Introduction
If you’re searching for the perfect cup of coffee and a warm Irish welcome, Armagh delivers in spades. This historic city, known as Ireland’s ecclesiastical capital, offers a vibrant cafe scene that perfectly blends traditional charm with modern coffee culture. Whether you’re after a quick espresso or a leisurely afternoon with friends, these ten cafes represent the best coffee shops in Armagh and showcase why this city is a haven for coffee lovers.
1. Embers Coffee House & Grill Bar
The perfect destination for a relaxed, casual dining experience from cooked breakfast, lunch specials to evening occasions, Embers Coffee House and Grill Bar is rated 4.3 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #1 of 56 restaurants in Armagh. Located at 7 Market Street, this family-friendly establishment has built a reputation for excellent service and quality food. Serving the best Cappuccino, Latte and Expresso in Armagh, the extensive drinks menu also includes freshly prepared Smoothies as well as amazing Milkshakes, Frappes and Steamers. What sets Embers apart is its welcoming atmosphere and homemade specialty scones that customers consistently rave about.
2. The Bawn Pantry
The Bawn Pantry, rated 5 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #2 of 80 restaurants in Armagh. Located in Hamiltonsbawn, this contemporary coffee shop and bistro has earned a stellar reputation among locals and visitors alike. Coffee Shop/Bistro in Hamiltonsbawn - Serving the community with specialist coffee, The Bawn Pantry excels in homemade scones, cupcakes, and traybakes. The generous portions and friendly service make it worth the short journey from central Armagh, with ample parking available behind the establishment.
3. Bagel Bean
Bagel Bean, rated 4.0 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #12 of 54 restaurants in Armagh. This Lower English Street favorite specializes in fresh bagels made right in front of you. The BC Classic Melt is their signature dish that keeps customers coming back. Bagels, sandwiches, soups, smoothies and super cool coffee! Despite being busy during peak hours, the quick service and quality ingredients make the wait worthwhile. Their New Orleans and BC Classic bagels are particularly popular among both locals and visiting students.
4. The Craic’d Pot Coffee House
The Craic’d Pot Coffee House, rated 4.5 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #17 of 80 restaurants in Armagh. This bohemian-styled coffee house on Upper English Street offers a unique atmosphere with leather sofas and quirky decor. Late Opening Bohemian Styled Coffee House Coffee, Craic, Cake and Chat! Known for exceptional coffee and locally made bakery items, it’s a perfect spot to sink into comfortable seating and enjoy excellent wifi. The raspberry and white chocolate cake receives particular praise from visitors.
5. Rumour Espresso Bar
Located at 2 Market Street, Rumour Espresso Bar is ranked 4.4 within the Google grading system. This cozy establishment focuses on quality coffee made from Gold Star award-winning espresso blends. Rumour coffee is made from Gold Star award winning espresso blends and Rumour food is homemade, fresh and healthy. The varied menu caters to different appetites, whether you’re stopping by after a gym workout or just need a quick snack. Their nicely cooked sandwiches and americano receive consistent praise from customers.
6. 4C Coffee House and Kitchen
Located at 2 College Hill, Armagh Co.Armagh BT61 9DF, this cafe in Armagh offers a full coffee house experience with kitchen facilities for outside catering. While specific reviews weren’t available in my research, it’s mentioned among the notable establishments in the area and serves the local community with quality coffee and food options.
7. The Hole in the Wall
While primarily known as a historic pub, The Hole in the Wall offers visitors a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring, with its rustic charm and cozy interiors. Hidden in an unimposing alleyway at the heart of Armagh city, this hole in the wall was used as a gaol back in the day. The establishment has expanded to include food service alongside its renowned drink selection, making it an interesting armagh cafe option with historical significance.
8. Cafe Nero
Located at 60 Scotch Street, Armagh BT61 7DF, Café Nero is a premium award winning Italian coffee shop franchise, promising a warm and welcoming atmosphere, good food and great personal service. As part of the well-known chain, this location maintains the brand’s reputation for quality Italian-style coffee while providing the consistency that many coffee lovers appreciate when looking for a reliable cafe near me armagh.
9. The Market House (Alexanders of Markethill)
Located at Alexanders of Markethill, 3 Keady Street, Markethill, this is one of the leading furniture and gift shops in Northern Ireland, this 60-year-old family business has an upstairs restaurant with a reputation for exceptional home cooking. This unique combination of furniture store and restaurant offers a distinctive cafe experience with traditional home cooking that has been perfected over six decades.
10. The Gathering Rooms
Located at 4 Vicars Hill, Armagh BT61 7ED, The Gathering Rooms offers Breakfast, Brunches, Lunches, Tea and Coffee. The Gathering Rooms is a project made up of The Eating Rooms & The Print Room, providing training and work preparation for people with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) aged 16 years and up. This social enterprise combines excellent food and drink service with meaningful community impact, making every visit a contribution to a worthwhile cause.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best coffee shops in Armagh for students?
Bagel Bean is particularly popular with American students visiting Armagh, offering quick service, free wifi, and affordable prices. The The Craic’d Pot Coffee House also provides a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable seating perfect for studying, while Embers offers extensive opening hours suitable for student schedules.
Which Armagh cafes offer the best breakfast options?
Embers Coffee House serves Fully Cooked Breakfasts from opening, while The Bawn Pantry is renowned for its pancakes and bacon breakfast dishes. The Gathering Rooms specializes in Breakfast and Brunches, making these three excellent choices for morning meals.
Are there any dog-friendly cafes in Armagh?
The Bawn Pantry is dog friendly 🐶, making it a great choice for pet owners. Many of the cafes with outdoor seating also welcome well-behaved dogs, though it’s always best to call ahead to confirm their current pet policy. Kindly use our cafe filter features to find out more dog-friendly cafes in Armagh Filter Armagh Cafes by Pet-friendly
What’s the best cafe in Armagh for afternoon tea?
The Bawn Pantry offers afternoon tea experiences - Why not treat someone you love to a afternoon tea at The Bawn Pantry💘 🌸 Message or call to book! Perfect Blends Tearoom was also excellent for afternoon tea service, though it permanently closed in March 2025.
Which cafes in Armagh have the best homemade cakes and scones?
Embers is known for its Homemade specialty Scones and tempting array of scrumptious Tray-bakes, Waffles and Homemade Cakes. The Bawn Pantry also excels in homemade traybakes and desserts, while The Craic’d Pot Coffee House offers locally made bakery items that consistently receive excellent reviews.
Where can I find the best vegetarian options in Armagh cafes?
The Bawn Pantry offers plenty of choice particularly for vegetarians, and The Craic’d Pot Coffee House has a vegan range which is great for vegans. Most of the established cafes in Armagh now offer vegetarian alternatives, with many also providing vegan options to cater to diverse dietary requirements.Kindly use our cafe filter features to find out more dietary options cafes in Armagh Filter Armagh Cafes by Dietary Options
