03 October 2026 · Vol. XXXIV · № 12.328 Get the letterSearchSaved
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The Exchange & The Counter
Sip Lattes in This South Philly Auto Shop-Turned-Cool Cafe

Sip Lattes in This South Philly Auto Shop-Turned-Cool Cafe

Herman’s Coffee, a minimalist cafe taking home in a former auto body shop, is a nice destination for those who love a dark espresso or seasonal latte. But it’s also known for its market, which shares the cafe space with a few bench seats and sells artisanal ingredients for home cooking.

What to order

  • Seasonal specialties are the way to go here. In the fall, cookie butter and pumpkin lattes ($4.25 and up) are sweet without being saccharine.
  • The Pennsport Blend is its signature drip, and you can take the beans to-go; the 12-ounce bags go for $16.
  • The tinned fish are not to be missed, from Conservas Combados chargrilled octopus to Jose Gourmet smoked trout ($20 and up). The selection here is heralded by tinned fish aficionados.

The vibe

What else would you expect from a former car repair garage but the coolest people you know getting together on Sunday to make new friends? Grab a snack from any number of food trucks or grills that post up outside the cafe, like lamb tikka burritos from Reuby by chef Reuben Asaram or cocktails and chicken dishes by Peruvian Family Food Truck.

Insider tip

The outdoor seating is a great place to bring your dog, with enough room for nervous dogs to tuck into a corner and feel safe, a water bowl on request, and plenty of seating for you to sip your coffee in peace.

Key facts
  • Who: Herman’s Coffee
  • Money: $4.25 · $16. · $20

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