Review By J1 Reporter Isabella Hayes

If you’re searching for a cozy little café with a colorful, modern atmosphere where you can grab a quick breakfast and a delicious cup (or jar) of coffee, Amateur Coffee may be worth your while.

Located at 3913 Cuming Street in Omaha, Amateur Coffee is a locally-owned hole-in-the-wall coffee shop that boasts its menu being 100% vegan. The selection of beverages includes a nice range of hot or iced coffees and teas, with some items being part of a rotating seasonal menu. Coffee is roasted in-store, with various bags of grounds being available for purchase.

Drinks can be taken to go, with the caveat of a to-go jar costing $2 as part of a sustainable reusable glass jar program; however, you can bring the jar back next time for a $2 discount. They’re prepared with oat milk by default, though other plant-based milks are available by request.

Sweet tooth havers rejoice — the food menu mainly skews sweet with an array of baked goods such as donuts and brownies, though a few savory items are offered, including the breakfast sandwich (made with tofu “eggs” and vegan sausage and cheese) and the chick’n and waffle (the “chick’n” being fried mushroom). 

Café hours are from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. seven days a week. Beverage prices range from $2.50 for a plain black coffee to $9 for certain seasonal specials, and food prices range from $3.50 for a donut to $14 for the chick’n and waffle plate. 

Though seating is somewhat limited and cramped due to the small size of the shop, it’s the perfect spot for a convenient and quick breakfast — or you can just pop on in for a coffee to go. Service is great, with the baristas being friendly and ready to prepare your order at the counter.

I have been visiting Amateur Coffee since 2018, and during that time, I have tried a variety of menu options. When it comes to the café’s specialty drinks, nothing tops the brown sugar shaken espresso; it’s sweet and creamy with the perfect ratio of oat milk to espresso — plus, it’s prepared with real brown sugar, not just a flavored syrup. The difference is tangible and tasty.

In the realm of breakfast offerings, the waffles are to die for. They’re gluten-free and made to order, with topping options including chocolate chips, bananas, strawberries, and coconut whipped cream. I like mine with maple syrup, coconut whip and bananas; the texture is a delightful blend of crispy on the edges and fluffy on the inside.

Though I’m not the biggest fan of sweet and salty together, the waffles also pair well with the fried mushroom chick’n. I also enjoyed the savory blend of flavors in the breakfast sandwich — a dish that proves meat isn’t necessary for a yummy meal. 

Overall, Amateur Coffee is a lovely casual breakfast spot that I’d highly recommend to anyone who enjoys coffees and/or treats. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a new café to try, there’s something tasty for everyone.