Fuel Your Day with Bedford’s Best Coffee

Four Founders latte

“Coffee — the favorite drink of the civilized world,” said Thomas Jefferson.

The third President of the United States, and part-time Bedford County resident, had excellent taste. He had a fondness for beer and wine, too. But on a brisk morning in the Blue Ridge with the promise of a full day of hiking, disc golf or sightseeing ahead of you, there is no better way to start the day than a cup of coffee.

Bedford loves coffee in all its magnificent forms. There are locally-owned shops in every corner of the county, each with its own distinct personality and signature concoctions. It’s easy to find a delicious caffeine fix to start your day off right.

SML Coffee HouseIn the lake area, Smith Mountain Lake Coffee House has two locations — one at Bridgewater Plaza and the other inside Eastlake Community Church. The menu is the same, but fresh pastries are made daily at the main Bridgewater location and delivered to Eastlake. The scones, bagels and breakfast sandwiches are a tasty treat, but the star of the show is the coffee. They offer all the lattes and cappuccinos that you expect of a quality coffee house, as well as a couple of surprises. Try an Affogato – double shot espresso served over ice cream. Another favorite is the Sinless Éclair Mocha made with sugar free chocolate and skim milk.

First XI CoffeeDowntown Bedford has multiple options for a morning jolt, or even an after lunch boost. First XI Coffee is located on South Street, less than a half a block from E. Main Street. It’s pronounced First Eleven because of the founder’s love of soccer, which explains the clever drink names, like Goal Keeper Latte and Attacking Midfielder Breve. It’s not all sports-themed, though. They also offer seasonal drinks, smoothies and breakfast sandwiches. Insider tip: Try a hot or iced latte with flavored foam (like cherry or strawberry).

 

Bridge Street Cafe coffeeAlso, in downtown is Bridge Street Café, a favorite gathering spot for locals. This family-run business offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Almost everyone walks out feeling like they have just visited with old friends. The smart ones also leave with a delicious, homemade ham, egg and cheese breakfast sandwich.

 

LJ's Creations CafeOn the edge of downtown Bedford, in the historic railroad district, LJ’s Creations Cafe serves homemade treats in a cozy environment. True to their name, the creations are endless. On the coffee side, try a Chocoholic Mocha or Dads Special Latte (with salted caramel and chocolate syrup, topped with whipped cream). Breakfast creations include silver dollar pancakes, waffles, parfaits, croissants and more. You can even take home some amazing creations for a special occasion. Instagram-worthy cake pops and specialty cakes can be pre-ordered in person, or on their website.

 

Four Founders coffeeOver in the quaint town of Forest, Four Founders Coffee is providing morning and afternoon caffeine to the community — while supporting good causes. Its name comes from the four retired women who founded the business. Had it been around at the time, it’s exactly the kind of place that founding father Thomas Jefferson, who had a retreat home nearby, would have frequented. He’d be relaxing in a comfy chair, reading a book and sipping an Americano, of course.

 

On the Go:


  • Joe Beans Express Espresso is a popular locally-owned drive-thru option with locations in Bedford, Forest, Lynchburg and Appomattox.
  • One of America’s favorite national coffee brands, Dunkin, has a location in Bedford with a drive-thru and walk-in, where you can pick out your favorite donut (or a dozen).

 

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