By Marc Silver, Compass Real Estate – Fishtown Resident & Local Guide
If you spend any time working remotely in Philadelphia, you already know that Fishtown has some of the city’s best cafés for getting things done. The neighborhood blends creative energy with great coffee, bright workspaces, and a steady flow of people doing the same thing you are — building businesses, writing, designing, studying, or just finding a change of scenery from the home office.
As a longtime Fishtown resident, I’ve seen the café scene explode over the years, and today it’s one of the best parts of living here. Whether you want a quiet corner, big windows, strong Wi-Fi, or a perfectly crafted latte, these are the spots locals swear by.
Here are the best coffee shops and cafés in Fishtown for remote workers — and why each one is worth adding to your weekly routine.
1. ReAnimator Coffee — Fishtown’s OG for Serious Coffee Lovers
ReAnimator helped define Fishtown’s coffee identity, and it still delivers some of the strongest and cleanest coffee profiles in the city. Their café has a simple, minimalist design that remote workers appreciate — no chaos, no noise, just good energy.
Why remote workers love it:
- Consistent, high-quality coffee
- A calm, stripped-down vibe ideal for writing or reading
- Great light, especially in the morning
- Smaller tables perfect for heads-down work
If you love high-end coffee and a peaceful workspace, this is your spot.
Best for: writing, morning productivity, short work bursts
2. Milkcrate Cafe — Vinyl, Vibes, and High-Octane Focus
Milkcrate Cafe is a Fishtown institution that perfectly blends a high-end record store with a serious coffee program. Located at the bustling corner of Girard and Marlborough, it offers an atmosphere that is equal parts retro-cool and energized, making it a standout destination for those who want their workspace to have a distinct personality.
Why remote workers love it:
- Unique Soundtrack: Work to the curated sounds of soul, jazz, and indie rock spinning on the turntables.
- Inspirational Decor: Surrounded by crates of vinyl and music memorabilia that spark creativity.
- Fuel for Thought: Known for their robust Le Colombe coffee and a menu of hearty, music-themed breakfast sandwiches.
- Bi-Level Layout: The downstairs area offers a bit more seclusion for those needing to dive deep into their tasks.
Milkcrate isn’t just a coffee shop; it’s a cultural hub. It’s the kind of place where you come for the caffeine but stay because the environment feels alive and authentically Philadelphia.
Best for: creative brainstorming, music lovers, quick laptop sessions, and fueled-up morning work.
3. Forin Café — Stylish, Creative, and Perfect for Remote Workers with Taste
Located in the historic Harbison Dairy building, Forin Café feels like a carefully curated lifestyle brand—in the best way. With its signature minimalist design, rotating artwork, and beautifully plated food, the space is inspiring without being overstated.
Why remote workers love it:
- Plenty of natural light
- Aesthetic interior that sparks creativity
- Healthy food options and great matcha
- Spacious tables and clean lines
It’s one of the most visually appealing work cafés in all of Philly — perfect if you need a refreshing environment.
Best for: design work, photo editing, big-planning days
4. La Colombe Coffee Workshop — Fishtown’s Coffee Landmark
La Colombe’s flagship location on Frankford Ave is practically a Fishtown landmark. The massive, industrial space combines the energy of a café with the vibe of a creative studio. There’s always movement, always conversation, and always excellent coffee.
Why remote workers love it:
- Lots of seating (a rarity in Philly cafés)
- Quick service, even during busy hours
- Great for collaboration or casual work sessions
- Energy that helps you get things done
This is where freelancers, entrepreneurs, musicians, creators, and locals all blend together.
Best for: collaborative work, meeting a friend, working with background energy
5. Cake & Joe — If Modern is your thing! Bright, and with some of The Best Treats in the Neighborhood
Cake & Joe isn’t just a café; it’s a creative studio disguised as a dessert shop. Their space is sleek, modern, and full of natural light — ideal for remote work sessions.
Why remote workers love it:
- Outlets at nearly every table
- A spacious, clean aesthetic that helps you focus
- Quiet enough for deep work
- Incredible pastries (their mousse cakes are famous)
It’s the kind of place where two hours disappear before you realize how productive you’ve been.
Best for: laptops, light meetings, creative work
Why Remote Workers Love Fishtown
Fishtown gives you the perfect balance: vibrant cafés, walkability, creative energy, and a sense of community that’s hard to replicate anywhere else in Philadelphia. Whether you’re living in a condo, a modern townhome, or a classic rowhouse, having this café ecosystem nearby is one of the biggest perks of the neighborhood.
Buying here means buying into a lifestyle — and these coffee shops are a major part of it.
Final Thoughts
Remote work is here to stay, and choosing the right neighborhood can make a massive difference in your daily routine. Fishtown delivers work-friendly cafés, local flavor, and the kind of community where people actually enjoy spending time outside their homes.
If you’re looking to buy or sell in Fishtown — or want guidance on choosing the right home for your remote-work lifestyle — I’m here to help.
Ready to explore Fishtown real estate? Contact Marc Silver today at https://silvertonehomes.com/.
Let’s find the home (and coffee shop routine) that fits your life.