The Reading Room

Coffee shop · Decatur

The Reading Room

Coffee shop · Decatur

1

429 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030

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The Reading Room by null
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The Reading Room by null
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The Reading Room by null
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The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
The Reading Room by null
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Highlights

The Reading Room in Decatur is a charming coffee shop by day offering cozy vibes, delectable pastries, and drinks that transform into a lively wine bar by night.  

Featured in Eater
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429 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030 Get directions

thereadingroomatl.com
@thereadingroomdecaturga

$1–10

Reserve

Information

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429 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030 Get directions

+1 404 855 5653
thereadingroomatl.com
@thereadingroomdecaturga

$1–10

Reserve

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reservations
outdoor seating

Last updated

Jul 5, 2025

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@eater

"Kristin Radcliffe and Mary Tveit opened the Reading Room intending to offer a variety of beverages at any time of day. They offer coffee options like espresso shots and cold brew, as well as cocktails such as the Corpse Reviver and Grasshopper. They also feature evening fare including various charcuterie boards." - Denise K. James

Four Atlanta Shops Offering Coffee, Cocktails, and Community - Eater Atlanta
View Postcard for The Reading Room

Kathryn Fox

Google
The vibes were immaculate. Loved the decor and the ambiance. The music choice was a bit odd, but that was okay. The food and drinks were where the experience went a little south. We got 4 drinks, 2 of each of the February specials, and the difference between them was stark. They didn't even taste like the same drinks. The espresso tasted burnt as well, and the matcha was watery. The sandwiches we got, the turkey panini and the chicken salad sandwich, and the panini was definitely a panini. They were busy, so I understand why service was slow, but it was slow for everything, even a cookie.

Shami Patel

Google
Came here for breakfast with my husband and child. We got the brunch charcuterie board which was perfect for two people, a croissant that was toasted which was delicious and flaky, and two lattes. We got a pumpkin spice flavor which wasn’t that good and didn’t have a strong flavor and the baklava flavor which also wasn’t that tasty and didn’t have a strong flavor. design inside is very cute and nice. Service was good.

Maggie Ho

Google
The inside decor is beautiful and very cozy- they all fit the theme. It’s very busy and compact with tables and chairs. The WiFi wasn’t working for us when we were there, which made studying hard. It’s a mix of a talking and studying cafe. There are some outdoor chairs and not a lot of outlets. I got a small hot sunrise, which tasted so good as a hot drink. I loved the little latte art. I was not a fan of either beers sadly; both were not good in my opinion. I also like how this place switches from a cafe to bar.

Kat Eats

Google
The Reading Room is such a gem of a coffee shop in the heart of Decatur Square. The ambiance draws you in with the beautiful mural outside, ceiling decor, and arch in the back made from books. There’s a good amount of seating, but during peak times, it may be hard to find a table for more than 2 people. They limit stays to 2hrs to turn over tables. They have great selection of coffees, teas, pastries from Saint Germaine, and hot dishes for brunch/lunch too. I’ve only tried their matcha and teas so far; so far so good. I like that they use tea leaves. You’ll get your tea in a pot that has a strainer so the leaves don’t pour out. Let it steep for a couple minutes, then pour into your cup :) I like visiting to catch up with friends or grab a drink to go while shopping around the Square.

Jazz T

Google
I didn’t order any food but I had the February special Matcha Latte. It was a great balance and boost I needed to power through the rest of work I had to do for today. After ordering my drink was at my table within minutes and everyone seemed kind. I was lucky enough to get a table and complete my work. I had on headphones, but the music choice wasn’t bad at all. It can be a little loud. Also, after 5pm it turns into a wine bar, so no laptops.

S. Watts

Google
This cozy little spot offers a welcoming vibe that’s ideal for catching up with friends or even a cute first date (just be mindful of the 2 hr max seating policy). After 5 PM, it turns into a wine bar, complete with live music on Friday evenings (sadly we weren't able to stay for this) The staff was incredibly friendly, creating a warm and family-like atmosphere. Special shoutout to Zack, who was AMAZING! He was attentive, polite, and made sure we had everything we needed. The food here is simple yet delightful. I tried the warm tomato bisque and the turkey panini with Swiss cheese and peach jam...perfection! The location, is at the corner of Ponce and Church Street, right next to F2O. Parking is free after 5 PM on Fridays, which is a huge plus!

The Hilarryous Chew

Google
The ambience was amazing. The decorations were fit for this type of restaurant. It is a little cramped in the inside, but I could dig the vibe. It was a little pricey. I ordered the feta charcuterie and when I say the flavors hit you in the mouth— they hit you in the mouth. The flavors worked together however they were so fresh the taste was strong. It was good but to enjoy I felt like my palette had to adjust. What was really good was the ham and Brie sandwich. That sandwich was money . It was the good ham not that deli ham that other people use and that made the sandwich. I don’t know about that chicken salad sandwich though. Took a bite and it was nothing but celery and raisins. The complementary water was a nice touch , however it was not chilled and on a hot day it was kind of warm. Overall I enjoyed my experience and I might bring my laptop to work and get another ham sandwich.

Djillisser Kelly

Google
Reading the room and sipping my sunrise latte. —letting the day unfold one sip at a time was my entire mood during my visit! The Reading Room, located in the City of Decatur, is a truly essential spot. The ambiance is inviting, with shelves of books, cozy seating, and a charming half bar. If you prefer some fresh air, there's also an outdoor patio where you can enjoy your drink or meal. It's a place that offers options for every mood. I went for the Sunrise Latte, a delightful blend of double espresso, Indian Gulab Jamun syrup, orange extract, and a few other spices. I have to say, it exceeded my expectations! I'm excited to explore the rest of the menu, which offers plenty of tempting options. They even have a weekend brunch! However, during this visit, I decided to skip the food and pastries as I was already full from my morning breakfast. A few things to note: while there is some street parking available, there are also parking lots nearby for added convenience. The staff is limited, so it's important to pack your patience as they work hard to accommodate everyone. You also have the option to RSVP in advance. They also host events here, so be sure to stay tuned for updates and resources. I’m looking forward to visiting again soon!

Gretel Y.

Yelp
I spent the night at a nearby hotel for a girls' night during our trip to Atlanta back in December. The morning after, my husband came to pick me up, and since I wasn't quite ready, I asked him to stop by The Reading Room to grab me a latte and a veggie quiche. He returned shortly. He brought back my go-to, an oat milk latte with honey and cinnamon powder. It was great, with a perfect balance of honey and cinnamon. The quiche was warm and delicious, and the portion was generous enough for us to share. I wish I could have seen the coffee shop in person; it looks very cool in photos!

Andi P.

Yelp
5 Stars for the perfect spot to grab great coffee, a baked good, and cowork with friends. I recently stayed in Decatur and wow- this little main street is perfection. How have I been sleeping on Decatur?! My girly, Erica E was coworking at The Reading Room and snagged us a good table. She was rolling in with a cart for use at an event later and they were very accommodating. In terms of parking, there's some street parking and lots nearby, and the 'hood is perfect for a short walk up to the coffee shop. The inside is warm and inviting, but they also have an outdoor patio out front for nice weather days. I got a cappuccino and a plain croissant, which the man at the counter warmed up for me. We sat right by the archway of books, and I saw plenty of books on the shelves that seemed ripe for borrowing. Apparently they have plenty of outlets (my computer was fully charged) and they also have their wifi password readily available at the counter, though it wasn't quite working for me, so I used a hotspot from my phone. Looking forward to returning to try their lunch menu in the future!

Camille F.

Yelp
Gorgeous little coffee shop tucked into downtown Decatur. Decor is pretty, bathrooms have fun wallpaper. I had a London Fog which hit the spot on this frigid Atlanta day. It was very crowded, butts in chairs! Definitely not the place to do work quietly, you must be able to work with some background noise. Wifi wasn't working when I was here, but really seemed like a novel problem. They had a good looking selection of pastries and a pretty standard coffee menu. Not too bright in here, no need to worry about a glare on your computer screen. They also had a pretty patio in the front! Outdoor would be perfect for a 1-on-1 catch up with a friend!

Ashley B.

Yelp
The reading room is the perfect destination for a locked in work sesh. The volume was loud enough for me to chat but quiet enough for me to focus. I just went for a classic latte and it hit the spot. I wish I didn't eat breakfast so I could try out some of their delicious looking pastries but guess I will just have to come back! Parking is a bit spotty (and pricy) as it is located in Decatur square but opt for the Marta if you can and you'll see reading room right off the blue line decatur station.

Rose A.

Yelp
I had the amazing opportunity to visit the Reading Room both last Wednesday and tonight during their tarot card reading event. First things first: the vibe. The ambiance is cozy and charming, with beautiful chandeliers and a cute basket arrangement that adds a homey touch. The bathrooms are even cute, which is rare to mention in a review, but it's true! The spot itself has a small front patio with a few tables, making it an intimate, low-key venue--perfect for a date or a pre-dinner cocktail if you're in the area. During both visits, I tried a few delicious pastries: the almond croissant and the cinnamon apple tart. Between the two, the almond croissant was my favorite, but my cousin absolutely loved the cinnamon apple tart. She also indulged in their mudslide cookie both times, which she can't get enough of! The cocktails are fantastic--definitely not skimpy pours. I had the Affogato Espresso Martini with a Luxardo cherry (which was a delicious touch), and also tried the "From Russia with Love," a white Russian that was amazing. My cousin had the Hugo 75 and said it was strong and perfectly made. She also tried the Bulgarian latte, though I don't recall the exact syrup brand. Both of us agreed we'd definitely be back. The Reading Room hosts various events, too. I know they had a talk about menopause, and there was a book signing between my visits. They also do tarot card readings monthly , and there's always something new to check out. For those looking for a fun experience, I highly recommend coming with friends or a date, ordering a cocktail, and just soaking in the vibe. They also have a whiskey or bourbon flight that we plan to try next time. I took photos of the menu because I noticed the one online isn't fully updated. For example, the Cosmo listed online wasn't on the current in-house menu, so be sure to check out my photos if you're curious about what's available right now. In terms of service, the first night we visited was excellent--very attentive and quick, though it was a quieter night with no event. Tonight, with a busier crowd and an event in full swing, it took a bit longer for someone to take our orders, and check back, but the staff was still friendly and accommodating. I think it's fair to expect some slower service during events, but overall, I was happy with the service both times. To sum it up: The Reading Room is a wonderful spot to visit any time of day. It starts as a café in the morning and transitions into a wine and cocktail bar in the evening. They offer a variety of boards--like charcuterie, feta, and dessert boards--throughout the day. I'll definitely be back for more, especially to try the flights and other fun events!

Michael W.

Yelp
This by far one of the biggest hidden gems I've found in a long time!! they have great service and ambience that says let's read and have a cocktail or even a something from the cafe . I had a great time but finding it initially was hard but I ended up walking pass and it's in between two business . The seating is limited but they have a bar where you can work and relax . My go to for meetings on the weekend now . Good WiFi and great atmosphere. Little pricey but good .

Siobhan L.

Yelp
The reading room was such a good vibe! Seemingly queer friendly which is a huge plus. Beautiful beverage options & sweet servers. My only hang up was its title. I assumed that because it's called the reading room books would play more of a role in the overall theme. I expected at the very least a small library to pull from, perhaps some lax seating. It's a pretty nice cafe so definitely worth the stop if you need a pick me up!

Annabelle G.

Yelp
Absolute gem of a cafe/wine bar located in downtown Decatur! I've been to do work during the day and for the post 5pm wine bar, the ambiance was perfect in both experiences. Really cute date night spot as well!! They don't allow computers after 5pm btw! The only qualm I had was the WiFi was weird during the day but the coffee made up for it! 5/5 food - espresso martini was delicious but expensive, charcuterie was also filling and so good! 5/5 service - our waiter was so kind and conversational 5/5 ambiance - the inside is so cute and they had a live dj going at night

Nicole W.

Yelp
The aesthetics are perfect here, it's so cute! I made a reservation for 4 on a Friday night when they had live music. The artist started a bit late, but we didn't mind. Our table was at the front so the music was a tad loud and made it kind of hard to have a conversation. The staff was great. They checked on us just enough without being interruptive. I only ordered 2 drinks but I liked the number of drink options. Food options are more limited. I will definitely be back when they have live music. It's a perfect chill but elevated date night. Parking: paid lots and street parking in downtown Decatur.

Jade R.

Yelp
Wow! This is such a cute spot in downtown Decatur. The ambience is very relaxing and a great spot to study or meet a friend. The Hera coffee is so delicious but very almond forward. The pastries are very fresh and the strawberry danish was incredible!

Carol Lynn S.

Yelp
First walked very crowed mostly with young teenagers loud Ordered the Hera very good also ordered the London fog my daughter liked it The coffee courtesy of St Germains good the vibe nice the staff very nice The decor very nice the prices fair

Shami P.

Yelp
Came here for breakfast with my husband and child. We got the brunch charcuterie board which was perfect for two people, a croissant that was toasted which was delicious and flaky, and two lattes. We got a pumpkin spice flavor which wasn't that good and didn't have a strong flavor and the baklava flavor which also wasn't that tasty and didn't have a strong flavor. design inside is very cute and nice. Service was good.

Timothy B.

Yelp
Overcrowded. Looking for a quiet chill spot on a Saturday and this is not it. Coffee good but this place has become the trendy downtown Decatur spot.

Allegra W.

Yelp
I found this place via TikTok. It surpassed everything they showed on the video. It's absolutely gorgeous inside. Very soft, I felt cozy, and felt as though I could read an entire book there. It's kind of tucked into the street. I almost missed the building. I ordered before I sat down. I placed an order for their pink matcha (featured drink) and the chicken salad sandwich. Which came with two pickles on the side, and some zesty potato chips. The people on shift were very kind. Note: after 5pm you cannot have laptops out, as it becomes a wine bar after 5. And I absolutely love this. You cannot come in for a breakfast, read your book, and stay for a glass of wine later. Everything was really clean, I felt like a little princess with my gold silverware. I will be back, and stay longer.

Garrett O.

Yelp
Came here thinking this was a spot to really chill and work until 5 when it turns more into a bar, and unfortunately I was disappointed. Don't get me wrong, it is a nice place, but it is definitely a restaurant and not intended for you to be there for an extended period of time. They even have a little paper popup on the table that request that you limit your time to two hours. Either way, I'm not going to fault them for my misunderstanding based on a Facebook reel. The reason I give this place a 4/5 is just because of the limited seating of the venue. If the place was packed, I just see a bunch of people being annoyed from sitting at the bar getting accidently hit in the back by people walking down the one way aisle to the bathroom or to their seat trying to avoid the people who are in the chairs that are kinda sorta a fourth of the way if not more in the middle of the one person walk way. Beyond that there are positives I assure you. The staff was very welcoming and inviting, very patient for those like myself who had never been before and my girlfriend who is picky about her coffee and wanting to know what this is and what that is. I saw something that I knew and automatically went for it: The Cortado which is simply espresso and milk. The menu says 4-6 oz for $4, but I was not asked how many oz I wanted, or maybe it just depends on what cups they have in stock. It is what it is. It was good. I thought it would taste good with pumpkin seasoning in it, because you know, fall flavors, and it did, but I should have just got it made regularly. I did get it with oat milk instead of regular milk, which I think is probably the one thing that saved it from the taste of the pumpkin spice. To eat I got a bacon and egg biscuit. It was acceptable. Wasn't exactly a fan of the price, $10, which I did not see listed anywhere, but it was my first meal of the day, so I'm not going to complain. I wish I had gotten the cheese Danish that my girlfriend got though, it was on point and tasted sooo good heated up, though she did have to ask them to heat it up a second time, which for some reason seemed to take a while and there were not really a lot of people in there. Lastly, it should go without saying that since it was downtown, there is no public parking, at least none that I saw, but I paid roughly $3 for 1 hour street parking, so, ehh, I didn't feel too hurt. Final verdict: Venue: 3/5 Service: 4/5 Food: 4/5 Overall, nice spot, at least based on the before 5 vibe, because it changes over into more of a wine based venue afterwards, but in terms of the breakfast aesthetics, I would say try it, but I won't be back.

Liv J.

Yelp
Beautiful little gem in Downtown Decatur! Just wonderful and kind staff, great ambiance, so cheerful and welcoming, the yummy delicious food displays. I had the chocolate croissants, and it was delicious. We will come again for lunch, or brunch.

Erica E.

Yelp
Such a cute place! I visited The Reading Room one weekday morning to get some work done and I'm so glad that I did. Located in the buzzing Decatur area, this restaurant is truly in a prime location. With little street parking open on that morning, I ended up parking at a nearby lot and taking a quick stroll through the beautiful neighborhood for my visit. Upon entry, I was blown away by the beautiful interior decor. Such a gorgeous place! There are a few small tables outside on their terrace as well bar-top seating and a few tables indoors. Not a huge place or a place to bring a large group, but I think that's a great thing because it was so peaceful even as folks chattered about. I snagged a table close to the door because I saw an open outlet that my dying macbook desperately needed, but apparently there are plugs under the seats! (I struggled to find mine but I think that was user error lol). Logging onto the wifi was super easy as they clearly display the password at the counter. I did have to leave early because my connection dropped and it would no longer allow me to access it, but beyond that, it was great while it lasted. The team was incredibly helpful and they were moving swiftly through the other customers that were hustling through. I was surprised that there ended up being some small lines building as the afternoon went on, but when you're serving up greatness, that's what happens! I ended up grabbing a latte and an almond croissant that was flaky, toasted and delicious. I was just a few minutes shy of their lunch menu starting up and hate that I missed out, but I will definitely be returning to try out the rest of the menu as the options sounded so good. Visiting for an early morning afternoon of remote work was wonderful but I'm definitely looking forward to checking out their events, wine specials and charcuterie boards!

D'Jillisser K.

Yelp
Reading the room and sipping my sunrise latte. --letting the day unfold one sip at a time was my entire mood during my visit! The Reading Room, located in the City of Decatur, is a truly essential spot. The ambiance is inviting, with shelves of books, cozy seating, and a charming half bar. If you prefer some fresh air, there's also an outdoor patio where you can enjoy your drink or meal. It's a place that offers options for every mood. I went for the Sunrise Latte, a delightful blend of double espresso, Indian Gulab Jamun syrup, orange extract, and a few other spices. I have to say, it exceeded my expectations! I'm excited to explore the rest of the menu, which offers plenty of tempting options. They even have a weekend brunch! However, during this visit, I decided to skip the food and pastries as I was already full from my morning breakfast. A few things to note: while there is some street parking available, there are also parking lots nearby for added convenience. The staff is limited, so it's important to pack your patience as they work hard to accommodate everyone. You also have the option to RSVP in advance. They also host events here, so be sure to stay tuned for updates and resources. I'm looking forward to visiting again soon!

Cara E.

Yelp
I met a friend for coffee at The Reading Room and it's such a cute spot. It's also a cocktail bar, and that's how it feels. They have a boho vibe, and also a cute little archway lined with books. I ordered a seasonal drink with baklava syrup. It was good! My friend got a smoothie and a latte and enjoyed both. They have signs on the tables saying no laptops after 5pm, so that's great for when it turns into the cocktail bar!

Joy C.

Yelp
A beautiful restaurant with equally satisfying food. Location and Parking Located in downtown Decatur, you will need to pay or hunt for a free spot on the street to park. Venue and Atmosphere Reading Room features a small patio, plenty of seating, and two cozy nooks with couches. They have beautiful light features as well as plenty of natural light. Order at the counter, take a number, and the food will arrive at your seat. I brought my laptop as they have free wifi and a pleasant work environment. They do transition into a wine bar after 5, and no laptops are allowed. Service Service was prompt, courteous, and efficient. Food and Beverages The smoked ham and brie sandwich, as well as the berry smoothie, were tasty. The sandwich is served with chips and the smoothie wasn't overly sweet. Verdict I'll be back!

Rebecca T.

Yelp
Came for breakfast, and it was a busy weekend with a small line inside the store. I think the place was understaffed, as it took a while (15-20 minutes) to get up front and order. Any case, I ordered The Sunrise special, which is a latte spiced with orange and five spices. I ordered it hot, and while the flavors were there, I think the orange flavor part wasn't mixed well enough with the rest of the coffee, so it felt a bit incongruous. My partner and I also got some pastries, including a cinnamon roll, strawberry Danish, and ham and cheese croissant. The cinnamon roll was my favorite, by far: it was warmed up, and it made the pastry extra flaky, extra rich, and just plain good. The strawberry Danish was tasty, but I wasn't a huge fan of the ham and cheese croissant, as there wasn't much ham or cheese inside. Overall, The Reading Room has some good and some inconsistent items, but still worth coming for the atmosphere and vibes. The décor is beautifully-decorated, too, with books and literary themes all around. Worth a try!

Marian D.

Yelp
The ambiance, the music is a viiiiiiiiibe!!!! It's a great feel in here especially for working. I almost don't want to share anything about this place because I don't want to lose my spot by making it packed!! Lol The food, coffees and drinks are great

Ryan M.

Yelp
Probably a great place to eat. But have to come level my frustration here given the fact I made a Valentine's Day reservation 4+ weeks in advance and just had it cancelled 2 hours before we were scheduled. Which is crazy because the only other time the restaurant contacted me was one day early to confirm the reservation. Pretty upset to have been left out to dry like this for our holiday plans.

Danielle S.

Yelp
We hung out with a group of friends on Friday night to check out a musical performance by our friend John. It is such a cute atmosphere, and felt like a mix between a bar and a cute coffee shop. There are lots of small tables against the wall, and the place is tiny. So it was pretty tough to accommodate our group of 8 or so people on a weekend evening. But the staff was very helpful and did everything they could to make it work. I had the hot chocolate and a panini sandwich. The hot chocolate was very milky, so if you are looking for one that isn't very rich, this is your spot. I prefer my hot chocolate to taste like I'm drinking a candy bar, so it wasn't really for me, haha. The panini was fine bar food. They have a large wine and cocktail menu, and lots of charcuterie boards to choose from, so that may have been the better way to go. I love that they support local artists and it's a wonderful place to see live music!

Mariam C.

Yelp
I absolutely loved the ambience of this place! It had such a cozy feel and the drinks just enhanced the experience. I had a matcha latte with the french lavender syrup which tasted amazing!! I also had a spinach quiche that was decent, I just felt it needed a little more salt. This is a perfect place to wfh or get some schoolwork done. I look forward to returning.

Maggie H.

Yelp
The inside decor is beautiful and very cozy- they all fit the theme. It's very busy and compact with tables and chairs. The WiFi wasn't working for us when we were there, which made studying hard. It's a mix of a talking and studying cafe. There are some outdoor chairs and not a lot of outlets. I got a small hot sunrise, which tasted so good as a hot drink. I loved the little latte art. I was not a fan of either beers sadly; both were not good in my opinion. I also like how this place switches from a cafe to bar.

Shantae Y.

Yelp
I visited The Reading Room for the first time an about a month ago to work remotely and I couldn't recommend a better place for folks looking for cute, vibey work from home locations. There was indoor table seating, bar seating and outdoor patio seating, it is pretty popular so finding a seat at 10 AM was a little difficult. They have a nice variety of food options with better options during lunch time. I tried the breakfast sandwich and the chicken salad sandwich when I was there, while both were good I preferred the chicken salad sandwich. The staff were very friendly and despite it being busy it didn't take very long for my food and drinks to come out. Oh, and it's a coffee shop by day, wine bar by night so I'll definitely be back to check it out when it's converted to a wine bar.

Larry T G.

Yelp
The ambience was amazing. The decorations were fit for this type of restaurant. It is a little cramped in the inside, but I could dig the vibe. It was a little pricey. I ordered the feta charcuterie and when I say the flavors hit you in the mouth-- they hit you in the mouth. The flavors worked together however they were so fresh the taste was strong. It was good but to enjoy I felt like my palette had to adjust. What was really good was the ham and Brie sandwich. That sandwich was money . It was the good ham not that deli ham that other people use and that made the sandwich. I don't know about that chicken salad sandwich though. Took a bite and it was nothing but celery and raisins. The complementary water was a nice touch , however it was not chilled and on a hot day it was kind of warm. Overall I enjoyed my experience and I might bring my laptop to work and get another ham sandwich.

Emma S.

Yelp
The cortado with lavender syrup that I had was PHENOMENAL. The baristas were also very friendly. Their music selection and dim lighting made for the perfect studying environment!

Tiffany J.

Yelp
Love this gem of a place!! It is an amazing coffee and wine bar!! Two of my favorite things!! I had coffee as I was just going in to get some work done! There was plenty of seating inside and a little patio outside. It was pretty quiet and the staff were super friendly! The coffee I had was the daily special. It was called The Sunrise. It was made with an Indian Gulab Jamin Syrup, orange extract, and other Indian spices! Delish!!! I also had a Cream Cheese Danish, warmed of course! It was super flaky and buttery! Loved it! If it were closer I'd be at this place everyday!! That's how much I enjoyed it!! Next time, I'm getting a glass of Sauvignon Blanc!

Karla A.

Yelp
The ambiance and drinks are fantastic. Only had Parmesan fries which were great. The service is exceptional.

Cam S.

Yelp
Wonderful spot to endulge in wine, coffee, pastries and light eats. The tea was smooth. We had a mixed drink called the paper plane and it was deliciously made. The charcuterie board was fresh. Warm bread and beautiful smiles. Delightful restaurant by the train.

Allison S.

Yelp
The Reading Room is a cute and quaint vibe. It's conveniently located in Downtown Decatur and I like that there's parking nearby. I ordered a cortado with vanilla, as well as a croissant. The staff was friendly and the ambience was cool--not too loud or distracting. I'd visit again!

Juliana S.

Yelp
The atmosphere is very cute. While I don't see myself studying comfortably there for longer than an hour or two, I love the concept and I'm excited to visit during the wine bar time of day.

Shen M.

Yelp
The most beautiful coffee shop in Decatur! So much art and decor, if you just want to visit to see how beautiful it is you def should ! The customer service is amazing ! Everyone is very knowable on the menu the owners of the shop are so kind! The coffee the food amazing ! They also have a bar. The parking is either street parking or a near by parking deck. It gets very busy on the weekends so go early!

Nisha P.

Yelp
We found the reading room as we were looking for a place to grab drinks! It is soo cute! I love the cozy but cute vibe of this place! They have breakfast menus in am, but in pm turns into a wine/ cocktail bar! My partner got a whiskey and coke and I got two spicy Rita's! The bartender made the drinks so well and it was so beautifully displayed! They also had a live dj for a dance party! I told my friends and we're def coming back to try one of their spritz flights

Adam R.

Yelp
I was not a fan the one visit I made. It has a lot more sophisticated setting than other coffee spots nearby, which might be a good niche to fill. But it feels like you're paying a lot more for the "ambiance" than the actual food or drink. Everything we got was fine I guess? But I have to call out that I paid $12 for some brunch special called the "Waffle board" that was advertised as 4 waffles, but it was just the 4 quadrants of a waffle cut up, stacked, and each was called its own waffle. Pathetic. I could have gotten 4x the amount of food at Waffle House. Given that it's occupying the space that Java Monkey was once at, it's impossible not to compare the two. And I'd just say bring back Java Monkey. At least there I could use my laptop at night.

Jordan T.

Yelp
Came to the reading room on a Saturday night after getting a new book. The place was clean, eclectic and lit, just well enough for reading! I was met with smiling faces, service was great. I ordered a latte and cinnamon roll. Both were tasty. street parking is free after 6 PM so that worked in my favor. Will definitely be back to do more reading and explore the menu.

Cassie T.

Yelp
The ambiance is wonderful. The service is...unmotivated. Maybe we were barking up the wrong tree to stop in here for a 25 min break before birthday dinner revelries, but it does seem reasonable that one cocktail each for a party of four would be served well before 24 minutes into the encounter. Especially when we've reported that we have dinner reservations up the street in 25 mins. Again, love the space, and the staff is lovely. Whether service is reliably efficient when you visit appears to be luck of the draw.

Gordon S.

Yelp
Oh cool--looks like I'm the first review. Based on two visits in March 2024. Where the old Java Monkey was. Really nice interior with book theme (think a smaller Lucian Food and Wine). Good coffee/latte-based drinks, including things like Cubanos. My first visit had an over-diluted iced mocha, but that was probably an outlier. My next visit, everything was great (mocha and éclair). The éclair was absurdly good and fresh. The outside in nice weather is the best part, they also have an extension cord for laptop chargers out there. The Wifi doesn't extend outside--keep that in mind. Great view looking out onto where Leon's and Deer and the Dove are. I'll be coming here regularly to do my work. Hope it does well--As great as Decatur Square is, the area lacked a great coffee shop hangout (Opo is great, but not walking distance from there). Counter service, but they'll bring your order out to you if you want to secure a table outside. Nice service.

Sherrice A.

Yelp
Very chill vibe. The person at the counter was very helpful and pleasant. Its quiet during the day and was able to focus on my homework. The Ice Queen latte was delicious. I haven't tried any of the food yet but everything looks and smells great. Only problem is there are a lot of fruit flies. It kept trying to get in my drink but other than that, very

Chenise J.

Yelp
Came here to do remote work and I loved the atmosphere! Downtown Decatur is a wonderful place so I'm glad I was able to check this spot out!

Dionn K.

Yelp
Went in the morning because I saw it on Instagram, and I needed a place to work out of. This place is just vibes. They are really nice, and the atmosphere is cool. But the coffee is bitter, and not anything to write home about. And my biggest issue was that the wifi wasn't working, and when I asked about it, I was told from the barista that "It works as a queue, so you have to keep refreshing. But the music wouldn't work if the wifi wasn't working." Mmmkay. That's not what the network is saying. So after trying this multiple times, AND trying to use my own hot spot to no avail, I left. It might be better as a wine bar. It's definitely not a place I would go back to.

Laura S.

Yelp
Adorable coffee and pastry spot! My friend and I found this spot on Instagram and knew we needed to bring our books and check it out. The service was amazing and the owner cleared our plates in a timely manner. We stopped in on a Saturday mid morning. It was loud with chatter at this time but we were able to focus on our books. Can't wait to stop in during the week!

Christina S.

Yelp
I met up with a friend for coffee and conversation. Iced chai was perfect. It was crowded but we were able to find a spot at the bar. The ambiance is what makes this place special. I plan to go again. I enjoyed my experience.

Carole M.

Yelp
Downtown Decatur very small intimate cute coffee shop safe heaven for readers- book club nook!? They offer table service light lunch, brunch, or counter coffee and sweet Was perfect after brunch we stopped by for coffee and dessert Couple tables on covered patio. Inside one long banquette with duces tables that can be push together for larger group. Request if you need a party While we were there it was all 2s. The pastries and cakes offer variety From mango mousse to almond raspberry tart and chocolate croissant A large menu of coffee Loved it Will come with my friend again

Belle F.

Yelp
I gave this place two chances. The first time, this "coffee shop" didn't have decaf coffee. Forgivable. The second time, my mate and I were ready to work and drink... all the things. The waitress smugly informs us that she will not allow laptops in 15 minutes. Sure, there was a sign that communicated a time, but it was an hour after indicated on the sign, and others around us were still working on their laptops. It was the attitude though that was most offensive. She made a point to let us know that they were turning into a wine bar so we can't use our laptops and it was at her discretion. The irony is that we were going to order a bottle or two while we worked. Terrible use of discretion. So we went to Opo Coffee, which was a much better vibe.

Cameron C.

Yelp
This spot was a bit of a disappointment. We had a party of six for the evening service & ordered a few drinks and some cheeseboards. The drink menu had a nice variety of wines, and just a few beers. The boards are far overpriced for what you get; the bougie board feeds one person at most. I get this isn't an actual dinner, but they are the smallest boards I've ever seen, including at primarily beverage joints. The advertised foie gras turned out to be a tiny dollop of foie paté. Our friends waited quite a while for the veggie board which was truly just some sliced carrots & celery + hummus. They did bring out an extra loaf of bread which was appreciated. Lastly, the service was a bit frustrating. It's a relatively small space, but it was not busy- in any case, most tables were only ordering drinks. Our server left multiple times in the middle of taking orders while friends were trying to order. Our empty glasses & dishes sat there for pretty much the entire service- not something I typically moan about but after a while I realized we were just being ingored- we probably would've stayed longer & ordered more if there was room at the table. For our close out (tab split three ways) the server asked us to each list our items, pointing to each of us. This was... a little strange and uncomfortable. Overall the ambience was very pleasant and the drinks were nice- good glassware too. But the food needs to be revamped- to stick with cheeseboards it's probably smart to not lock down each component by listing it on the menu but instead rotate with seasonal & more sensible items. Every cheeseboard should be served with a brief explanation of what you're seeing on the board. Probably a nice spot for coffee/light lunch, but I would avoid if you're hungry whatsoever. I'd give it a second chance because I'm such a sucker for cheeseboards.

Shannan M.

Yelp
Super cute & esthetically pleasing little coffeehouse! A few things to note: They only have outlets on the right side where the sofas are, so if you need to charge up snag a seat over there. Also, I tried several times, but the wifi was never able to connect on my phone or laptop. Not sure if they were having a bad day or if this is a regular occurrence, but keep this in mind if you need to work. My last gripe has to do with downtown Decatur and not so much this coffeehouse. There is rarely any free parking and The Reading Room doesn't validate. Having to pay to frequent a restaurant or establishment has never sat right with me.