At Quills Coffee in downtown Indianapolis, the room is as much a draw as the coffee. Diners repeatedly mention the ample seating, open layout and relaxed atmosphere; broad counters along the windows give solo coffee drinkers space to work. Outdoor seating offers another place to settle in.
The coffee comes from Quills’ Louisville roastery, where beans are roasted in 45-pound batches. Blacksmith, its signature espresso blend of coffees from Colombia, Nicaragua and Ethiopia, anchors the lattes, cappuccinos and cortados. The roaster describes notes of baker’s chocolate, blueberries and hazelnut. For a straightforward cup, Inkwell is the house blend served on drip throughout the day, with tasting notes of graham cracker, cooked cherries and vanilla.
Regulars point to the oat-milk lattes, friendly staff and help choosing beans and roasts. Espresso and pour-overs give the coffee-focused customer more than one route through the offerings, while the contemporary setting leaves room for lingering rather than just collecting a cup at the counter.
Quills is at 941 N Meridian Street. It opens Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. This is an inexpensive coffee stop, with breakfast service and takeout available; reservations are not accepted.