Dear Diary Coffee

Dear Diary Coffee

⭐ 4.7/5 (465 reviews) 💰 $1–10 per person Cafe

📍 1212 Chicon St #103, Austin, Texas

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7/5.0 • 465 reviews
📍 Address
1212 Chicon St #103
Austin, Texas 78702
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$1–10 per person
🍽️ Category
Cafe

⏰ Opening Hours

Tuesday7 am–2 pm
Wednesday7 am–2 pm
Thursday7 am–2 pm
Friday7 am–2 pm
Saturday7 am–7 pm
Sunday7 am–7 pm
Monday7 am–2 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Stepping into Dear Diary Coffee is like entering a cozy, inviting sanctuary where the soul can find respite. The warm, earthy tones of the interior, accented by the soft glow of pendant lights and the gentle hum of conversation, create an atmosphere that is both trendy and comfortable. Whether you're seeking a quiet corner to work on your laptop or a lively space to catch up with friends, this LGBTQ+-owned, women-owned café in the heart of Austin welcomes all with open arms.

The menu at Dear Diary Coffee is a true celebration of plant-based delights. From their signature vegan coffee drinks, crafted with exceptional care, to the mouthwatering selection of comfort food favorites and organic dishes, every item on the menu is a testament to the owners' commitment to quality and sustainability. The tea selection is equally impressive, offering a diverse array of blends to soothe the senses. Those with a sweet tooth will delight in the irresistible vegan and vegetarian desserts, perfect for a midday indulgence or a post-meal treat.

The service at Dear Diary Coffee is attentive and friendly, with the staff going above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience for each and every patron. The casual, cozy ambiance and the generous portion sizes make this café a true value proposition, attracting a diverse crowd of family-friendly diners, LGBTQ+ individuals, and university students alike. Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite, a leisurely brunch, or an afternoon of work and relaxation, Dear Diary Coffee promises to leave you feeling nourished, rejuvenated, and connected to the vibrant community that calls this space home.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance Has wheelchair-accessible seating Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as LGBTQ+ owned Identifies as women-owned
Service options
On-site services available Offers takeaway Serves dine-in
Highlights
Serves great coffee Has great tea selection Has live performances
Popular for
Popular for breakfast Good for solo dining Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves coffee Serves comfort food Serves happy-hour drinks Serves organic dishes Sells prepared foods Quick bite Serves small plates Serves vegan dishes Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves breakfast Serves lunch Has catering Serves dessert Has seating No table service
Amenities
Has bar on site Has gender-neutral toilets Has toilet Has Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly LGBTQ+ friendly Transgender safe space Popular with university students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

As soon as you step into Dear Diary Coffee, you're enveloped in a cozy and inviting atmosphere that perfectly blends rustic charm and modern flair. The warm, earthy tones of the wooden furnishings and exposed brick walls create a welcoming ambiance, complemented by the soft, ambient lighting that casts a gentle glow throughout the space. The decor is a harmonious mix of industrial elements, such as metal fixtures and Edison-style bulbs, and homey touches like plush armchairs and eclectic artwork adorning the walls, all of which contribute to the cafe's trendy and laidback vibe.

The seating arrangements at Dear Diary Coffee cater to a variety of preferences, from intimate two-person tables perfect for cozy conversations to larger communal tables that encourage a sense of community. The cozy nooks and comfortable lounge areas offer the ideal setting for those seeking a peaceful retreat to work on their laptops or simply savor a delicious beverage. The overall atmosphere is one of relaxation and tranquility, making it a popular destination for both local regulars and visitors seeking a charming and inviting cafe experience.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free baked goods and alternative grains for meals.
  • Raw Food Choices - Fresh salads, smoothies, and snacks made with uncooked, whole ingredients.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free spreads, sauces, and desserts to accommodate those with allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan dishes like avocado toast and coconut-based lattes.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Enjoy a peaceful midday meal, with the cafe's serene ambiance and ample seating perfect for a solo work session or a relaxed catch-up with friends.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in the cafe's renowned vegan and vegetarian offerings, accompanied by a selection of specialty coffees and teas, while soaking in the lively, social atmosphere.
  • Friday evening - Experience the cafe's vibrant, LGBTQ+-friendly vibe, with live music or performances adding to the trendy, cozy environment, perfect for a casual but memorable night out.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Woman-owned and LGBTQ+-owned establishment, providing a welcoming and inclusive space for diverse patrons to enjoy high-quality vegan fare and specialty coffee drinks in a cozy, trendy setting.
  • Commitment to sustainable sourcing, with a focus on organic, locally-sourced ingredients and fair-trade coffee beans, ensuring a menu that is both ethical and delicious.
  • Diverse programming, including live music performances and community events, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere that goes beyond just a typical cafe experience.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Dear Diary Coffee is situated in the heart of Austin's vibrant East Side, a neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of indie shops, quirky art galleries, and lively music venues. The cafe is just a short walk from the iconic Texas State Capitol building and the bustling SoCo district, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors exploring the city's diverse cultural offerings.

The cafe attracts a diverse crowd, from young professionals and university students to health-conscious families and LGBTQ+ community members. With its cozy, welcoming atmosphere and commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, Dear Diary Coffee has become a beloved gathering place for the community, offering a safe and friendly space for everyone to enjoy delicious vegan fare and expertly-crafted beverages.

💬 Customer Reviews

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"I would come back SPECIFICALLY because of Callie. She was so friendly, easy to talk to - and funny! Thank you for the gr..."

— Customer #1
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"Oh my gosh this is the best compliment. Our team meeting is today. We'll be sure to share this! ❤️"

— Customer #2
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"Charming little vegan coffee shop with delicious brew. I had the Hunny Bunny which was a "honey" inspired latte made wit..."

— Customer #3
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"❤️ Yay! Glad you liked it"

— Customer #4
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"I love Dear Diary so much! The coffee and pastries are SO good, I love that everything is vegan, and it’s such a fun env..."

— Customer #5