Coffee chains are the backbone of America.
From drive-thru windows to walkable locations along city blocks, there are more than46,000coffee shops in the United States.
Believe it or not, Starbucks makes up roughly onethirdof those.
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It is the leading coffee chain in the world, after all.
That’s a heck of a lot of coffee being sold each day.
Dunkin', Dutch Bros., and Tim Hortons are the nexttopcoffee leaders.
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But it’s not all about volumemany regional gems have cult followings, too.
Here’s a brief history lesson on how coffee houses have been embedded in our culture.
More chains followed, and by the 1980s, coffeehouse culture exploded.
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Momentum hasn’t let up since.
Not all are made equal, however.
Here are the best coffee chains in America right now.
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The brand recognition is next-level: In 2018,ForbesnamedStarbucks the fifth most admired company in the world.
Many of its drinks have even become a cultural phenomenon.
Just look at the uber-popular Pumpkin Spice Latte, which celebrated its 20th birthday this year.
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Now, there are more than 100 locations across the United States and Asia.
Blue Bottle’s signature pour-over coffee made from freshly roasted artisanal beans remains a mainstay.
It quickly became a favorite among Silicon Valley tech nerds and hipsters alike.
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It has a growing e-commerce platform and subscription service.
Dutch Bros. Coffee is known for its drive-thru convenience, flavorful drink combinations, and excellent customer service.
And with 800locationsacross 17 states, it’s opening stores at a truly breath-taking pace.
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And of course, there’s coffee.
Don’t be afraid to have some fun with your order!
The classic cold brew can be mixed with syrups to create a personalized flavor blend.
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It’s blended up for a perfectly cold caffeine jolt.
Tim Hortons
The iconic Canadian coffee chain is steadily taking a piece of the American coffee market.
Or, try the Canadian classicthe “double-double"the most popular coffee order at the chain.
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Since 1964, Tim Hortons has focused on the basics.
But that’s not to say the menu is basic.
As it continues its planned expansion, you just might find a shop near you soon.
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But the two coffee chains are definitely not carbon copies of one another.
Peet’s tends to favor darker roasts and has a special focus on bulk coffee sales.
Its top-selling Major Dickason’s dark roast can be found at grocery stores throughout the country.
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Stop by one of its 329locationsin 20 states to sample the menu.
Philz Coffee
Here’s one for the pour-over lovers.
Baristas aim to match each coffee-drinker with a blend that suits their flavor preferences.
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That personalized experience goes a long way and sets it apart from competitors.
You won’t see any carafes, hot coffee holders, or espresso machines, for that matter.
At Philz, all the coffee is pour-over and made to order.
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Philz also breaks the industry norm of long menus jam-packed with lattes and blended drinks.
Order it “Philz Way” and get a bit of brown sugar and medium cream.
What’s not to love?
The Human Bean
(There are some locations abroad, across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, too.)
Caribou is best known for its handcrafted coffee drinks, blended coffee beverages, and smoothies.
One reviewersaysthe Hot Chocolate Press with Caramel is “like a cake in a cup.”
Port City Java
And, thanks to its commitment to the environment, you might feel good grabbing your coffee here.
Biggby Coffee
Fan of the unusual?
Just look at itslonglist of concoctions called Creme Freeze Smoothies.
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These non-caffeinated smoothies are available in virtually every flavor imaginable, like Chocolate Chip Cookie and Confetti Cupcake.
Dunn Bros Coffee
One thing that sets Dunn Brothers apart from competitors is a commitment to freshness.
Its coffee is roasted in-house, usually on a daily basis.
That’s a freshness difficult to find at most coffee chains.
All these traits make Dunn Bros a great pick for the pared-back coffee drinker.
The coffee house also makes fresh food, from hand-sliced meats and cheese to fresh baked pastries.
So, what makes this franchise one of the top 25fastest-growing chains in America?
Unlike with Dutch Bros., however, Black Rock customers can actually sit inside at some locations.
Is Coffee Good for You?
There’s no shortage of options.
The Human Bean
If you haven’t noticed yet, the Pacific Northwest loves its coffee.
The Human Bean is another coffee chain originating from the area.
The frappes and milkshakes are made with real ice cream, and the baked goods are prepared fresh daily.
Must try items include the Iced Caramello Leche, the Mochaccino with dark chocolate, or the Espresso Freeze.
Definitely don’t sleep on the breakfast sandwiches served on toasted English muffins with fluffy eggs.
