"Every morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most." — Buddha.
Mornings have a certain magic—a quiet pause before the day begins, where possibilities feel endless. Something about these early hours invites a deeper connection with the world when the mind is open to inspiration. After my yoga session, I cherish my morning coffee. The scent of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the morning air awakens the body and the spirit, setting the tone for the day ahead.
While I could enjoy coffee at home, there’s something special about walking and finding a spot where you can savor the morning. I love sitting and watching the city wake up, reading a book, or letting the world go by.
One of my favorite morning spots is Kahwa Coffee. Established in 2006 by Sarah and Raphael Perrier in St. Petersburg, Kahwa Coffee has grown into Florida’s sizeable independent coffee roaster. The couple started with a vision to create a place that offered more than just coffee—where quality, community, and culture blend seamlessly. Their dedication to sourcing 100% premium Arabica beans from around the world and roasting them to perfection is evident in every cup. Kahwa’s reputation soared when world-renowned French chef Paul Bocuse chose their coffee for his restaurant at Epcot in 2008, marking a significant milestone in their journey.
The Sarasota location captures the essence of what makes Kahwa unique. It’s a cute café with yellow umbrellas outside that instantly lift my mood, super friendly staff, and artwork on the walls—all of which create a warm, inviting vibe. It may not be extravagant, but it’s a charming place with a welcoming atmosphere that feels just right.
There’s a natural connection between art and coffee in my morning routine. While coffee awakens the senses, art engages the mind, offering fresh perspectives and a sense of creativity. The pieces, frequently rotated and created by young local artists, bring a distinct bohemian flair to the space.
Convenience also plays a role—finding a spot that feels like a natural extension of a morning routine is key. Kahwa is centrally located, making it an easy stop on the way to work or during a leisurely morning stroll. The ambiance encourages you to linger, to take a moment to breathe, and to appreciate the simple beauty of the morning.
If you’re in downtown Sarasota and need a little morning pick-me-up, you should check out Kahwa Coffee. It’s not all about the coffee—though that’s pretty great, too—it’s about the vibe, the art, and just having an excellent spot to start your day off right. Grab a seat, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the moment.
Photos: iruphotos.com
I love this coffee shop the employees are nice they always make a lovely latte and they have a rewards program.
I wish they would play the jazzy, blues and more obscure cool playlists s they used to play... other than that, I do love the place.