Catalina Coffee

Cozy Vibes, Great Coffee, Limited for Laptop Work Catalina Coffee on Washington Avenue is a charming and cozy spot with a warm, welcoming vibe. The baristas were friendly and knowledgeable, and my drink was enjoyable. It’s a great place to catch up with a friend, enjoy a quiet moment indoors on a rainy day, or grab a high-quality coffee to go. The space has a cute, thoughtfully curated aesthetic, and while I didn’t try the food, the pastries looked fresh and tempting. That said, it’s not the most comfortable spot for an extended sit—seating consists mainly of wooden benches with no back support. It’s also not ideal for working or studying, as no outlets are available to charge laptops. This might not be the best fit if you’re looking for a workspace. Parking in front of the shop is tight, but there’s a lot directly across the street that makes access easier. All in all, Catalina is a go-to neighborhood. It's a spot for enjoyable coffee and conversation. If you’re coming here to relax and unplug rather than plug-in, this is your spot!

This place is a classic Houston coffee shop that's been a local favorite for years. The atmosphere is cozy and classic, with a bustling, always-busy vibe. The baristas are incredibly friendly and welcoming. I ordered a flat white, and while the coffee was good, it wasn't very strong. The only downside is that the seating isn't the most comfortable, so it's not the ideal spot for a long working/ studying session.

I’ve lived in this area for almost 10 years and this is my all time favorite coffee spot in Houston! We have made it a hobby to try new places once every weekend and always rank Catalina at the top of our list. It’s consistent and fast even with a steady line! I recommend the Iced Cinnamon Latte and La Colina espresso!

Great coffee, great pastries - nice vibe! A line when I got there but it moved at a good pace. The iced oat milk latte was great! I'd certainly go back just for the coffee. The pastries were also yummy - I got a chocolate hip cookie and a blueberry muffin. Not too sweet, fresh and good!

Good coffee at a reasonable price, but the place could really use some renovation and a deep clean—it feels a bit neglected. The outdoor seating is also a downside; the chairs are uncomfortable and awkwardly positioned right up against the building, making it hard to relax and enjoy. Not a fan of the setup overall.

Catalina has been a staple coffee shop in Houston for years. I remember when I used to visit them back when I was in middle school, and I finally visited them again a decade later as a college graduate. It still has that cozy and casual interior with artistic works on the wall, which are available for sale. I got a hot fall spiced latte. The latte has a creamy texture with lots of froth, which I personally really like, and the latte was reasonably priced. Seating can be limited, as the space is quite small. There is parking in the back, but it is shared with a business and can get full. There was also a line, and the wait can take some time. Overall, Catalina Coffee has a vibrant but laid-back atmosphere and emphasizes on no-frills coffee, focusing on the basics, essentials, and consistency.

Catalina is one of my favorite coffee shops in Houston. If you’re into really excellent coffee from different sources, this is a great pick because they rotate their single origin espresso and gold cup options almost daily The service is lovely, always - and the ambiance is always peaceful. A fair warning that parking can get packed and tricky due to other folks parking in their lot in the area - there is street parking for free if you need it though just don’t be afraid to walk a little!

Best flat white in Houston hands down! Their prices are very affordable AND they don’t up charge for alternative milk!!

10/10 ill be back for a relaxing atmosphere. I will say the line gets long quick but makes sense. Croissants are yummy and lattes are 10/10

I've been coming to Catalina Coffee for years and I love this place! Located near buffalo bayou park offering delicious coffee and a cold brew that is made very specific and a process you can see behind the counter. Their coffee beans have a great flavor even without any sugar added! My go to anywhere is a Honey & Cinnamon iced latte which is what I always order when I stop by. Interior is not too small or too big it's calm enough to study. They have outdoor seating and good parking behind the shop. The service is always friendly and helpful if you have any questions. If your out for a run or a walk near Buffalo Bayou park stop by this coffee shop you won't be disappointed 10/10

Catalina has been a staple coffee shop in Houston for years. I remember when I used to visit them back when I was in middle school, and I finally visited them again a decade later as a college graduate. It still has that cozy and casual interior with artistic works on the wall, which are available for sale. I got a hot fall spiced latte. The latte has a creamy texture with lots of froth, which I personally really like, and the latte was reasonably priced. Seating can be limited, as the space is quite small. There is parking in the back, but it is shared with a business and can get full. There was also a line, and the wait can take some time. Overall, Catalina Coffee has a vibrant but laid-back atmosphere and emphasizes on no-frills coffee, focusing on the basics, essentials, and consistency.

I'm not sure what's happened, but it's been a while since I've actually enjoyed a drink here. No matter how much time in between visits, and no matter which house made syrup I get, the lattes have been flavorless. The espresso itself seems lost, and it's just not been pleasant to drink. I'm not sure I have more chances left in me for it to be redeemed at this point.

Wow - it's been 12 years since my first review, and I definitely have returned to Catalina Coffee over the years. So it's time I update my review and give 'em some love! This is an OG Houston coffee house that focuses on coffee (no matcha lattes here!) - though they do serve up one of the best chai (and mocha chai) lattes of my life. They use Amaya Coffee beans and all of they syrups are made in-house. They still don't have the most comfy seating or outlets, so this isn't a spot ideal for laptop time. So bring a book instead or a friend to have some great convo over great coffee. Also, love that they still have an active community "flyer board" ...takes me back 20 years when you'd see this at every true neighborhood coffee house.

Cute cafe with good coffee! There isn't any WiFi but a good amount of tables to sit at to chat or do work. There's a bit of parking at the back which is good as people seem to come in and out. Staff is super friendly! Would definitely come back to try more.

Good coffee. Paper to-go mugs. No one working since they have a no-laptop policy. Only have a few mediocre looking pastries to choose from

Came by on a Sunday morning for cars n coffee order got messed up and they realized it. Refunded us and remade our order. Very appreciated.

The coffee? Con$i$tent. 7.8/10 The service? Good. The ambiance? There is no WiFi and no outlets - this venue is particularly crafted for the coffee connoisseur and nothing more. Maybe a mere discussion could be had, but not the best working environment unless you can read with noise.

Catalina Coffee offers ample parking (I went on Black Friday) and although it was busy still enough parking. The service was great as the 3 ladies behind the counter were hustling and very efficient. Flat white was bold, rich, and smooth all the same time. For the value this place is good as well. This place also has a small cozy vibe to it too.

Great local coffee shop. They serve locally roasted coffee. Staff is friendly and coffee is great. The cookies and snacks are worth it as well

No outlets. No wifi. Definitely a place to chat not a place to work. Wished I had known before driving across town

PSA- NO WIFI, NO OUTLETS. The coffee is delicious! They seem to have a great atmosphere between customers and baristas, lots of regulars. I had a cafe con leche- classique. Can't wait to try other options! The pastries looked delicious but didn't try any.

Friendly service, a really welcoming atmosphere. Didn't have time to try more than an espresso here, but enjoyed the moment... as did the regulars who are recognized.

Checked this place out on a Friday evening after a walk in Buffalo Bayou Park. It's a minimal type of place. It didn't strike me as esthetically pleasing or inspirational. Pro: It stays open past when most coffee shops stay open. Cons: Coffee is just okay (mocha latte). Pastries are okay (cheese danish). They don't have a way to warm up the pastry for you... :( All in all, this is an average coffee place, that'll get the job done.

Fall spice latte - 7.5/10 - $4.50 - Creamy and strong but not very sweet. I couldnt really taste the flavor but the prices for the drinks were some of the cheapest ive seen in the Houston area for coffee.

I've had quite a few people recommend Catalina Coffee to me, and I was finally able to make a trip over there. I'm glad I came in when I did because right after I ordered, a whole line of people popped in. No wonder it had so many people, it was one of the best coffees I had in awhile. The girl at the register was super nice and helped me decide on whether to get it iced or hot. She recommended it iced, and it was a great choice. For the prices, I was shocked at how cheap it was compared to the rest of the Heights area. It had 2016 prices (and it's 2023 as I write this) so I was grateful it didn't cost an arm and a leg to get a good cup of coffee.

House made syrups very friendly and not a long wait. Prices are great, and close to work

Straightforward. Simple. Sublime. With its industrial artsy flare, this little coffee shop is a business titan. For seventeen years--or so the very friendly barista shared--Catalina is a quiet bastion. You could choose the over-marketed and over-priced Seattle brand, OR you could tuck away in a hipster dreamland. My only complaint is the lack of back support among their seating options...but, really, who cares about comfort when you have coffee.

Very nice and cozy spot with some of the best pour over in the Houston area! The staff was very welcoming and helpful. I bought a bag of beans to take home and they gave me a complimentary sticker and espresso shot for the road.

When people find out that I'm into coffee, 9/10 times people ask me, " have you tried Catalina Coffee?" And I would have to say no and give some random excuse. Today I decided to reverse this pattern and check them out to see if they're as good as people say. And so I am happy to say I agree. I could not decide what to get, so I got their drip coffee and their lavender oat latte. They were brewing La Paloma, a medium roast that was balanced, smooth, with subtle sugar sweetness. It had some nice strong earthy tones without being too much. It really hit the spot for me. Apparently it's one of the more approachable coffees, one that will satisfy the coffee newcomer and the coffee snob alike. The lavender latte was excellent - you can really taste the lavender and it balanced nicely. I also recommend the pumpkin spice pastry/croissant. It had a crumbly, flaky texture with good amounts of pumpkin filling inside. Really a great combination with the coffees. I would recommend asking the baristas for their recs. They definitely know their coffees and they can explain the nuances of each coffee without being overly too technical or snobbish. Outstanding service and really enjoyed my visit. Now I can answer yes to the original question!

We consider ourselves lucky to call Catalina our neighborhood coffee shop. This place is a great spot that serves great coffee, pastries and locally roasted coffee beans. The baristas are always friendly and the drinks come out pretty fast. One thing to keep in mind is that they don't really encourage you to plug in your computer and do some work - they do have a small inside area and some tables outside - but mainly I see this place as a grab and go or sit down and have a quick chit chat with a friend kinda place. So if you're looking for a place where you can get some work done, this is not it. Overall, if you're looking for a great local coffee shop this is the spot. Just make sure to leave your work behind and enjoy the charm of this coffee shop for what it is.

Coffee is mediocre I tried the latte it was like water diluted with coffee The service is pretty damn good though I run into a bunch of car meetups on Sunday Super crowded and little messed in the shop

We stopped in for a quick coffee a few weeks back and we're underwhelmed. I think there's definitely potential for this to be a cool coffee shop but they may want to change somethings. Coffee: We got an Americano and it was bad.... like undrinkable bad... it seemed like the beans had been burned or something. That alone put me off of returning anytime in the future. We shared a few sips and then left it. Food: We had 2 baked goods which were fine but honestly I can't remember what they were. They didn't make much of an impression and really just helped us get over the coffee taste Parking: There seems to be a good amount of parking for the size of the space. We had no issues getting a spot. Parking is behind the building. Ambiance: I really liked the open rafter ceiling look and the design overall. That being said, all the surfaces were hard and I can't imagine hanging out here for a while. I did like that they had a huge bulletin for local posters/announcements. They also had photography prints on the walls that matched the space and were available for purchase (I believe). There are some nearby pokestops you can reach if you're here so if you still play pokemkn go that could be a bonus for you

Wish I had read the reviews prior to coming. They don't offer wifi AND there are no visible outlets hence the stars. Ordered the Chai Latte and it was pretty good. 5/5 The parking lot is very small and coffee shop itself is small. The seats are mostly little benches with no back support. Not the place to do work or study.

Cute cozy vibes. Friendly service. Good drinks. I tried the honey lavender latte with the house made syrups and appreciated that the drink was not too sweet! It's not a huge place, so maybe don't plan on meeting up with a group of 3+ but for a coffee date or study spot it's great!

Vibe- Such a cozy coffee shop, they had me at whatever playlist they were playing because it was giving early 2000s (roll out x Ludacris is the song I walked in on lol) There's a good amount of seating outside and 3 square tables with a bar across the back wall with some seats inside. There's a door on the front of the building and there's a back door too that leads into the parking lot outside. *I noticed pictures on the walls all around and asked the barista that rung me up about them, she said they are by a local photographer (Robert A. Sykes) from his trip to New York. I think it's neat that they use art from locals!* Customer service- Great! Food/drinks- I ordered a hot chai tea with vanilla and oatmilk; it was yummy. Parking- There's a few spots on the street right in front of the building and there's a lot out back with a good amount of parking

My sister in law's name is Catalina so she asked if we could go to this place since it's been on her list. I obviously said yes! The line was super long (for a reason). I got a drip coffee and a mochi muffin and wow--as a texture person, I didn't think I would like it but it was incredible. The toasted coconut made it taste like a crème brûlée. The atmosphere was so nice and the prices were extraordinarily low. I now understand why the line was out the door! The staff was super friendly and crazy fast at knocking out orders. Will be back!

Catalina coffee pros and cons: Pros: Coffee consistent, use a La Marzoco coffee machine, scones delicious, location great because it's down the street from us. Cons: some of the staff are as bitter as some coffees, the parking lot is overcrowded, the Sunday car shows make it impossible to grab a quick cup of Joe.

Definitely a spot oriented to a coffee lover more than someone looking for a spot to work. I was visiting from out of town and my buddy recommended we meet up here. Glad we did as this spot was a nice find, even though I'm not from Houston. Will have to swing through for another latte if I find myself in Houston again. My only gripe would be the service seemed a bit slow... but that may be the sacrifice for getting good coffee. Good coffee takes time.

Put the friendlier people at the cash register and let the rude people make the coffee. If I'm gonna spend $15 on coffee it'd be nice if yall were nice.

I checked out this coffee shop because I was just curious and am trying to explore more houston coffee spots. Out of the ones I've been to, this one didn't really leave much impression on me. The vibes insides are definitely more dark and grungey and seating is a bit low since it's wooden benches, but I can see this place being good spot to catch up with a friend if you're in the area. I don't think it's a good place to study since there aren't any outlets or bigger tables. As for their coffee, we tried out their lavender latte and seasonal fall spice latte and it was kind of watery and espresso flavor was not very strong. They also have a parking lot that is behind their shop and it was super crowded when I checked them out on the weekend. Overall, it's a good coffeeshop with friendly baristas but not sure if I'd personally revisit!

This place is amazing. Cute vibe with delicious coffee! The coffee staff were so sweet. They even charged my phone for me. I love it here and will be back!!!

Some of the best black coffee in Houston. Cold or hot black coffee is great. Staff is also very friendly. Not my favorite layout for studying/working on the laptop but great seating to enjoy a coffee with a friend.

I definitely had one of the worst chai lattes I've ever had in my life... Now why was is tart and lukewarm? I ordered online and actually arrived earlier than the expected completion time and my beverage was on the counter. Now initially excited because there are efficient but when I tasted it...ught trash, basura like I should have asked them to remake it but it was a cluster of people I side in addition to all the girls that were out showing off their tiny sports cars standing in the street. Soo I left and likely won't be back. 2 stars for efficiency and price that's it.

A contemporary industrial space. Lots of seating but a little uncomfortable - think like a park bench - utilitarian but you can't really settle in. Service is fast and kind Coffee great tasting and fresh. The kind of place you go for coffee, not to loiter and do work.

We've been here twice, about 5 years ago and a few days ago, both visits scored some great coffee. For some reason I overlooked doing a review so here it is. I picked up a bag of Amaya Coffee Roasters whole beans, temporada, an espresso, I love the beans and the presence of a roast date on the bag. We enjoyed a couple iced mocha coffees. Check out the huge gorilla mural across the street.

Cool coffee shop! Pros: - The chai tea latte: I got mine with almond milk, super creamy and delicious. Not too sweet nor was it too watery. - Cool vibe, grungey, masculine aesthetic. Cons: - no outlets, come charged up - The chairs are wooden benches which get uncomfy after a while.

TLDR: If you are catching up with friends or getting some quick work done, this is a good spot for you. Parking - Parking is located behind the shop. I stopped by on a weekday around noonish, and they were about 60-70 percent full. I can't imagine what it will look like during the weekend. Also, they are still running at a reduced seating capacity. Comfort - There is NO WiFi service! The chairs are hard and uncomfortable. This is why this coffee shop is not good to look for a place to get some work done. However, I did stay for a couple of hours using my hotspot. As you see customers coming in and out, you can tell many of them have a good relationship with the baristas. Most customers there were in a group. Either working on something together or just catching up. There are also local flyers posted inside. If you live around the area, this might be a perk for you. The shop is also super cleaned and neat. Coffee - I order a Cortado. Nothing special, and I have no complaints either. Design - Love the fact that they have art all over the wall. They all have information on how to purchase them, who the artist is, and the price. One thing I would love to know is how often they rotate those arts out. On I really love the design and atmosphere. Like I mentioned before, if you are by yourself and trying to get some work done, this is not the spot. If you are grabbing a cup of coffee with a friend, check this place out!!

Cute little coffee shop. Lots of pastries, whole bean coffee and other coffee wares available. The coffee was perfect. Definitely try out their house syrups. Today I tried latte with the amaretto with oat milk- delicious.

Cool little coffee joint on Washington in the Rice Military area. They actually have parking behind the shop; big plus. Interior is small but has the right vibe. Coffee prices and selection is decent and their coffee is good. Definitely a good cafe stop for this area.

We visited Catalina Coffee mid morning. The parking is in the back, so we circled the block. I think this was what contributed to my luck. Two patrons were leaving and I was able to park near the door. The staff was very friendly. We enjoyed: - Two iced vanilla lattes one with honey - Iced Chai Vanilla latte - Lemon poppyseed muffin - Oatmeal cookie - Chocolate chip cookie The store front was very clean and there were plenty of seats even though it was mostly full. We took our beverages and tasty treats to go. As we were leaving, someone was waiting to park in the spot we vacated. I definitely recommend you giving them a try. We will definitely be back.

Best customer service ever! Coffee is so delicious and addictive! Place inside is nice. If your a coffee person go out and try it!

My friend had heard about this place and wanted to check it out so I went with her. The lines to order and then wait for coffee were long when we got there and stayed as we left. That said, staff were all polite and none of the guests waiting seemed irritable. I personally didn't get anything but my friend got and iced latte which she really liked and she said she would totally go back there again - she is the Yelp Elite that got me Yelping and interested in Elite status so I take her opinions serious and would definitely go there again to try for myself. The ambiance was very chill - people talking, working in their laptops, reading etc. The only thing I didn't care too much for is the fact that they only have a limited number of pastries for snacking so you can't go there hungry except if pastries are your jam and you don't mind filling up on them. Otherwise, I enjoyed being there and recommend checking it out at least once.

Best coffee in Houston. The quality of the espresso is exactly what you'd expect from a premier coffee place or authentic Italian coffee bar.

Great coffee spot! Seating: outdoor and indoor (side area has shade) Taste: coffee on spot the apple pie (not sure exactly what was the name but croissant looking like taste delicious. Also tried the almond and this one was a bit too sweet for me. Do not have heating option. I usually prefer my bread a bit warm. Parking: plenty Staff: friendly and helpful Area very clean.

This place was a great coffee shop that hit the all the right spots, it had the decor that made it feel rustic with the drinks to help ease you into the relaxing area. I did really like the specialty drink that the cashier recommended which was a lavender vanilla oat milk latte According to the cashier the lavender and vanilla bean flavors were house made syrups that they mix in with the oat milk and a shot of pulled espresso. I'm not going to act like I know what that all means because I don't really drink coffee but the result was a sweet and slightly earthy taste that helped to smooth out the butter notes one might get with harsh coffee flavors I would recommend for the coffee alone, there were some aspects that detracted me from giving this place a full five stars and it's mostly due to the lack of wall outlets partial because the interior is surrounded by brick and I'm sure that played a part but working out of this coffee shop may not be the best and the music was a little loud as I was on a call with a friend and they could barely hear me Overall I still would come back again but if they lowered the music and provided some kind of wall outside or surge protector that would definitely make this a more of my vibe but that's because I enjoy working out of coffee shops and enjoying the ambiance

This is a cute little coffee shop. This place is great for meeting a friend or study session. The menu is limited to coffee and pastries. Parking is in the back of the building.

We came here to study with friends and were thoroughly disappointed in their seating, complete lack of wall outlets, and quite loud music. This place definitely doesn't want you to stay long and study here. I would only come back here to meet up with friends and chat. That said, their coffee is actually really good. They offered two different types of beans for their espresso, which I appreciated. My americano came out with really bright and crisp notes and a complex finish. Definitely on my short list for best coffee in Houston. I didn't get to try their lattes, but I imagine that their house blend would be better in the latte. This place really caters to coffee snobs and those who like lighter roast and acidic coffee. However, students seeking a comfy place to work effectively -- beware.