to decode for an indecisive person like me. They do let you sample flavors. The ice cream was delicious, my only regret was not tasting more flavors! You can get 2 flavors in your order. So many too choose from, it's a hard call. When we arrived the line was down the block and my kid didn't want to wait but the line moved rather quickly (they have a good process in place) keeping things moving! Cute cozy little ice cream shop serving high quality ice cream. If you are an ice cream lover and like original out of the box creations don't sleep on this spot!

Black sesame lover - this is for you. I had low expectation, but the bent spoon delivered! It's…read morevery sesame-y, but it does not taste burnt. I did try a few samples, but most of them aren't exactly for me. I also wanted a flavor that would complement well with the black sesame. That flavor ended up being earl grey. It was perfect. They balance each other well. My coworker recommended this place. He did warn me that the line is long, but it moves fast! He was right. I do have to say I LOVE their paper cone shape for the ice cream. It's smart. It holds the ice cream. It prevents us from accidentally pushing the top scoop off the cone.

Banana Whip a la mode ($10.50) - with POG sorbet (passionfruit + blood orange + guava)

Outside of shop

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Banana Whip ($8)

Sakrid Coffee Roasters

4.4(101 reviews)

I loved this coffee place at the corner. S lot of students, as at any coffee place in Princeton and…read morenot too much seats. The cortado is great and I was offered a glass of sparkling water too, which was really nice.

I though the coffee here was just average. I bit too burnt for my tastes. I found that the small…read moreworld coffee around the corner (or served at jammin crepes nearby) was a smoother taste. Very crowded interior, was hard to navigate.

Cappuccino and home orange blossom latte

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Junbi

4.3(147 reviews)

0.0 mi

This was matcha latte #2 of the day (iced mango matcha with boba). I am going to try to recreate…read morethis in my kitchen since I don't live near this place and it was so good. The coconut milk flavor didn't overpower the matcha flavor like in my last DIY attempt. I took my order to go but I noticed that the café was very quiet and clean and had a lot of seating space for working and gathering.

A little shop specializing in flavored matcha drinks (strawberry is good) and they do have a little…read moreregular bubble tea (but I would pass on that- it's not as good as other shops). They have cute tea glasses but it's ... a blind box. For $35+. Nope, pass on that. Overpriced, yes. But it is Princeton area.

Indoors

Ceremonial matcha cold brew

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Belle Journee

3.7(14 reviews)

It's self service. Kinda similar to Paris Baguette, but I think their selection was more…read moreinteresting. We got 4 pastries to go. All were pretty tasty but none tasted like authentic French pastries. That said the flavors were fun for our American palates. My son loved his Oreo croissant and my biscoff one was good since I was in a mood for sweet.

This place is so cute, the customer service was so nice, but the baked goods we bought were…read moreterrible. We came here on our anniversary to get some cake to celebrate after eating across the street at the Graudate and were loving the vibe of Belle Journee with all the twinkle lights, big signs and pastries lining the walls. It looks very similar to the set up of Au bon pain. I'm actually shocked to read it is a Korean shop because they mostly were selling French baked goods. We got this gorgeous chocolate double tiered tiny cake. It almost reminded me of a mini wedding cake. Well, we went in to take a bite and it was just so dry. We went on to the bottom layer and it was a very thick chocolate cake that was so hard it was barely edible. I don't know if this is a particular style of cake and I just ordered something I did not like, but I am not a fan. I may give this place another shot.

Spinach gruyere quiche

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Pastries

Rojo's Roastery

4.2(176 reviews)

I came to do work for a couple hours and order a coffee. The store is super small only 3 tables…read more No bathroom. Need to go outside for that so kinda sad about that. Service was standard, they did help me pick out their seasonal drink. The cold brew was ok. It had a splash of milk and fruit flavor. It didn't leave a lasting impression on me. I really wish there was a bathroom and more tables! It was a cute quaint store.

Maybe my favorite coffee shop in the entire world. I'm genuinely in love! If you're looking for the…read morebest quality coffee, this is your spot, seriously. My go to is a honey latte, but any and all of their drinks are so good. If I had to pick a Princeton favorite from any category, this would be my #1. I only wish they had far more seating options, but regardless, this place is amazing and has a great ambiance. Their baristas are all super cool, friendly, and nice. What a gem.

Iced Americano and blueberry scone.

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MTea

4.3(53 reviews)

0.0 mi

Ordered a mango tea with boba and cheese foam and somehow it came out to over $11. I went during…read morelunch time so the store was busy and it took 15 minutes for my drink to come out. Their prices felt extremely expensive even given the Princeton area. They do have some really cute desserts and the sushi looked alright/seems to be more reasonably priced. There are better shops in the area for boba that are more affordable.

Really cute inside, a huge variety of desserts and food! The strawberry tea tasted very fresh.read more

Outdoor seating in the back

Spicy Tuna Roll Sweet Potato Roll Brown Sugar Bobo Milk Tea

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Delicious vegan sushi!

Alfalfa

4.7(29 reviews)

Alfalfa is always a good idea and I am never not in the mood for a delicious, giant salad or…read moreinsanely stuffed wrap. I think I have been to every (East coast) location and I love them all. But I do sometimes forget that they are also a cafe and the perfect spot, if you can find a table, to take out your laptop and get some work! I stopped in while in Princeton for work and not only needed wifi but needed sustenance. I got the Far East Salad, one of my recent faves, and an iced matcha latte and took a seat on their little wall of stairs. -Wifi was strong -Matcha latte was refreshing and delicious -Far East salad was soooo good! I love the crunch broccoli, the flavorful tofu, the dressing. If you haven't tried it, I highly recommend. The team is friendly and fast and brings the food right over to you. I have always been a huge Alfalfa fan so I can safely say you will love them.

Food here was very good, clean and allergy friendly! Definitely worth a visit if you're seeking a…read morehealthier option and/or have some food allergies.

Drink Bar freshly made daily

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Entrance

House of Ihsan

4.6(86 reviews)

Tucked away in downtown Princeton, this charming boutique café is a true gem for anyone who…read moreappreciates quality and care in every detail. The coffee is exceptionally well made smooth, rich, and clearly crafted by people who know what they're doing. Even before ordering, the pastry display is hard to ignore everything looked absolutely delicious and beautifully made. Whether you're stopping in for a quick caffeine fix or planning to linger with a warm drink and a pastry, this spot delivers both great flavor and a cozy downtown atmosphere.

I've been following this caffeine on Instagram for a while now. I'm so glad I finally had the…read moreopportunity to go in person and try out their specialty coffees! It was honestly a chilly day on the day we went so these hot lattes really hit the spot. The staff was so nice and accommodating to all of our questions and they have beautiful stickers and other merchandise from local artist that you can purchase at the front. Unfortunately, I didn't get to try any of their pastries, which I see them posting on Instagram all the time. But I will definitely be back to try more drink drinks and all the different pastries that they have to offer! If you're looking for a quiet cozy café, this is 100% a place you need to stop by!!

Http://www.njnewjersey.com/top-stories/196-princeton-the-salad-and-smoothie-market-the-candy-shoppe-is-a-must-see.html

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illy Coffee At Earth's End

4.4(25 reviews)

Coffee chains is not my thing but two that stands outs to be the best in my opinion is illy and…read moreBlue Bottle. Hands down my faves. After having lunch in the Princeton area, illy popped up on my Yelp app. The only other times I've had illy was in San Francisco and at an airport in Rome, Italy. And both times it was memorable. We ordered the Espresso Freddo Shakerato, Caffè Latte, and Cappuccino Viennese. Each one crafted with love and attention. You know it's good coffee when it doesn't leave a nasty coffee and sugary taste in your mouth. I savored each sip. Service here is a standout, super friendly with big smiles. Highly recommend.

I got to try iced single shot aloha mocha latte thru the yelp elite event and it tasted very nice…read more The Cafe also had a cigar bar and more tables outdoor. But the sittings inside was limited and there weren't much variety of pastry choices. The barista was very friendly and prepared my coffee promptly.

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Mocha Latte (sweetest baristas here)

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51 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Alice A.

12 years ago

This place seems to have a lot of hype as a "must go" to anyone visiting Princeton so when I was in town for a weekend conference at the University, I decided to check it out, especially because I'm originally from California which has no shortage of good coffee. What I discovered is that whether or not you'd like this place depends totally on your demographic. If you're a wealthy Princeton resident or businessman or if you're his yuppie housewife, this is the place for you! If you're an out of towner or don't come here often enough to be recognized by the employees, expect to receive sub-par service. The high prices, mediocre coffee, and lack of sufficient seating and outlets aren't even the worst thing about this establishment. The staff is just as condescending as the rude regular customers it serves. Baristas will make a regular's drink before yours if they see the regular waiting in line behind you. They call their regulars by name while rushing you out of their way, making sure to interact with you as little as possible to keep the line moving. I read a post here talking about how ignorant it is to say "it's such a small world!" and I have to agree and elaborate on that. This place is surely the place to be if you're part of the "small world" community that makes up this over-privileged, elitist town full of wealthy and naive inbreds who don't ever seem to leave their perfect little bubble. If you're not, you're treated like an outsider and herded down the line like cattle by flustered, moody baristas who just seem in over their heads. And don't even bother coming in here in the evening! The staff is extra rude and neglectful because they're trying to hurry to clean up so they can get out of there the minute the cafe closes. Behind the counter looks mostly shut down even if there is 1-2 hours left before closing. This cafe poses as a "small business" that is "community oriented". It seems like their regulars must be keeping them in good business because if their business was suffering, I doubt they would be so rude to ANY of their paying customers. I say let the snobby regulars keep their "small world community" and take your business elsewhere. read more

Becca L.

12 years ago

I literally joined this website just to tell people and fellow Princetonians about the prejudicial experience I had with one of your so-called baristas or should I say bigot. I love Small World....in-fact I worship this place...however I took my brother here and he happened to order a soy latte (he's allergic to dairy)...the barista made it incorrectly and when my brother returned it and explained the barista gave a holier-than-thou look and then muttered under his breath "faggot". My brother is a 16-year old-redhead who would never hurt a fly, and we were taught never to act out in public so we suppressed out utter disgust and didn't cause a scene. My brother blushed and turned bright red, then scurried out of the store and I followed after worried. What hurt the most is that my brother is gay. Who ever this Izzy is I wish I could smash his idiotic bigoted face in...I will never come back to this store ever again. Was it really hard just to say sorry...what makes me even more upset is I tipped before I realized he got my brother's order incorrect...how hard is to make a soy latte? read more

Amod G.

Elite 23

181

277

3 years ago

I must admit, I'm disappointed in myself for being tardy with these reviews, but I suppose it's better late than never. I simply adore "Small World Coffee" in Princeton. Every time I visit, I find myself drawn to this lively establishment bustling with people. The coffee they serve is a true delight. Whether I opt for a cortado or a regular espresso, each sip is a taste of perfection. And let's not forget about their wide array of other beverage options available. Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend this place to anyone seeking a memorable coffee experience. read more

Steve D.

6 years ago

This was one of the best stops we made on our visit to Princeton! I was in the need for some good coffee, and I'm so happy we found this place. The storefront gave such cute coffeeshop vibes and I knew this place would be amazing. Their menu is very extensive to fit every caffeine preference! I ended up getting a cold brew with almond milk and it was absolutely delicious. Forget Starbucks or any other chain coffee shop. Small World Coffee is infinitely better. read more

Meredith S.

17 years ago

Pros: The coffee is excellent - freshly roasted, freshly brewed, and nice and strong the way I like it. Sizes come in English, not Italian. Cons: Tries too hard to present a community oriented image but it comes off as inauthentic and somewhat pretentious. Smokers congregate outside so you sometimes have to walk through a cloud of smoke to get in the door. Verdict: come for the coffee, not the atmosphere.. read more

Crystel L.

Elite 26

135

921

3 years ago

Small World Coffee is a delightful and snug cafe with an incredibly friendly and helpful staff. When I sought something refreshing and warm, despite my coffee aversion, I was suggested the ginger tonic with honey and lemon--it tasted fantastic, making my stroll around Princeton Downtown even more enjoyable. The prospect of returning is definite; it's an excellent spot for studying and people-watching. read more

Rob M.

16 years ago

What happened??!! Or..."Small World Goes Corporate." Unfortunately, the "improved" Small World Coffee on Witherspoon now looks and feels more like a Starbucks. Che peccato! I used to not think twice about driving a good half-hour every Sunday. Now, I only have to follow a thrown stone. Who's next? Hoagie Haven? God, I hope not. read more

Robert L.

9 years ago

This place is great for families, friends, college students, people working nearby, etc. They have a wide selection of baked goods and coffee. I ordered the white chocolate latte and it was delicious. Also, the store manager was a cool guy. If you're craving European-styled coffee, I recommend this place. read more

Yi S.

12 years ago

This place is a gem . The quality of the coffee is exceptional. It is also a cozy place to sit relax and shoot the breeze. If you are visiting out of town- don't miss it!! Only critic:they open at 7:30 am on Sunday . The coffee place 100 feet away opens at 5 am. I hope they reconsider . read more

Elmer S.

15 years ago

This is a great place for coffee, pastries and sandwiches/salads/soups. I haven't been for breakfast, but that looks good too. The staff is friendly and it's got a good vibe. I love the Big Sug sandwich (fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, roasted red peppers on focaccia). read more

Mari T.

Elite 26

330

2601

2 years ago

This is a charming little coffee café in Princeton, offering a selection of teas and coffees, along with some cute merchandise. The service was excellent. The cashier was friendly and relaxed. It's a great spot for students to study or meet up with friends. read more

Notta R.

13 years ago

Not the best place in the history of coffeeshops, but in a town which is lacking in basic necessities like coffee and restaurants, this will have to do. I used to like Starbucks because I could spot Cornel West - but he's not around anymore. read more

Jacob G.

10 years ago

I love this place, but I am only giving it 4 stars out of 5 because not only is it a cash only spot, which is a little inconvenient, but it is also a bit more pricey than other coffee place. I am not a regular, but i do attend. read more

Danielle R.

9 years ago

Great fresh coffee, consistently good. Parking lot is nearby so that makes getting there easy. Lots of tables although there can be a wait for someone to get up and free up a spot. Come here for the no hassle atmosphere read more

Rachel M.

16 years ago

I love Small World Coffee! I wish they still had their blondies though :( But anyways, YEAH! their coffee is great, it's just strong enough without having any burnt taste to it. Check it out, it's charming! read more

Steven F.

16 years ago

Don't come here expecting free wireless. Because you aren't going to get it. What happened to the american coffee shop where you are supposed to come in and chill? Wifi Nazis! Beware! read more

Beth S.

11 years ago

This is a really great place. Good food, good coffee and great conversation. Coming in and out of the area it is always good to come to a place that makes you feel like home. read more

Anita P.

8 years ago

Barristas are friendly and helpful. Really enjoyed my Machiato the other day. Been coming here for a few years and thought I'd give them a good review. Townie favorite. read more

F B.

11 years ago

One of my favorite coffee shops in Princeton! We spend many Sunday night's at small world, drinking our favorites and doing our crosswords. Its our thing! read more

A E.

6 months ago

Love small world. Great spicy chai and the little ones like the Tiny Tim drink. Two drinks unique to small world. Great alternative for starbucks! read more

Small World Coffee - coffee - Updated September 2026

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Amazing vibe, menu, drinks, space, everything else found here. While I make a stop at the other SWC…read moreon Witherspoon almost every time I am in Princeton, I decided to check out this much quieter, smaller but still just as great cafe a few minutes away. What I loved: -The dirty iced chai latte I got was strong and veryyyyy flavorful. They also had a Tough Chai on the menu but the barista let me know that just means its a little spicier (chai spice, not heat spice). I got the standard and LOVED it. And can also say I think it is plenty tough. Just the right amount of toughness. -The space is bright and open and not too packed with tables. There are a few along the window and a few outside. -The food menu looked amazing! I will have to make a return visit specifically for lunch to try more. -Baristas were kind and helpful. All in all, a great visit and what might have been a top chai latte in my books.

THE IMMORTAL PILE-DRIVER LIVES ON The first time I had a…read morepile driver was at Witherspoon, but Nassau has the SMALL WORLD !Exclusive! famous "Pile Driver" Having spent teen summers I Cape Cod I remember pile drivers as noisy cranes which pounded telephone poles into 20' into the sand making a deafening clanking. PLEASANT SURPRISE THE SWC PILE DRIVER IS SILENTLY DELICIOUS! You can choose from a new visual menu which shows what you will get better than simple words can convey. They a have been my breakfast fave for 2 decades. Nassau offers a preorder for a quick IN &OUT. If you can stay there is OUTDOOR and COVERED seating to enjoy it while it's HOT. Several variations to accommodate your taste Never fear to ask for it your way. SMALL WORLD pleasing Princeton since 1993.

illy Coffee At Earth's End

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Super delicious, innovative light meals with fresh fruits and veggies, amazing coffee and drinks,…read moreand the friendliest staff!!

This place has been on my go to coffee shops for a while now and I finally got the opportunity to…read morego. Their specialty coffees do not disappoint. I had to get to just to try and I will definitely be back to try some seasonal flavors as well as their teas and Matcha. The freddo is creamy sweet and has a nice kick from the espresso. Definitely a very light drink. The iced caramel latte was pretty standard, but what put it over the top was the espresso, whipped cream highly recommend adding the espresso whipped cream to whatever beverage you get! The staff was friendly and helpful with recommendations, as well as bringing my drinks out to me on the patio . There is nowhere to sit on the inside, but there is an outdoor patio that is beautiful especially on a nice breezy fall afternoon. I can't wait to come back and try some other drink drinks that they have as well as their food items!!

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Great prices and neighborly vibe. Fast service and solid pork roll egg and cheese and latte. Will…read morebe back more often

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