4. Restaurants

Render Coffee

563 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA, 02118
  • (617) 262-4142
  • Store is closed

Render Coffee Menu

  • Breakfast Menu

Healthy Meal suggestions for Render Coffee

  • Breakfast Menu

Visit below restaurant in Boston for healthy meals suggestion.

Boston Common Coffee Co. ( 97 Salem St )
Einstein Bros Bagels ( 725 Commonwealth Ave )

Visit below restaurant in Boston for healthy meals suggestion.

Einstein Bros Bagels ( 725 Commonwealth Ave )

  • Esther C.

    Ah Renders coffee will always have a place in my heart. The chill and welcomed vibe that you get when you walk in is always warming. I came a couple of times in the winter, but yesterday was the first for summer and it was still amazing. I had an iced americano with a turkey wrap and it was amazing. The cashier suggested that I get a spicy aoli mayo so I did and yum! It was amazing! It added a kick to the crunch, creamy, meaty wrap! My miuth is watering just thinking about it. Also on top of all of this, there is bacon! Mmm I cannot wait to go and try other food they serve! To top it all off the iced americano was awesome. I loved the atmosphere to study and the drinks and food. Definitley will be going back!

    (5)

  • Emily G.

    They have a homemade hazelnut syrup for the hazelnut latte. It's amazing. Go there right now and get one. And enjoy. They also have fantastic pour-over coffee. Service can be slow, but it's to be expected with the hipster-y vibe. They play great music, sometimes jazz, sometimes other, but it's always a good volume and not too distracting. There's a fireplace but I've only been in summertime and don't know if it's functioning. I love studying in the window-surrounded room, but the two outlets on the back and right walls (looking at the window direction) do not work. Only the outlet on the left wall works. The patio is really nice, and there are lots of tables outside. People like to study here so it fills up and stays full most of the day on weekends I've noticed.

    (4)

  • Angela W.

    Hazelnut latte. All you need to know about this place at the moment (and I pray you are not allergic to nuts). I love to explore cafes and find smooth and rich tasting coffees. The hazelnut latte was brewed to perfection, infused with their homemade syrup that includes ground up fresh hazelnuts that simply enhances your coffee enjoyment. Wish this place was a bit bigger though because it's always packed. I always crave for this latte when I'm back in Boston. Would not miss out.

    (4)

  • Jose S.

    I'm glad to have found this place. This place is going to be my favourite spot in this streak in Boston, as it's not very far of my home. Located in almost the end of Columbus Ave, you can see from the outside inside of the bar, just going up the stairs. You'll find a high table and the bar when you enter in, every time I went there were almost no lane, as you order and they take what you have order to your table, that's awesome. The café is divided in two areas, one next to the building with some small windows, and one full of big windows, where it's very nice to work with your laptop or read. The power plugs of the outer zone don't work, so keep it in mind before sitting there with your laptop. Talking about the coffee and the food, they are very good in my opinion. The coffee tastes like coffee ( I like strong coffee ), and they have also other options as Chai, Hazelnut or tea, I really recommend them too. I also like having coffee in a ceramic glass or mug, so many cafés give you paper glass although you are taking the coffee there. Also they have some pastries, muffins and bagels, just in the bar. I tried bagels ( I love bagels ) with cream cheese and there awesome. The music is not very loud, and people used to be quiet.

    (5)

  • Serene V.

    I stopped here while in town due to the great reviews. It was an okay place, not a 4.5 star though for certain. I would probably check another place out next time.

    (3)

  • Aaron R.

    I love this place! Great coffee, great food, great space for studying. I used to go here all the time as a student, and I've been craving their breakfast sandwich for the 3 years between graduating and coming back for a visit. Seriously, get the breakfast sandwich.

    (5)

  • Jessica L.

    Last time I was here, it was freezing cold outside, and it was packed inside so I just got an espresso to go and a bag of some GREAT coffee beans (Sipacapa from Counter Culture). Today's weather was perfect, and I remembered Render had this outdoor patio thing so I figured I should check it out today and get some studying/reading done. After I ordered, I was lucky to get a seat in the awesome space in the back where you are INDOORS but all the walls, including the ceiling was glass, so I was basically in a room lit by the amazing sunlight with the addition of the cool air conditioning from being indoors. It's so rare to have a space like this, and I loved the fact that I was studying under the beautiful blue skies and natural light. (How awesome would it be to read a book while it's drizzling outside in this room?!) Food/drink: I got the double espresso and a bacon & cheese quiche, and both were splendid. The double espresso was pulled perfectly both times I ordered, and with a touch of brown sugar, brought out the bright and tangy flavors (not too much acidity, I love it!). The quiche was not as warm as I would have liked it, but I loved the single portion style of it, with the amazing crunchy crust that holds the whole thing together. Service: I think the fact that they bring out your drinks to you is a great touch to the shop. Everyone was very friendly and genuinely seemed to enjoy being there. I'm running out of coffee beans at home, and I will definitely be stopping by soon for some new beans here. Love it.

    (5)

  • Less H.

    They do more than a few things I love and do them oh so well. #1 Pour over. Mhhhhmmm. Apparently their espresso drinks are good too. #2. Guest beans. They source coffee from good roasters and serve them as well as sell bags of the beautiful beans. #3. Nooks and crannies for sitting, sipping, reading, studying, and writing. #4. Music is at juuust the right volume. My 12-ounce pour over arrived with room, damn my short term memory for forgetting to tell him no room. It was perfect. The bean I had selected was from their regular supplier, Counter Culture, and it featured a syrupy mouth feel and big bold flavors of chocolate and grape. Oh man, it was fantastic. I sat in the corner over near the bathroom and near one of the few electrical outlets. Which I didn't need. The table was the right size for sipping and chatting or sitting and studying. Whichever floats your boat. It was quiet enough while I was there, but it was the off hours, so who knows. My cuppa arrived hot and pretty quickly, though I was informed it would take "about 4 minutes." Anyway, Render was a nice stop on a perfect summer day and when I'm in the city, I'll have to stop in for more flavorful coffee to make my taste-buds super happy. If you like to test out neat microroasters, check out their guest bean. They were serving up Tandem Coffee Roasters which I just reviewed. Good stuff. Try it.

    (4)

  • Lindsey M.

    Had a cappuchino and an almond croissant here for breakfast. The croissant was moist and delicious! The coffee was smooth and had a nice finish. Service was fast and polite. There was ample seating and a nice deck outdoors. I would recommend it if your in the neighborhood.

    (5)

  • Marceline V.

    Love at first sip... My first time visiting this cafe but won't be my last. I ordered a hazelnut latte with almond milk and it was delicious! The hazelnut taste is strong but not overpowering. Also not super sweet. I will be visiting again soon!

    (4)

  • Regina W.

    I decided to come here after visiting Pavement Coffeehouse earlier this morning. Render Coffee is less than a 15 minute walk away from Pavement if you feel like jumping from coffeehouse to coffeehouse like I'm doing today. The atmosphere at Render Coffee is cute and consists of both an indoor area and outdoor patio. When I came on a Saturday at 1:30 p.m., it was very full inside of the shop (and also kind of muggy), so I decided to sit out on the patio and enjoy the cool breeze. Most of the people hanging out here were students on their laptops and I felt comfortable grabbing a table and getting on my laptop to do some work too. For my drink I ordered a hot apple cider for here, which was served to me in a blue ceramic mug and was super comforting to sip on while hanging out on the patio. I would order this beverage again if I came back here. I would definitely come to Render Coffee again if I was looking for a place with free Wi-Fi to work for a few hours.

    (4)

  • Izzy Z.

    Love this place! The service is great, everyone is very nice. Great great great coffee. The hazelnut latte was absolutely amazing. Pretty sure there's ground up hazelnuts in their syrup since they make the syrup themselves. The mocha is made with taza chocolate and really brings out the espresso/coffee taste. The sandwiches are made fresh and the iffy bread is a very nice touch-just the right amount of crunch on the outside and soft on the inside. I can't say enough great things about this place! Also, there's a great selection of mem tea for all the tea drinkers out there!

    (5)

  • Brenda H.

    Like all my great find, I found Render through yelp! So glad I did, because I'd probably walk past this place completely unnoticed. I've never really stayed long enough to bask in the environment, but I can easily say that the baristas here take their coffee craft to a whole new level. They are seriously, serious about their coffee. They weigh...not measure, but weigh the amount of water they pour into their pour over. WHO DOES THAT!?!?! Talk about consistency! And they're humorous and friendly too! And....they make the most amazing Hazelnut lattes ever, its a little pricy, comes in one size, but it's decorated with beautiful art, doesn't taste artificial and I actually think (never bothered to ask) they grate fresh hazelnut into each cup. Tastebuds blown! Perfect texture, milk to espresso ratio and temperature. I can drink that stuff all day!

    (5)

  • Jason F.

    Wonderful hazelnut latte. Crappy hazelnut latte. Depends on who makes it. There's no quality control at any of these places!

    (3)

  • Ellie W.

    I tried their hazelnut latte and let me tell you - this is the freshest you can get and strong - I was a jitterbug afterwards and you can taste ever part of the hazelnut - a bit nutty if you ask me but it's definitely one of their popular items. Latte art is very on point here - nice little cafe for a drink and small eats to catch up with friends or do some work. Also next door is the most cutest gift shop ever - Luke Adams gifting - where you can find gifts for all sorts!

    (5)

  • Nick G.

    Truly thoughtful coffee. Each drink has been crafted to the right size, creaminess, and proportions. Excellent service and great wraps!

    (5)

  • Mackenzie A.

    I visited this coffee shop during my trip to Boston, and I absolutely loved it! Aside from all of the great aspects of the shop itself, our warm beverages helped up briefly escape from the cold. This is the most adorable coffee shop I have ever been to. In the back of the shop, there is a room that has a domed glass roof. We were lucky to get a table in here since seating is pretty sparse. There is an outdoor patio too, but it was closed off for the winter due to snow. However, if I ever come back during the spring or summer, I would LOVE to sit out there. It is so beautiful surrounded by brick buildings. The coffee itself was great as well. I'm not much of a coffee connoisseur, but I could tell that it was great quality. I ordered a cafe latte, but they a very large menu to choose from. Great atmosphere, great coffee. I'll definitely be back next time I'm in Boston!

    (5)

  • D P.

    I love when this place has a guest roaster. The Gracenote Alpha is a favorite. They now have Tandem, but I am hoping that they can introduce me to a roaster that has something that I have not tried. I honestly miss the Gracenote, but I will keep going back because almost everyone at this location has a deep love and understanding of what makes good beans into great coffee.

    (5)

  • Dylan N.

    Ohh yes. Killer coffee joint in Boston. I'm not from the area, but stumbled upon this place as I was walking around town. Needed an afternoon pick-me-up, ordered a double shot Ethiopian espresso. Perfect temperature, nice and crispy flavor with a mellow, smooth after taste - incredible complexity and a beautiful dark golden-brown texture. Great consistency and perfect blend of bitter and sour tones. Awesome vibe, enjoyed the cup in a pleasant room in the back of the restaurant. By the way, it was just over $3.00 with tax for the double shot. Definitely will be returning whenever I'm in Boston.

    (5)

  • Kara S.

    The hazelnut latte lives up to the reviews and raves. The breakfast sandwiches are tasty and the atmosphere and staff are great.

    (5)

  • Carol L.

    My favorite coffee shop from my most recent trip to Boston. It blends in with the surrounding neighborhood so be on the lookout for it. When I came by in the late afternoon it wasn't too crowded. I found a seat easily and near an outlet as well. So those who say they don't have them you're just looking carefully enough. Anyhow, the inside has a homey feeling but the seats aren't super comfy (hint: they don't want you staying that long). Friendly service and my CORTADO was excellent.

    (5)

  • michael s.

    A buzz and flavor satisfying hazelnut latte...classical jazz in the background, beans roasting...an aromatic start to the morning

    (5)

  • Tiffany C.

    Great ambiance and place to meet for an afternoon chat/lunch. Ordered a cappuccino but it wasn't as sweet as I would have liked but it was still good. Hazelnut latte ($4.50) Cappuccino ($3.50) and comes in smaller cup

    (4)

  • Sarah V. M.

    Yes, yes, I love to test what's all the rage. What did I find?: -long lines -sold out coffee bean roasts -delayed delivery -tepid latte (cute art though) -not a single seat or perch in the house -hovering for ages to get someone to give up their seat -quiche that looks artisanal but was also like-warm, bland and not so satisfying. When I looked around all the other tables had breakfast sandwiches that looked ahmazing. So if I were to do it all again, here's how I would score: order an extra hot latte and a breakfast sandwich - to go, and shop the connected gift store while I waited for perfection to be produced.

    (3)

  • Paloma M.

    One of the best coffee shops in Boston, hands down! Lattes, regular black coffee, I've tried them all and everything is amazing! They also have the most delicious goat cheese quiche! In the rear there's also a cozy area to sit, perfect for summer days!

    (5)

  • Tara D.

    An enjoyable sipping experience. Fair selection of coffee and knowledgable employees. Airy floor plan, good space and a beautiful back room, light wooden beams with glass paneling - open and bright. If you're looking to curl up with a book like I was this isn't the spot - but for a cup of coffee and a well constructed sandwich on a good bagel or nice bread, this is a good and fine spot. Attractive employees - always a plus Could use couches for sure.

    (3)

  • Janet H.

    My new study spot! If you're looking for the hipster cafe, look no further. This place serves all sorts of coffee -- lattes, espresso, pour overs, etc. My fav is the pour-over and they have a rotating special for $3 everyday. The good: + good, delicious coffee! + friendly staff + nice ambiance + fresh sandwiches/paninis The bad: - no outlets (bring your laptops charged) - not enough seating... always crowded... imagine the winter, when you can't even sit in their patio! - the room in the back gets dim as the sun sets. - no discounts for bringing your own tumbler! boo.

    (4)

  • Tiffany B.

    Render is absolutely the best coffee in South End. Skip Dunkin & just walk a little further to Render because you're not going to find a coffee shop within walking distance that is going to give you more bang for your buck. Customer service is always pleasant here. Always greeted with smiles & helpful information. If it's your first time, tell them & ask them for assistance. If the line is long, understand that they might not be able to be so accommodating, but they'll definitely try their best. It's about $6.50 for one quiche, which is really overpriced considering the overhead cost to make a quiche isn't very high, but they're delicious. The goat cheese quiche is superb: flaky, savory, bold in flavors. Just absolutely a must try if you love quiche. Not in any way original of course, but still delicious. Their sticky bun is also really excellent. It looks like it's diabetes in a cute round shape & probably is, but doesn't taste it. Not a huge fan of their red chili chai latte (tea lacks flavor), but it's got a fun kick to it. Their iced coffee = best I've had in Boston. Flavors are so crisp, bold, & fresh, you're kind of feeling awed by how you've been having bad coffee a good chunk of your life. Dirty chai latte is a personal favorite of mine though. Their teas are otherwise great (loose leaf up in here!) for tea lattes. I'm obsessed. Also, there's an adorable patio in the back. Wifi offered. 10/10 would recommend.

    (5)

  • Elizabeth H.

    I love checking out new coffee places. Having had plans to meet up and chat with a friend, he suggested Render Coffee. Upon walking in, it appeared to be small and bare; however, there was a back area with outdoor seating! The espresso that was selected for me was just right and not bitter at all! It was definitely a great find. I will definitely be coming back for some iced coffee later during the summer if it ever gets "really" warm.

    (4)

  • Mindy T.

    Both egg sandwiches and latte were great! I highly recommend rosemary frittata with spinach. A nice place to begin your day!

    (5)

  • JR C.

    My memory here is of sitting in the corner for a couple hours on the Coachella Ticket Website. It was frustrating, but atleast I had an awesome spot to relax in. Seats were namely uncomfortable from cushionless chairs inside to wooden patio chairs outside. Your butt is not priority here but atleast looking up at the greenhouse ceiling, those tiny sporatic raindrops provided a therapeutic deterrent as they tap tap tapped. As with most businesses in Boston, Render is a business built right into a Boston housing complex. Nothing space age or revolutionary here, but it's clean and you'll likely not be without a seat. The patio and the greenhouse in the back would be the highlight here since it provides are very open feeling. Power plugs are not as easily accessible for those needing power, but then again you can get lucky and most people here seem to be nice. -=-Latte-=- Milk milk and lots of milk. It was not a particularly strong coffee, but it was frothy regardless.

    (4)

  • Cameron C.

    I stopped back in to try a pour over and went with a Kenyan they had as a guest roast. The cup was smooth, low in acid, with notes of dried berry, primarily. I gave some to a less coffee savvy friend of mine and he told me it was some of the best he's ever had, to which I would agree. Most of the time I don't bother even going to coffee shops, as I work at one myself and I've been told I'm too picky with coffee. Usually(generally speaking), I'm served something I could make better myself, but once I saw the strada tucked neatly behind the counter with a third grinder running for what I assume was a single origin espresso option, I could tell that render knew their stuff. Thoroughly sold, I will be back.

    (5)

  • Ibis V.

    No complaints! The café isn't too pretentious nor worn down, great ambiance to have meetings, work, read, etc. I had their chai latte and goat cheese quiche, both were excellent! A bit on the pricey side though.

    (5)

  • Vuthan K.

    Hazelnut latte, yum yum!

    (4)

  • Damien W.

    There coffee is AMAZING! Pricey, but really well done. What ever you do, don't spoil the drip coffee with any cream or sugar. It's great the way they brew it. If you want to add any flavor decoratives, I suggest getting a cappuccino. They taste great and they nicely top it off with a trendy coffee foam heart art. If you're hungry, don't skimp out on just delicious pastry. Get something with substance. Get one of their amazing panini sandwiches. By far, one of my favorites, is their Rosemary Potato Bacon on Focaccia Panini. Yum! If you're in no rush (FYI...they don't rush anything!) hang out and they'll bring you your food and drink. The ambiance is nice and intimate. The patio is great during the summer months, but that seems to be the only spot in the store to get cell phone reception. Otherwise, you should get a better cell phone provider...Verizon? The prices are on the high side of what you'd think a coffee bar would be, but you will find out that their quality easily can justify their price marks. However, they may be able drive costs down by expanding their branding and get their loyal customers to promote their store by selling more Render Café paraphernalia. They will service you promptly and nicely. However, they do tend to have a "hipster" vibe. What does that mean? Well, they're polite, but not highly energetic as some of the other commercial coffee houses. While I find that most New Englanders and Europeans tend to like the subdued customer service energy, there may be some customers who are used to the high bubbly greet you at the door service, that most of middle America & suburbia have grown accustomed to. This is not that place. With that in mind, they make great quality products and provide service that accentuates those products. Great place! I'm sold. You will be, too.

    (5)

  • Roland L.

    If you're looking for specialty coffee in Boston, Render Coffee is a viable option serving up cups of Counter Culture & MADCAP. Located on the second floor of what appears to be a mixed-use property, Render Coffee offers ample indoor seating fully equipped with outlets for plugging in your laptop, as well as a comfortable alfresco patio located in the rear of the property. Their friendly barista seemed knowledgable about their products. I ultimately settled upon a Cappuccino. Cappuccino - Counter Culture 'Las Milpas' ($3.50): 3/5 Being that I solely drink specialty coffee, I found Render's prices to be fair, if not up to $.50 less than what I am used to spending for similar drinks back home in Los Angeles. Excited to consume my Counter Culture espresso beverage, I took a few sips and then determined that the espresso had been over extracted. I did not care much for it's burnt flavor but cared less for the sour finish. Regrettably, I should have asked the barista to remake my capp or the very least, check his parameters to see if he needed to dial in his shot again. I'm sure the coffee program here at Render is solid but maybe I happened to experience them on an off day. I'll have to give them another shot next time I visit Boston. FYI, parking can be a little confusing and challenging. We parked right in front of Render and carefully read the ambiguous posted signs which read that parking was permitted only to be told that we might get a ticket...hmmmm

    (3)

  • Tamara W.

    Um, yeah, pretty much the best new coffee place in South End. They were friendly, quick, have wireless, and outdoor seating. Great location near work out places + the 1 bus. Really had a great experience and will totally be back! A+ go go go!

    (5)

  • Cynthia G.

    It is amazing place to have a lunch with friends. Last time I had a sandwich and a cappuccino and both were rather good. I like the atmosphere here, it's like at home: nice smell and friendly people around you.

    (5)

  • Nicolay S.

    Hands-down the best - and only - respectable coffee joint in all of South End. These guys know how to pull a good shot, do a pour-over, and crack a joke or two. The vibe is hipsterish but not douchey, homey but not cloyingly so, and they even have a patio in the back for when the weather is nice. Try one of their cortados, and break all rules by adding some hazelnut paste in it. Live on the edge... No one will know. OK, so the only annoying part is that they let people treat the tables as their home office. Bitch, if you're gonna hug this table for 8 hours straight, you better be on your 8th cup of coffee. In which case, you should warn the staff not to call the ambulance too soon. That's all I'm sayin'...

    (5)

  • Pinky C.

    This coffee place reminded me of good ol' New York. Them hipsters are everywhere! Them serving counter culture was a big plus in my book. The place is more lengthy rather than wide, so there are more seats in the back. Their quiches were delicious too though! A lot of people were on their computers and doing work in this place, while my party was chatting up away. Staff members were friendly too..

    (4)

  • Chloe B.

    Render Coffee is certainly one of the best coffee shops in the area if what you're looking for is truly good coffee. Counter Culture is great, and the baristas know what they're doing. They make a mean cortado at the right temperature and it's also a welcome departure decor-wise from every other "cool coffee shop." Cons here are that it's often jam-packed and impossible to find a table, but when you can grab a seat (especially when it's nice enough to hit the deck) it's a joy to hang here. Definitely a must if you're looking for lattes in the South End.

    (4)

  • Summer A.

    I wish I could of stole this coffee shop and took it back home with me. It was so nice, quiet and I wrote a paper here that I got a perfect grade on. The coffee was very nice! The people who work here are sooo helpful and the atmosphere is just so pleasant . You Boston folks are very lucky to have this coffee shop, take advantage of it!

    (5)

  • Heather G.

    Best. Egg. Sandwich. In. Town. Period. And coffee too, can't forget the awesome coffee. Seriously, Rosemary Frittata, bacon, egg, tomato, chedder on everything bagel. Such a great place...

    (5)

  • Michael R.

    I really liked the atmosphere, not to crowded, and GREAT costumer service. While I was there, they had an open mic session which was really nice; it wasn't excessively loud.

    (5)

  • Ces A.

    I love this place. Their lattes are great. I love their sandwiches and the lock with cream cheese and bagel is really good.

    (5)

  • Elleen P.

    I decided to come here one windy, cold, snowy morning to get my work done... and it was so crowded that I ended up not getting any work done. I still got to have a nice breakfast (their bagels are awesome!!) and their coffee was on point. The place itself is really small, so don't expect to come here and get a lot of work done because you likely won't be able to find a table. Baristas are super kind and friendly, and the whole environment is just really cozy, especially when the snow is hitting hard outside.

    (4)

  • Mimi T.

    Coffee is really great. Food is good too, but they are really slow and disorganized. Also, if you spend more then 5 minutes in there you will leave drenched in the smell of cooked food like bacon, as well as coffee.

    (3)

  • mike m.

    I love coffee. I am not a snob but I love it....and I hate bad coffee. I've never had bad coffee here. Lattes...pourovers....quick coffee....Americano....Mocha.....all good. I like the room too and the owner Chris is very nice. Local owned. Solid management. Run here...don't walk.

    (5)

  • Tan G.

    Quaint coffee shop that cares about their brew. On the menu faves include hazelnut and chai lattes. Lots of demand for pour overs. They even have a kid size cocoa for their little customers. Staff have a hipster vibe and are happy to brew! Cute space in the back got meet ups or laptop catch up.

    (5)

  • Jamie P.

    Best coffee in Boston. Best cappuccino, best iced coffee (with growlers to take home), great service.

    (5)

  • Christina H.

    Friendly baristas and solid cup of cappuccino adorned with latte art - small, cute space. I didn't get a seat at first and I wasn't even mad. Sip that.

    (5)

  • Sam M.

    They make a pretty good cappuccino, but it was nothing special. I had a nice and moist blueberry muffin, but again, it was nothing special. The scenery is pleasant and there is a nice sunroom to work in. Overall, a good place to go.

    (3)

  • David S.

    Delicious pour-over cup of coffee. polite and friendly staff and the ideal place near mass ave side of the South End. I'll keep coming back until further notice.

    (5)

  • Mara M.

    Coffee is strong and ethically sourced, a wonderful growing phenomenon in Boston! There is a decent amount of seating but due to the popularity I usually have to stake out a seat. Breakfast sandwiches are good, I'm partial to the Rosemary potato fritatta. While I love Iggy's for most bread-like substances, their bagels don't cut it when you're used to New York. Still, a good place to grab a Sunday breakfast. I hope you aren't in a rush though! Due to pour over coffees and the business it usually takes a bit to get the food out.

    (4)

  • Jasmine M.

    I really love this place. The coffee is excellent, the skim lattes are even better. I love that they have open windows and outdoor seating. The food is fine, nothing amazing.

    (5)

  • Christine J.

    Great little cafe! This cafe in the south end makes me want to move there! The best spot to people watch.. it's esp fun in South End bc of the fashionable gay community. My waiters at the cafe were so fabulous with their nails painted, i loved it so much! so much personality and fun there. even the bathroom is clean and unique looking. ha Can't wait to go back!

    (5)

  • Chris B.

    Best breakfast sandwich in the city. It nails the details: perfectly toasted bagel (get sesame), lots of extra crispy bacon, and the rosemary frittata eggs (get them) are well flavored and don't fall apart. Every time I have one I have a debate having another. They're that good. Pour over coffee is also great -- what you'd expect from a pour over coffee shop. Overall it's pricey but worth it.

    (5)

  • Cristina R.

    On a Saturday afternoon, Render was very quiet. Maybe even too quiet. Don't get me wrong. It was pretty crowded, but for some reason everyone was reading or writing or studying. The space is small but nice since it has a section in the back with big windows as well as a back patio which was pleasant on the warm day we went. However, considering how quiet it was when we arrived, I felt like all the other customers were eavesdropping on our conversation or wished that we'd just shut up. I'm not a big coffee drinker, so I ordered the chai latte. It was fine, not overly sweet, but a bit watery and bland for my taste (I like it spicy!). Render would be an ideal study spot if you find that you can no longer stand the sight of your bedroom or library and need some natural light to wake you up and get you through the last few pages of that brutal essay. A place to lounge and gossip about boys? Not so much.

    (3)

  • Damien S.

    I may need to appreciate the bean to get the full brunt force of Render's caffeinated armory: pour over coffees, actual hazelnut lattes (read: no syrups), delicately foamed chai lattes with... Wait, I CAN speak to the latter! Their version is soft, presenting a faint, vanilla sweetness instead of a fragrant, spicy kick, and how they get that thick foam from soy milk is beyond me. Sipped in their back room atrium, you'll find yourself waist-deep in meditative oneness. It's almost too peaceful. I bet they rent out table pillows. Pair its inherent urban zen with chipster service (yes, that's "chipper hipster"), incredible quiches and their quickly depleted stash of Iggy's baked goods, and you've got the Four Noble Truths behind your morning fix. Tibetan robes pocket-free? Leave your wallet at home - they take LevelUp!

    (4)

  • Alexandra M.

    I got the goats cheese quiche which was stuffed with spinach and I love spinach but took quite a while to heat up. My friends sandwich also took a long time. I guess don't go here if you're in a rush or starving. The quiche was a little bland too , maybe from reheating. I got a bagel to go at the end and that took a while as well, but the hummus on it was great. Not enough for me!

    (3)

  • Leah K.

    I went to render coffee last night with my friend, and it was the perfect location for a girls' date! We both ordered latte's (she vanilla and mine hazelnut). I had a lemon poppyseed macaron and she had a chocolate chip cookie. I think we were both very happy with everything we ordered. The hazelnut doesn't have a strong hazelnut taste, so if you're curious, please try! It was a little gritty from the ground nuts, but I liked that. There was a good amount of seating, and the staff was very cordial and didn't even kick us out (we looked at our phones and realized it was just past 8). I can't wait to go back and try some more of their offerings!

    (5)

  • Hunter M.

    I really loved this place. No frills, quality coffee. Delicious lox bagel. The perfect ingredients to get my day off to a good start.

    (5)

  • Tina V.

    Cute little coffee shop with one of the best cappuccinos I have ever had, they do know how to brew their coffees! Their chai latte is just average, I'd stick with the cappuccino (I had 3 because they were that good) here if you're a coffee lover. I had a sticky bun which was more crunchy than sticky but that could also be the result of the timing (around 3-4 pm), it was okay. Service is great. Would definitely recommend this to others for a good cup of coffee.

    (4)

  • Matthew S.

    It was $3.45 for mediocre apple cider. The server waited nearly 10 seconds before greeting me when I went to the counter to order despite not looking busy. And the floor was dirty. I have no idea why people like this place.

    (2)

  • George L.

    Awesome coffee and delicious breakfast sandwiches and quiches, only drawback is that it's a bit pricey. My favorite is the bacon and vermont cheddar quiche. It's a great coffee shop to get work done, as there's wifi and outlets, though it can get crowded sometimes. There's outdoor seating in the back when the weather's nice.

    (4)

  • Mark A.

    Pros -proper espresso machine that allows baristas to manually control the bars of pressure throughout the pull. -pour over coffee, for those who don't mind the wait -nice seating area, in door and out. Cons -no 8 ounce cups for Americano coffee. 12 ounce is way too much water. -0.5 stars -selection of beans for espresso was limited to one. Should have two choices at all times. -0.5 stars Otherwise great. Definitely in my top 5, under Barrington, three little figs and cafe fixe.

    (4)

  • Mr. O.

    A great place to chat and connect with friends. Now Mr. O usually does not review coffee shops and reserves his judgmental barbs for the high end restaurants, this place is worthy of an exception! The service is great and the food and drinks are worthy of a visit. Downside - like Barnes and Nobles, the place can have a college bookstore atmosphere with people camping out all day and monopolizing the tables. That really irks me - people substituting coffee shops for libraries! Regardless of Gen X's obsession with sprawling their laptops and iPhones all over the place, it is worth the trip to South End! Mr. O out!

    (4)

  • Bret C.

    Render is awesome - and I don't even drink coffee! They have great baked goods, a unique spot (+ atrium in the back) and it's right on the edge of the South End and Back Bay. Solid spot weekdays or weekends. LevelUp offers a bonus here which is a good incentive to stop by as well.

    (4)

  • Rina L.

    Great coffee and food (cappuccino, sandwich). I love the little greenhouse-ish room in the back; it was raining when I went which contributed nicely to the pleasantly quiet atmosphere.

    (4)

  • Samuel K.

    Hands down the best coffee, quiche and service in Boston, bar none. Render is small, cozy and has a nice ambiance

    (5)

  • Leesha Z.

    This place is perfect. Plenty of seating inside along the windows. Friendly, fast service. I got a hot vanilla latte and it met all my expectations. Parking is a little bit of a pain depending on what time you go. If i resided in the south end, this would be my go to coffee shop!

    (4)

  • Dr. Tyler C.

    Great coffee at this little Back Bay/South End coffee shoppe. The drip coffee is amazing along with the hazelnut coffee latte. I love the nice little atmosphere. I would rate it much higher if the coffeehouse would implement rules on people camping out or sitting at computers for hours. We waited a considerable amount of time to get the few people drinking anything to leave as majority of the tables were occupied by people using the wifi and shopping online. During peak times it's best to limit that activity. Otherwise this is a great coffee house to try.

    (3)

  • Greg S.

    Yes, I live down the Street. Yes, I like Coffee. Yes, I am patient. Yes, I think coffee should be cheap. Ok, that last one is just in general, but in this neighborhood you have to expect everything to be a bit skewed. I understand the concept they are going for, but seriously people, slow drip coffee is just torture. So if you use coffee, like me, to get a kick start quickly, than this place is not for you. Expect to wait for everything except iced coffee, the house special, and unground coffee beans. I say 'it's okay' not because the coffee is bad, but because it is pure torture to go about getting it there.

    (3)

  • Benjamin S.

    I feel bad that I didn't write this review earlier. Render makes the best espresso in Boston. Period. More than that, the staff is ALWAYS friendly. To make it clear how much I like this place, I live deep in Dorchester, and I ride my bike the 4 1/2 miles to get here, sit down for a while, do some work, and then ride back to Dorchester to my job at UMass. I'm a serious snob for espresso, and they know their coffee VERY well--to the point that they dial in the espresso several times a day, and are very concerned about whether I think it's good or not. If you like good coffee and a nice place to sit down, this is the place to go.

    (5)

  • Caitlin B.

    Terrible service...the staff walked around the place five times, not knowing whose order was whose. The coffee was okay, but I expected better. The staff were unfriendly and seemed uninterested in their customers.

    (1)

  • Alex H.

    I love their lattes. That's about it. There were all out of pastries which is kind of the highlight of going to a good cafe. Small tables but enough space to do work. Also, no air conditioning.

    (3)

  • Ben G.

    Best coffee in Boston. Try their cortado

    (5)

  • Jiyea C.

    I think I just found a place that ousts Thinking Cup as my favorite outside-my-neighborhood (between Central and Porter Squares on the T) cafe! Here are a few reasons why. The hazelnut latte here trumps the one at Thinking Cup. I don't know what kind of coffee beans Render Coffee uses, but the latte is creamier and does not have the graininess that I mentioned in my first review of Thinking Cup (my review was updated so you might not see it if you're using Yelp Mobile) I had the goat cheese quiche with my latte and it was delicious! Nice cheesy flavor and perfectly warmed up. The staff actually bring the food to you! My latte was brought to my table around 5 minutes after ordering, my quiche another 5 minutes after that. Seating is much cuter than Thinking Cup! There's an atrium area with floor to ceiling windows, and a few outdoor tables in the back. WIFI! Outlets! And the windows/lighting provide for a more work-conducive atmosphere. I always thought that Thinking Cup's lighting was too moody for much studying, though great for a date or a catch up session. They take LevelUp! Other highlights: lots of food options, pour over coffee...though I can't comment on these. Very T-accessible! Just a block from the Orange line at Mass Ave station, a few blocks from Green Line Symphony Station. Or you could just take the 1 bus from Cambridge, it's just a block off Mass Ave.

    (5)

  • Susanna L.

    This is my FAVORITE coffee shop in Boston! Their sandwiches are really amazing. Go for the BTL if you want something really flavorful, or their breakfast sandwich if you want something hearty eggy and delicious. My other go-tos are their scones and their lattes. Their lattes are very milky, and not too sweet, but that's how I like mine. Everything made here is just very professional and old-school... they're not afraid to go the extra mile to make their coffee and food really special. It's usually pretty hard to find seating because people tend to linger, but the space is really cute and inviting. I just wish I lived closer to this place!

    (5)

  • Nicole C.

    Yummy almond-milk latte! Every time I'm anywhere close to Render, I pop in for a latte. I think they put crack in them. But, the people who there don't do crack because they are ultra nice and friendly.

    (5)

  • Jackie K.

    When I first tried render I decided I didn't like it bc I was upset they only had one size latte BUT I have actually decided they have the best cold brew in all of boston that I have tried and those are high stakes. They also have kombuchu and healthy things to eat which makes me happy.

    (5)

  • Doris D.

    It's a nice cool coffee shop in the neighborhood of South End. First time had hazelnut latte and I like it very much. Like Thinking Cup, this place is small and limited seating with all walks of life either working or studying and they linger around for a long time with free wifi. I don't know why they don't have flat white in most of the artisan coffee shops in Boston though.

    (4)

  • Brian S.

    I tried this place on a whim, mostly based on other Yelp reviews. Here's what I found: Pros: 1) Great ambiance...quiet, homey, nice tables, free wifi, clean bathroom. 2) Great location, very close to the T. 3) Really, really good breakfast sandwich. 4) Very nice staff. 5) A few books for patrons to read, including one about the coffee shops of NYC. Cons: 1) Drip coffee is just so/so. I really wanted to like it, but even though it was from Central America (I almost always love coffee from Central America), something was off. Perhaps roasted too long? I'm not sure. 2) Espresso was good, but not great. It was missing most of that caramely, sweet, complex flavor that most cappuccinos/lattes have. It was still good, don't get me wrong, and the design was amazing, but I only give it a 7/10. Yes, it beats Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks, hands down. But I have to believe that there is better coffee somewhere in this town...

    (4)

  • Michael B.

    I love nearly everything about Render--the coffee, the vibe, the food (most made on premises), and the friendly staff. What I dislike, and why this review isn't five stars (as if anyone cares) is that most of the time a lot of the patrons (usually one per table, plus laptop) behave as if it's a library rather than a coffee house, and will give you looks or passive-aggressive sighs if you're having a normal conversation at a normal sound level because they have, like, a bio exam tomorrow or a dissertation chapter due and you're obviously being insensitive to their need to focus or whatever. It's a cafe, not study hall. So, yeah, it can feel a little unwelcoming if you aren't getting your coffee and food to go.

    (4)

  • Laura Cristina M.

    Extra Extra! Read all about it! Render has been selected as one of the best coffee shops in the Nation and its all true. Whenever I'm in the mood for excellent, strong, bold, distinct expresso, Render is the way to go. Here, you'll get the macchiato in the area. Lovely outdoor seating area. Friendly staff. Its a great place to either concentrate and work or let your mind wander ad relax.

    (5)

  • Dziabek A.

    I love the attention to detail in this boutique coffee shop. Although it is on a slow side , I enjoy coming here when I am not in a rush

    (5)

  • Kevin M.

    Really pleased with Render! The espresso was great and made for a nice little cortado. The goat cheese/spinach quiche was just the right size for light breakfast. Apparently I went at a good time (11am) because there were plenty of seats to choose from on the back patio. Will definitely be going back!

    (5)

  • Amy E.

    A pretty sweet spot! They have the basics -- good coffee, pastries, and the typical cafe menu items. I like this place because it has a really nice feel to it and is pretty roomy. There's also a nice dome sitting room and a porch/balcony, if you want sunshine while you sip on your coffee.

    (4)

  • Vina A.

    Wonderful coffee that is beautifully prepared. Friendly and helpful staff. The two Wraps we tried left much to be desired (hummus wrap and the chicken feta) so we will stick to the sandwiches. The blueberry scone was great!!

    (4)

  • Eric F.

    With the departure of Uptown Espresso Caffe comes one seriously awesome coffee bar focusing on impeccably executed single-serve liquid black gold. The baristas here know their beans and are clearly enthusiastic about exploring the world of coffee and crafting the perfect cup of Joe. Beans are sourced from Counter Culture Coffee, an excellent choice as evidenced by their use in other top coffeehouses like Pavement over by Hynes Convention Center...as well as my taste buds ;) I tried the Karatu from Thika, Kenya and it was pretty fantastic. Likewise, the espresso drinks like their Cortado and Latte are very well done. The pour overs (no drip coffee here) are indeed a bit on the pricier side, so it may not be the best choice for those who just want some quick, decent coffee in the morning. However, any true lover of coffee will appreciate the care put into each and every cup here =D

    (5)

  • Erik J.

    I decided to update my review / rating. I have been going to Render for nearly 2 years now. The only downfall is the wait time on a the espresso coffees. They still make the best coffee in town, however having to wait 5 - 10 minutes can be a bit tedious. Admittedly I was spoilt growing up in Australia where I would wait 1 - 2 minutes for a good latte

    (4)

  • Branden E.

    Amazing Chai Latte! Perfectly spiced.

    (4)

  • Joseph D.

    This is not Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks, so don't expect an instant product. This establishment is very well run, consistent service and produces a great product. Also have to mention the great atmosphere: free wifi and very comfortable! Despite being relatively pricey for a coffee shop, the product is worth it. My wife is gluten free and they were more than willing to accommodate their menu. Show up early on the weekends because they fill up fast. Outdoor seating is available during sunshine days and is definitely a great atmosphere. If you have any issues, be sure to contact the employees. They know what is good and want to serve. Enjoy!

    (5)

  • Ross D.

    Render coffee is really cute. They are very knowledgeable about their beans and their brewing techniques. They pride themselves on their pour-over coffee. There are a few paninis as well, and a good selection of teas and cold drinks. I had a japanese iced coffee and a veggie panini. The coffee was nice and strong, and the panini was a surprising mix with goat cheese to spice things up. I ordered to go, but their rear seating area looks cozy and very greenhouse-like. I'll be back to hang out for a bit!

    (5)

  • Chewie L.

    Can I just take a moment and talk about their BTL? Seriously. This thing is delicious. I've gotten two in one sitting before. It has such a fragrant smell and the bacon is ample and not too little as is often the case with these types of sandwiches. I've been coming here since before it was Render mainly because it's right around the corner from where I live. It's also quite quiet and the coffee/espresso offerings are pretty decent. They make a mean dirty chai but what keeps me coming back is their BTL.

    (4)

  • Kim P.

    I wished I lived closer to Render. Great coffee, excellent food (I had some sort of quiche with spinach) and friendly employees. It's the absolutely perfect place to trick off with your friends when you want to be in the city, out of the public eye (I say that like I'm some celebrity, but you know what I mean), and able to talk to someone and hear their response. Cool little spot.

    (4)

  • Corey G.

    I recently came across a man hitchhiking on the side of the road. I offered him a ride. In thanks, he offered me use of his most prized possession: a crystal ball. The crystal ball was legitimate. It could foresee the future of any man or woman with complete accuracy. The truth it revealed was absolute. How I knew this, I could not tell, but the depths of my souls recognized the majestic power of the crystalline structure set before me. However, the crystal ball only works once per person, the man explained to me with a patient smile. It would only show a twenty second clip of some point of your life in the future. There is nothing you can do to urge the crystal ball to a particular time period, or potential event. It is above the wishes of mortals. I peered in. Before me sat a man, foreign yet familiar. Undoubtedly it was me, except twenty years older. I appeared to be sitting in a boutique coffee shop. This was odd. I was never much of a coffee drinker. But, there I was, animatedly discussing the intricate flavors of the brew that sat before me with my fellow patrons - those that would listen, at least. I was struck with the fervor and excitement I expressed of my caffeinated beverage. It was clear that coffee had become an enormous passion of mine. The crystal ball's vision ended before I could reflect further. I was struck with disappointment. I had a window into my future, and was given a vision of an older me drinking coffee. No insight to amass a fortune. No foreshadowing of some hardship of which I could steel myself against. Coffee. In my life up until that point, coffee was a tool more so than anything else. A means to start or extend the day, hardly something worthy of the excitement I was displaying in the vision. I quickly forgot about it. Months later I was walking in the neighborhood and passed by Render. The memories of my potential future came rushing back. I was faced with a choice - embrace the apparent unavoidable passion for what contained therein, or continue down the block to Dunkin Donuts. I went in. I explained my lack of knowledge about what I was doing and was helped by a blonde barista. She was infinitely helpful and insightful in describing how coffee is made without a Keurig. I ordered something. It was not a House Blend and was from somewhere specific. What followed was one of the most intensely pleasurable beverage drinking experiences I have ever had. The lingering disappointment from the crystal ball episode faded and was replaced with a renewed appreciation and optimism for the future that lay ahead of me. Not only did I look forward to the next cup, and each cup thereafter for the next twenty years, but from the first sip the very day itself seemed to improve. Coffee instantly became an enormously enjoyable part of my life, and I have Render to thank. (I must say that anyone expecting the earth-shattering experience I encountered here with my first cup of real coffee will be sorely disappointed. However, if you are looking for perhaps the best cup of coffee in Boston, Render is the place.)

    (5)

  • Mike R.

    A cup of coffee cost $5, and all I asked for was a 'cup of black coffee.' Ouch! They have free wifi and outlets which is great, but the staff was complaining about too many people hanging out for too long. Bagel with cream cheese and lox was just OK.

    (2)

  • Tom L.

    Best I've ever been to. Way better tea and coffee and extras than any Starbucks !! The parfait and granola is really, really delicious and the brewed tea is way better than bags!!!

    (5)

  • Kenneth R.

    I spent five nights at the Marriott on Huntington Ave. and came to Render every morning for breakfast. The pour-over coffees are great, and I liked all the Render folk behind the counter. Early in the morning, there weren't all that many customers, but the coffeehouse still had a good vibe. I wish there were more options for breakfast. At Crema in Harvard Square (which admittedly is a lot bigger), you can find fresh-squeezed orange juice, made-from-scrath oatmeal, fresh fruit, yogurt and probably a lot more. At Render, there are pastries, bagels, quiches (two kinds on the day that I ordered one) and frittata sandwiches.

    (4)

  • Maureen D.

    Amazing fair trade coffee, intelligent friendly staff, and lots of room to hang out and enjoy your delicious drink.

    (5)

  • B B.

    Best hazelnut latte EVER. Ever. They use real ground hazelnuts, none of that fake syrup crap. $4.50 for a latte? A bit steep. $4.50 for a hot cup of heaven? Deal of the century...

    (5)

  • Mike M.

    The quintessential Southie coffee shop (well this and Jaho). The space is kind of odd. Limited seating, but it's not particularly dense. There is also a cutaway-section of the shop which is sort of like a gazebo. I really don't know how to describe it. Render has a pretty extensive pastry and lunch item menu, but where they really hit a homerun is in their pour overs. When I was there last, they had beans from Papa New Guinea, Ecuador, and Ethiopia, but it changes often. I had the Baroida pour over, which is from Papa New Guinea, and while it wasn't the strongest coffee I've had, it certainly was amongst the more aromatic and flavorful. The strong spicy flavor of the coffee mingling with hints of subtle berries, blew my mind. Many of the pastries here are not baked in house. For instance, they have Kringles from Danish Pastry House. Render also has a good selection of quiches (at least I think they're quiches), sandwiches, stuffed peppers, cookies, muffins, and scones. You won't find too many exotic drinks like you would at Pavement or 1369 Coffee, but they brew a damn good pour over.

    (4)

  • Lauren D.

    I went out of my way to check this place out, because of a special on TV and all the reviews. I'm not sure if it had too much hype, so my expectation were too high, but I really thought it was nothing great. In fact my pour over coffee was completely cold. I give it a 3 because the quiche was really good and the back deck and sunroom are a nice option to chill out and the staff was friendly. But really, the coffee wasn't anything great at all, just over priced.

    (3)

  • Farrah H.

    I really like this place. You can't tell from the front but, in the back, they have this private solarium. It feels like a private retreat in the middle of the city. The food is good cafe fair (not GREAT but a solid good), the coffee is excellent, the staff friendly, the WiFi free and it's not overly loud. All great qualifications for a coffee shop. There is only street parking but that is to be expected in the South End. Overall, I would highly recommend visiting if you are in the area.

    (4)

  • Neal M.

    It's a five star for service and supporting the independent quality coffee. the price for what it is is fine and bring it to your table is worth a tip. I likened it to Phil's Coffee in SF. I really like a coffee I can drink black, a rare thing in this bean town. I'm not sure how big a lunch or to-go menu they have. Maybe some killer baked goods to accompany the laid back scene. The flagged opinion of a faster drip coffee is a valid point with Dunkin next door. It's far busier than its past incarnation.

    (5)

  • Pamela P.

    Great coffee and great atmosphere. Thank you for an enjoyable experience.

    (5)

  • Steven E.

    The lattes are great but take forever and a day. Go here when you have no place to be.

    (3)

  • Caryn H.

    Best coffee around

    (5)

  • Stefan H.

    Best coffee I have had yet in Boston. Serious iterations of Counter Culture beans are no accident: these folks care about your coffee! Great service and a nice hang as well....

    (5)

  • Rachel F.

    cold brew iced coffee was soo good. mellow, sweet, tangy perfect. they have a sort of awkward back patio but it does the trick. my friends got a sandwich which looked substantial and was grilled and filled with avocado and melty cheese and turkey and thick bread. yum.

    (4)

  • Ella B.

    Fresh coffee by the cup. Great skylight seating. A little snug, but terrific place!

    (5)

  • Mui C.

    The coffee is magnificent here! So glad I dropped by Sunday morning for coffee talk with my friend at this location! Service was great as well! I witnessed one of the employees make their breakfast from scratch which was awesome to see! At least you know their food is fresh. Definitely go here for breakfast/coffee. Vanilla latte was delicious. Will be returning to try their Hazelnut latte.

    (5)

  • Leia K.

    Delicious coffee, tasty food, friendly people and a great place to work. Love that it has outdoor seating and large windows. The only negative is the smell--the cooked food smell (probably the frittatas) sort of stagnates in the air, which for me, sometimes gets in the way of enjoying the flavor and the experience. A little well-designed ventilation and one or two comfy armchairs, and this place would be perfection.

    (4)

  • Lena B.

    I love this place! I've been twice, had espresso once and a pourover the second time. Great, great coffees on both occasions -- with the espresso, the barista took the time to really dial it in and served me an awesome shot. So worth the wait. I like that they bring your drink to you if you're having it to stay, definitely a nice touch. Great shop!

    (5)

  • Dan A.

    Been going here more often, and the staff has been great lately. If there's better espresso in Boston, I haven't had it yet.

    (5)

  • Jennifer M.

    The most amazing hazelnut low fat latte!! Awesome quiche too. A great lil hang out. You feel like your in someone's house which you kind of are. I am from CT and I would highly recommend this great coffee shop. Avoid DD AND STARBUCKS if you are on vaca... Make a stop here!

    (5)

  • Caitlin C.

    Doesn't seem that they have done much with the decor inside since Uptown Expresso left. Perhaps I am not enough of a coffee-snob, but what does "pour over" do for the coffee? It was a good cup of coffee, don't get me wrong--but FOUR DOLLARS FOR A SMALL COFFEE? It wasn't that good. Then I had to awkwardly wait for 5-7minutes while 1 person poured my coffee and the other employees talked about their personal lives. I almost laughed at the girl when she said my total, not worth it. I won't be back.

    (2)

  • Renee S.

    Was visiting Boston with friends and found Render Coffee while craving a real breakfast before getting on the road to NY. Render was a delight! The staff was knowledgeable and talked us through our coffee options based on our taste. The mini quiche all three had (goat cheese and spinach) was amazing too! The pour over coffee and espresso were hot and fresh. Mmmm. I want to bring them back to Baltimore with me! It felt like a neighborhood spot that was totally welcoming to out of towners too.

    (4)

  • Kathy C.

    Love this coffee shop. Their iced coffee is delicious, great place to get some work done, very pleasant staff, food is good. A little pricey, but I work with it. I come here often and will be a favourite study spot of mine for the future!

    (4)

  • Michael B.

    The coffee scene in Boston is alive and well. As a former barista I have pretty high standards, but I've got say, this place is one of the best coffee houses in Boston. Their pour over coffees are made with loving care. It is pretty obvious that the barista's know what they are doing. And, unlike other decent spots in Boston, this place is consistant. I've been here a bunch of times now and have had a few different guys make my coffee. Every time it has been superb. If you're looking for a great coffee shop in the south end / back bay area, Render will not disappoint.

    (5)

  • Espresso T.

    I give 4 stars to the coffee and the scone I had. The ambiance is fine, but the seating space is a bit tight, which makes the place feel less laid-back than I would want. The cappuccino was good (though a bit stronger than what I would like). The scone, which I asked for it to be heated up, was quite good as well.

    (4)

  • Jessica H.

    Render's coffee is unbelievable. I'd never had slow-drip coffee before and I swear, it has CHANGED ME. Their soy lattes are unreal. They usually have a pretty decent selection of baked goods, and I'm especially partial to their quiches. The staff are super friendly, and they have an adorable little patio in the back which is great when the weather is nice. This is my favorite coffee shop in Boston!

    (5)

  • Judy H.

    I am not a coffee snob or even a coffee lover, but I love this place. Very calming spot, I felt as if I was in the home of a good friend. I had the most amazing hand poured and freshly made iced tea. It was perfect. The staff was friendly welcoming and great about making suggestions with about being pretentious. The food was also really good, I had a lovely little quiche with a filo crust, very nice. Can't wait to go back.

    (5)

  • Victoria R.

    Render Coffee is a great coffee shop in the South End. As a former Allston resident who's seen their fair share of hipster-ish coffee shops, I'm not the hugest fan of such establishments. However, the staff was not the least bit arrogant or aloof -- as other reviewers have mentioned, they were extremely pleasant and took the time to explain my coffee options. Yes, it was a bit pricey, but worth it for a weekend splurge. My pour-over coffee was divine, and with a mixed berry scone (dry, but complemented the coffee well) I was only set back about $5, which is comparable to nearby ERC, ABP, or Panera. The glass room in the back is amazing and a great setting for a fantastic cup of coffee. Definitely worth the trip!

    (4)

  • Joy D.

    Great cafe! They have delicious teas and lattes. I also got a turkey wrap which was quite tasty. We went on a Sunday afternoon with nice weather, so they were so busy we couldn't get a table. But we didn't mind since we walked to the nearby reflecting pool and ate there (About a half mile away).

    (5)

  • David D.

    This place is great. FINALLY, some good coffee in the So. End! The food is really solid too. I had the breakfast sandwich (try the rosemary & potato) on 7-grain and it was delightful. Almost missed them because of the scaffolding on the front of the building, but sure am glad I found them. Nice addition to the neighborhood.

    (5)

  • Linh S.

    The coffee takes a bit to receive but they've also put a lot of effort and time into making it perfect. Their hazelnut latte is a standout item. I wonder if they make a puree or butter of hazelnut because the latte is noticeably thicker and what I initially thought were grains of coffee, were actually tiny bits of hazelnut. A hazelnut latte with one of their quiches (although I argue that it has the density of a frittata) induces a wholly relaxing experience.

    (5)

  • Christine W.

    Great outside patio and sun room! Only found this place today and got a yummy parfait. Look forward to returning for a pour over coffee and some time in the sun with a book!

    (4)

  • Tom O.

    Exceptional in every way! Very courteous and knowledgeable staff. The freshly poured coffee selections are worth the few extra minutes of wait time, and homemade food like daily soups and creative sandwiches are terrific! The atmosphere of this little shop is really unique. I use it for meetings with friends and clients.

    (5)

  • Vin M.

    Tasty, hot decaf latte, artistically prepared, delicious chai latte.

    (5)

  • Kari W.

    Very knowledgeable staff, amazing skill in crafting drinks. Best americano I've ever had. Food looks really great too!

    (5)

  • Ramon D.

    Lets start with this - the coffee is amazing and the best breakfast sandwich in all of Boston can be found at Render. Moving on, and perhaps more importantly, the staff and owners are wonderful people. They will take the time to not only explain to you the different brew methods and coffee selections they have, but what makes these things unique. Moreover, the vibe here is very different than most third wave coffee shops in Boston as sugar and milk in coffee is not considered sacrilege. Who wouldve thought that you should be able to do as you please with the coffee you purchase? So yes, great people, great coffee, and great breakfast sandwiches. Why are you still reading this? Go now!

    (5)

  • Michael R.

    Totally worth the $2-4 splurge on top of what you would normally pay for a cup of coffee. The guys at Render are artists, there's no doubt about it, and I'm hooked on their Vanilla Lattes. Plus the windowed room in the back is a great place to just sit and enjoy one of their inspired brews (next time I think I'm gonna try their hipsterish pour-over coffees). Admittedly, this isn't the place to go to save a buck but like I mentioned before -- it's a splurge buy that's definitely worth it.

    (5)

  • Jordyne W.

    Be ready to be WOWED. I've had memorable coffee only 2 times in my life-- Philz in San Francisco and now at Render. The latte I had tasted deep and nutty (I think it's the default one they serve this season that says vanilla, cherry-- but it's really not sweet at all). It was creamy and truly tasty-- without the taste coming from sugar or cream-- just amazing coffee! Staff is really friendly and passionate about coffee too!

    (5)

  • Scott E.

    Definitely some of the best coffee that I have had in Boston. Had a cup of the Guatemalan, and it it was very good. Look forward to trying out some of the other coffee types

    (5)

  • M. A.

    One of my favorite coffee shops in Boston/Cambridge. Great coffee, friendly staff, nice back patio, and pretension-free cupping events (I didn't know that was possible). I especially appreciate that they are welcoming to a laptop crowd with outlets, free wifi, and no dirty looks - a true rarity around these parts. As a responsible coffee shop coworker who makes sure to purchase something at frequent interims while settling in somewhere, this is my working at home preferred home (though I actually do this at most once every two-three weeks).

    (4)

  • Daniel R.

    Let's start with the food. Their pastries are pretty good, many of which are sourced from 3 Little Figs in Somerville. I also had one of their sandwiches, apple poblano pulled-chicken, which was tasty and creative but extremely messy and a tad on the expensive side for what it was. They serve MEM Tea and Tazo Chocolate (which they also use for their hot chocolate). Typical Boston fare I guess, but MEM and Tazo are wonderful so that's not a bad thing. Now here's why Render really stands out: First of all, they use wonderful coffee. The owner of Render used to be the manager of Pavement and Espresso Royale. Naturally, Render uses Counter Culture coffee beans, but somehow they really showcase the best of Counter Culture here, and they give me a newfound appreciation for the North Carolina-based roaster that no other coffeehouse in the area has done. This is truly exceptional coffee. Second of all, the service is faaaaabulous. Probably the best service I've ever received in a cafe. You might not ever guess that Chuck (Render's star barista, who used to work at The Thinking Cup when it first opened) is the winner of Boston's first Latte Art Throwdown-- or maybe you would, if he pours you some really pretty latte art, but I digress. He is one of the least pretentious, most sincere baristas to ever serve me coffee. Heck, the entire staff rocks. The service I've gotten here is personable, punctual, and knowledgeable without being remotely pretentious-- a very very rare combination, and I will admit that even some coffeeshops I frequent much more than Render can't quite pull that off. Anywhere else I can be chatting with some lovely guy behind the counter who doesn't know a thing about coffee, or I can go to some stuffy coffeeshop where all the knowledgeable baristas talk down to you because you're some plebeian something or other. Not at Render. No sir. If you're not enamored by the staff here you're probably cold and heartless and might be better off drinking liquid charcoal at a Starbucks.

    (5)

  • John P.

    If you have five extra minutes for a seriously good cup of coffee, latte, cappuccino, or espresso, stop by Render. If you have ten extra minutes, chat with the guys behind the bar about the latest coffees and brewing methods. They're super friendly and have super coffee-smarts. If you're running late and have to grab a quick coffee from the place down the street, be sad. Very sad.

    (5)

  • Jennifer A.

    Love this place! If your a coffee snob, get yourself to Render ASAP. They have a limited coffee menu, but it's oh, so good! I had one of their pour over coffees, a coffee from El Salvador. Incredible flavors. My husband got an espresso drink, the corado... basically a cappuccino with not as much milk. Equally as tasty. Coffee is a more pricey then a Starbucks, but you can't even compare the quality. Their espresso based drinks are on equal pricing. I look forward to testing out more of their coffee blends!

    (5)

  • Dan L.

    I thought I had the best coffee in Boston with the Tremont St cafe (which I shamefully have forgotten the name of), but step aside! The Render Cafe has kicked it up a notch or twelve. Let's begin by saying that I might go to the South End on purpose perhaps once or twice per year; it is no small feat getting there and parking can be stupid. I am way too old to depend on the T or to park more than a hundred yards from storefront. So you know when Chronicle spotlights yet another South End destination, I tend to yawn. But this episode was different. They highlighted how the cafe owners have taken brewing a perfect cup of coffee to near spiritual fanaticism. I was hooked and when Sunday morning came around, my wife and I headed over at 7am and WAITED for the doors to open! We were not disappointed. We were greeted with a sincere friendliness that made us feel welcomed (almost as important as any other factor in my opinion). We were "warned" that there pour-over method of brewing coffee would take 4 minutes. Contrast that with 14 seconds at the Dunks just a few doors down. We happily waited as the awesome guy behind the counter carefully poured hot water into the filter in a methodical process reminiscent of a chemist in a lab. While we waited, we took our seats out in the cool back area that instantly transported us to Not-Boston. They delivered the coffee and small savory quiche to us and explained that the coffee will develop flavors as it cools and to make sure that I save a little to test. Awesomeness. At this point, even if the coffee were mediocre, we were still flying high from all coffee knowledge and casual conversations. But rest assured, the coffee was nothing less than amazing. If that is what coffee is supposed to taste like, I hate that I had to wait 47 years to figure that out! My wife and I nearly forgot the three children at home waiting for us. After yet another awesome conversation with the woman behind the counter about the bogus-ness of the term "fair trade," we left with dreams of returning. Thank you, Render Cafe, for making this an ethereal experience and we can't wait to see you again! Keep up the good work!

    (5)

  • lois h.

    This rating is only for the filter coffee not the espressos which I'm sure are excellent. My husband makes a better French press coffee using average beans. The name "render" made me feel I'd been rendered. The taste of the coffee reminded me of the boiled peas coffee water they used to serve out in Hermosa Beach's "Poop Deck" on the beach many years ago.

    (3)

  • Laura K.

    For coffee lovers and rookies all the same, render has an atmosphere unlike any other. From it homemade hazelnut and vanilla flavors (no syrups to be found) to its broad selection of worldly coffees, this place will cause every other coffee shop to fall short in your book.

    (5)

  • Melanie C.

    Render Coffee in the South End are very serious about their coffee, friendly staff, beautiful space, jazz at a perfect volume level, good lunch food, good tea, clean and very comfortable ... wonderful little business definetely worth encouraging!!

    (5)

  • George S.

    Life is too short for Dunkin' Donuts. Great coffee and I really like those quiches. Staff cares about their work and is friendly despite being awkward. The decor doesn't quite fit for what you would expect, but the coffee, what matters here, is top notch.

    (4)

  • Kate S.

    I really really really want Render to be my new coffee place. I bike commute to BUMC, and there's very few coffee options on my route, and the hospital itself only has a really awful Starbucks stand and a couple of cafeteria style drips. Flour's line is always 20 minutes in the morning, and their espresso always tastes burnt. Jaho is ok, but lacks depth. I've been into Render a few times now, and first, the employees are always excellent. They're friendly and are good with the witty banter thing. They also seem to really care about their product, so I'm hoping they are paying attention to Yelp and will see that I'm having the same trouble as some other reviewers. First, it takes them a really long time to pull any shots for espresso. I understand that it's not a Starbucks robo-machine, but it also shouldn't take so long that my latte comes out luke warm. Which has happened all 3 times, with different baristas. I'm pretty sure that the flavor is good, but I really can't tell when it's so cool. :( Second, the single size pricing just doesn't make sense. I bring my own sealable 12oz container so I can bike with it. It's silly that there's no payment option for the most normal size coffee in the US. This means that I have to pay for more coffee than I actually receive. Most places not only charge me for a 12oz cup, they give me a small discount since I have my own, reusable cup. Third, those are some hiiiigh prices. As a Pacific Northwest native, I've come to accept coffee as my supreme master, and am willing to pay far too much for it. But not that much. This could be immediately alleviated by giving customers a punch card for a free drink with X number of drinks. These programs do tend to even out the price for long-term customers versus the cheaper chain options, promoting loyalty. Please make this place worthy of 5 stars.

    (3)

  • Stephanie B.

    i'm concerned about giving render coffee a good rating because i love it so much, and am not really interested in sharing. the baked goods are so, so great. cookies. almond croissants. the breakfast sandwich is divine, and made in-house, unlike the pastries. and the coffee. lord, the coffee. i love to sit in the back and feel like i'm in a greenhouse. if the space were larger i would sit here all day, but people have given me the evil eye for taking up a table. it's right around the corner from my school and i'm just waiting for everyone to find out about it. thankfully they are pretty devoted to panera and pavement-formerly-erc. let them stay there; render is mine.

    (5)

  • Claudia S.

    We decided to stop in since reviews on yelp were good. Their selection of coffee and treats was unusual, some of the artisan coffees you have not heard of, hand made chocolates. The windows displayed some quiches and couple of other things. We sat down not expecting much. Was totally blown away by the quality and deliciousness of the food. The chicken salad sandwich was out of this world with many flavors mixing....it had fresh spinach, cranberries and toasted pumpkin seeds. One of the artisan coffees I had was extraordinary. Although not evident, I understand that most of their food is organic, locally sourced. You could tell there was something unusual about how the food tasted. The sitting area was quite lovely, the outdoor was a bit chili but we sat in a glass enclosed porch with neat views of the street. I do not think the food was expensive considering the ingredients used are of the highest quality. Go and try it out, you will love it!

    (5)

  • Nancy F.

    I have been in Boston for 4 days, staying in Copley/Back Bay area, and wanted a high quality local coffee shop where I could re-charge and get a little something to eat. Thanks to Yelp, I found Render my first day and had breakfast and coffee there everyday. Great artisan latte. I tried the goat cheese quiche (made with phyllo dough) and the breakfast sandwhich. Both great. Calm vibe to the place. The back atrium and outdoor seating are nice options. 10-15 minute walk from Copley.

    (5)

  • Jon M.

    The best coffee I've had in Boston and the food is great too. We may have all forgotten the amount of time it actually takes to make real food but give it a minute, it's well worth the attention to detail. The staff is knowledgeable about what they serve and where the ingredients come from without being pretentious. All around, a great experience in the few months I've been coming here.

    (5)

  • G H.

    Excellent coffee prepared by friendly, knowledgeable staff who seem genuinely interested in delivering a top-quality product. What's not to like? Sure, it takes a few minutes and it's not cheap, but I don't mind paying a bit more for the experience. If you're ordering coffee "for here" they serve it in a proper ceramic cup rather than in a disposable paper or (worse yet) Styrofoam cup, as so many coffee places seem willing to do. Their food items (baked goods and sandwiches) are fresh and tasty as well. If I didn't live on the other side of town I'd be here all the time, but I'm planning to make regular visits nonetheless!

    (5)

  • Tony P.

    If you're looking for a true portlandia experience come here. Be forewarned if you ask the barista why the coffee (pour over) maker is a strange contraption of sorts she'll reply cheerily about how stupid you have been for drinking anything else besides pour over coffee for your whole life. The inside is cool with a small gazebo area to slurp your expensive hipster beverage while everyone around can hear you breathing or talking to your mom about the perils of medical school (cadavers, eww omg). The coffee is actually tasty and very high quality if that's what you're into and it's one of a few places in the area to get direct trade coffee(again, if that's your thing). The decorating is terrible one star off for that. I can get over pretentious staff and expensive prices but the whole experience seems artificial when you're surrounded by thanksgiving decorations and tacky art. Either be a hipster coffee shop or not. This place floats somewhere in between, trying desperately to be hip but missing the mark by a few feet. Still, it is arguably the best of the generally low quality coffee shops in the area. If you're looking for pour over coffee, are willing to pay the price and not ask too many questions (for fear of being judged a newb by hipster staff), this place is your spot.

    (3)

  • Liz R.

    I was avoiding the gym and wanted an iced coffee caffeine kick beforehand, but was sick of burnt bean Starbucks and watery cardboard Dunkin Donuts, so decided to give this place a try. Also: great delay tactic since it's a farther walk from my apartment, thus cutting into my alleged gym time. The space is welcoming and cute - the atrium and the outdoor seating out back are adorable. I kept thinking it would be a great date place (you know, for someone who had a date with another human, not the gym). The staff was friendly, although as others have noted not great efficiency or speed. I attribute this to both the laid back hipster vibe and also the fact their type of coffee skills take longer. My only beef? Price. It's $2.62 at Starbucks for a grande (16 oz) iced coffee. It's $3.21 for a 16 oz iced coffee at Render. Neither charge me for soy milk. Is the Render coffee better? Absolutely. I am by no means a coffee expert, and I always add soy milk since I'm a wuss, but the clarity and purity of the taste of their cold brewed without anything in it (I sipped before adding anything) was just insane. SO GOOD. If I was a real coffee connoisseur I would move here. A final note: the soy milk they use is bland and they need to up their soy milk game (the stuff Starbucks uses is pure crack - vanilla-flavored beats plain any day). I'd definitely go back here, but it is a hit to the wallet. More of a "treat" for me than an everyday thing.

    (4)

  • Camille D.

    Render is definitely leading the charge for better coffee in Boston. After my second visit, I have concluded they are leaps and bounds ahead of the competition. My cappuccino was well-balanced, with the sweetness of the milk shining through, yet still maintaining a strong espresso flavor. My husband's americano was less exciting, tasting a little flat. I will definitely be back and am looking forward to trying the egg sandwich. However, the space is not inviting, so don't plan on spending your day in the cafe enjoying coffee and reading the paper. Best to pop by for a quick espresso or cappuccino and then keep truckin'.

    (4)

  • Nicole M.

    Pour over coffee Fantastic music selection Cute seating in the sunroom or out on the deck Oh yeah, I'm a fan.

    (4)

  • Lily J.

    Nice cafe, friendly service. Free wifi. Seating is limited, so it can be hard to get a table. They serve pour-over coffee, a nice selection of teas, and a bunch of pastries and bagels (extra 50 cents for added butter seems steep though). There's a small outdoor patio area in the back which is nice when the weather is good.

    (4)

  • Danny D.

    We were visiting for a couple of days and found this coffee shop through yelp. They served wesome lates and the staff was very attentive. The service here is premiere. I'd recommend this place to anyone. I will definitely come back.

    (5)

  • Tammie T.

    I dream of the day when there is absolutely nothing to do so I can come to this place again just to sit in the back porch with a hazelnut latte every waking moment since the first time I went there... Oh Render, you are my fire, the one desire, believe when I say... I want it that way!

    (5)

  • Stephen R.

    I was at Render recently when visiting a friend who lives nearby and was disappointed with my overall experience. I ordered a cappuccino though the foam-to-milk-to-espresso ratios were more like a foamy latte than a true cappuccino. There were technical problems with the iPad-as-register, creating backups and confusion which the people behind the counter didn't handle well. Once the register problems were resolved and the barista was ready to start making my drink, it took him a long time to make a disappointing drink. As someone who has worked as a barista in several establishments, I know that a lot of complaints customers lodge against coffee shops are unwarranted. However, considering what Render charges for their products, they should do more to give their customers a better overall experience. Lots of people have reviewed Render as a place to go if you really LOVE coffee. But, if Render is truly the "best coffee in town," as some reviewers have said, Boston must drink some pretty mediocre coffee.

    (2)

  • Sharon C.

    They play good music (I think there was some DJ Shadow while I was in there), the coffee is really good, and the service is friendly. I'm glad I live across the street from this place. I'll definitely be hanging out there.

    (5)

  • Jonathan C.

    Excellent food and very service friendly employees. Great seating in the back with a beautiful atrium as well as comfortable outdoor seating. They have excellent fresh brewed tea and a lovely smoked salmon plate with a bagel, cream cheese, capers, tomato, and fresh onion. We also tried a spinach and bacon quiche with delightful melted cheese topping. We will definitely return for another visit.

    (5)

  • Natsuki K.

    This is my new favorite cafe of the year. The inside is really cozy with seats outside in the back, the people working are really nice and friendly, and the coffee OMG. I only ordered an iced coffee (which is rare haha) but seriously that was the best iced coffee I've ever had.

    (5)

  • Anya W.

    Render is a small, charming coffeehouse near the Mass Ave T stop. Very gay-friendly vibe, and it feels like affluent gay men are their ideal customers. I had an Earl Grey tea and sat by the window watching the South End action outside. Downside is the tables were all taken--it's small so getting a seat isn't guaranteed.

    (4)

  • John C.

    Spot on coffee! I don't give too many 5-star ratings since I review just coffee on here (for the most part) so take this with extra weight. There is an odd social problem of considering $5 for an alcoholic drink normal (or cheap) and a $3-5 hand-poured coffee absurd. The amount of effort and knowledge that goes into growing, processing, transporting, choosing, storing, roasting, transporting, grinding, and brewing coffee correctly (hint: only a handful of places can pull off a correct pour-over) is insanity for people who never thought about it. (No more Kalitas just FYI)

    (5)

  • Diana O.

    Love this coffee shop, my new favorite get-stuff-done spot despite having to take the bus all the way from Porter. This little cafe has a wonderful atmosphere and an at-home feel. Best of all, they have a sunroof in the back which allows for outdoor-like studying even on a chilly, dreary day.

    (5)

  • Dan C.

    This coffee shop has a wonderful, laid back atmosphere that is only enhanced by the shaded patio and naturally-lit seating area in the rear of the store. They have an excellent selection of coffees and their baked goods are wonderful as well. Prices are very reasonable - I paid about 5.00 for a double shot of espresso and a toasted bagel with cream cheese. The baristas and other workers are very nice and friendly - open to conversation and even questions about their coffees and brewing methods. The rear seating area with the patio has a nice view of Wellington st, with shrubbery and trees framing the view of the street. Keeping the rear area with natural lighting helps the atmosphere as well. Their service if you order for here is not exactly snappy, but the food and drink is well worth the wait; every item tastes and looks like the maker put lots of care into it. They carry many locally grown and sourced coffees and bakery items, and they are "gay-friendly"(there's a sticker on their door), which is a plus in my book. Overall very excellent place to relax and have a cup of coffee and a little something extra. I plan on coming here all the time in the future.

    (5)

  • Kelly A.

    Render is a great coffee shop in the South End. I ended up going there quite a bit over the summer since my daughter's music class was right around the corner. They have an extensive coffee offering, and they know their stuff - they can answer any question about any of the coffees in their rotation. They also do all their coffees (hot and iced) pourover, so they're all made to order. The pastry case has many yummy treats, including scones, muffins, and Iggy's bagels. Their back porch is an awesome place to chill out and enjoy a reprieve from the hustle and bustle, and the staff is delightful: knowledgeable, kind, and willing to answer questions and offer recommendations. Plus they take Levelup. Love!

    (5)

  • Danielle C.

    I love this place. I just came for the second time, and had a delicious breakfast sandwich and hazelnut latte on their outdoor deck. The service is friendly, and both food and drinks are delicious. Add to that the perfect coffee shop vibe, and I've found my go to cafe in the area.

    (5)

  • Andrew R.

    Great coffee, nice clean space, an interesting sunroom-type thing, very friendly service, free wifi. The ambiance was a little too quiet for me, and the seating a little too sparse. I'd happily go back to grab-and-go, but I'll keep looking for a study place.

    (3)

  • Kate L.

    My BLT sandwich and iced coffee were amazing. I went back to the counter for a chocolate cupcake and autumn harvest tea latte, which were similarly amazing. The atmosphere is very open and airy, and the staff was so friendly. My only complaint is that there aren't quite enough outlets for coffeeshop dwellers like me ;) The food, drinks, and service more than made up for it though, and I'm happy to give this place five stars!

    (5)

  • Richard K.

    This is the best coffee shop I've been to in Boston, all the employees really care about the quality of the work they do. Although you will wait longer and pay a bit more than any other national coffee chain, it's well worth the extra money and time. The pourovers are excellent, espresso amazing, and iced coffee is delicious (cold-brewed). Even though I live in East Boston I plan on coming back many more times.

    (5)

  • Leah M.

    This place was good enough to get me to make my first Yelp review. I happened to roam in here tonight because I had an appointment across the street at 6PM and I arrived in the area at about 5:15. It was cold out and I saw a coffee shop, so I thought 'Meh, why not?' I roamed into what is quite possibly the cleanest, most inviting coffee shop I've ever been to. There's nothing complicated about the menu - simple coffees and snacks to choose from. I went with the hazelnut latte. The only bad thing about this visit was the wait - I waited a good 30 minutes for my coffee that I'd initially ordered to have there, but as 5:45 approached, I wondered how a cup of coffee could possibly take that long to make. I approached one of the barristas and politely reminded her of my order and asked if I could get it to go instead. She told the guy who took my order, who immediately came up to me and apologized for the wait and made my coffee right away...and not only did he make it right away, the presentation was gorgeous, the kind of coffee you see pictures of on random blogs that I personally have always wanted to have. AND, to make up for the wait, he gave me a free chocolate macaron - I LOVE macarons! So, the long wait was forgiven and I'll definitely be back...maybe on a day where I don't have any appointments to rush to. ;) So, 4 stars just because of the wait/possibly being forgotten, but if not for that, this would've been a five star rating. :)

    (4)

  • Elaine C.

    Even though Render have been open since October, I have been way too lazy to write a review. Since its opening in October, Render has impressed me every time I stop in there. From there awesome pour over coffees to their sandwiches, I never leave Render without being satisfied with their customer service and their coffee. In a recent visit, I tried their hazelnut latte, and I was impressed that they incorporated real hazelnut rather than hazelnut syrups that most coffee shops offer. Once again, Render leaves me speechless. An extra perk is that they take Level Up so not having cash or credit card is not a problem!

    (4)

  • Jeff M.

    Nice space. Pleasant service. Good coffee.

    (4)

  • Eric O.

    Great place to grab a coffee, sandwich, or study if you're in the area. They have a few brewing options, and I had an excellent pour-over for about $2.50 (somewhat ridiculous, but par for the course). The staff here really stood out. They were outgoing, friendly, and professional, with no hint of conceit. There's less of a crowd than the Newbury shops and a little more room, but that's not saying much. The seating in the back is pretty tight and I think the AC struggles to keep up, so it's not really an ideal place to read or study but you can get by. The sandwich I had was good but didn't really stand out. They could use an updated, larger menu display to more clearly lay out their offerings and what goes on each.

    (4)

  • Anthony C.

    My favorite coffee shop in Boston. The food is always good. I get breakfast here on-the-go at least once a week: ham and cheese croissant, breakfast sandwich on an everything bagel, a quiche - all delicious. I've had the soup, and a pulled pork sandwich, and those were both tasty, too. The coffee is excellent. I like espresso, so I can't speak for the pour-over, but lots of people order them so I've seen em mid-prep many a time. But that's beside the point: the espresso is really good. My gal says the chai and the tea is really good, too. The best part of Render is the staff. They're all super nice. They recognize you if you go often. They keep it super clean. Feels like home. And, they have a cool iPad point of sale thing that swivels around after they swipe your card so you can tip and sign with your finger. The atrium room in back is a nice spot rain or shine. If you're not in the market for high quality organic coffee and above-the-rest café-fare served up by friendly ladies and gentlemen, walk right on by. If the above sounds amenable and your wallet isn't too thin, don't miss it.

    (5)

  • Nicole R.

    I think I'll just move in here. Love this little shop ex-Espresso Royalers made. So so so good. I am a huge believer in the pour-over method, and they do it up wonderfully here. Yeah, you have to wait more than 30s for your coffee, but it is SO worth it. They stock Counter Culture, who source really amazing deeply flavorful beans and do it great justice. I've got the same roasts at home but my aeropress doesnt touch the pour-over (though is the next best thing, IMO). Their espresso drinks are equally delicious and carefully crafted. Staff are awesome -- super friendly, give great recs, and obviously know what they're doing. I'd love to make it out to a cupping one day.. Decor is simple but nice. Really bright, owing to a nice window in the front and a solarium-type-deal in the back. Love love love it. Awesome addition to the South End.

    (5)

  • Will s.

    Pricey? Yes. Awesome? Yes. Both their coffee and sandwiches are great. The staff is really friendly. It takes awhile when you order a sandwich or something similar, but that's because they really take time to make it well.

    (5)

  • Rick J.

    Great place to relax and have a great latte. Stay out of Starbucks and DD, go where the locals go.

    (5)

  • Lala L.

    Absolutely the BEST coffee in the Boston area! In fact, I went back the next day! You can taste the difference, even if you're not a connoisseur. They don't burn their coffee here, it's not acidic...and YES, you can taste the different undertone flavors in the coffee....The first cup I had was a bit nutty and caramel-ish..and no, did not have a hazelnut/caramel latte. I haven't tried the baked goods there, but the massive croissants and quiches looked very tempting. Can't promise I'll walk out next time with just a drink. The only thing that can be improved is a bigger cup for their iced coffee!

    (5)

  • Yalgin O.

    Really good coffee shop in the neighborhood. Do not be surprised for the drip coffee brewing, it results in amazing flavors. Check out their food and pastries and get some sun in the afternoon at the back patio. Also thumbs up for the excellent music choice.

    (5)

  • Erik S.

    Render is a new member of the small but growing professional coffee bar scene in the Boston area. They serve Counterculture roasts and they do an excellent job at it. They are one of only two coffee shops in the area that uses the new Strada machines from La Marzocco. The baristas are also knowledgable and nice. The drink itself is quite good. I always enjoy Counterculture roasts, and they do a good job with them. I think the only improvements I would like to see is in the texture of their milk. The microfoam started to break down a little quickly, and there were a decent amount of larger bubbles in the foam. These are only minor indicators though, so it's nothing to stress about. The drink was quite good and the space is fantastic. I'll definitely stop in any time I'm in the South End.

    (5)

  • scott w.

    We were visiting from Vancouver and had not had a good cup of coffee in two days. This place is awesome. Montreal style bagels with a crunchy outer shell (the best) and fresh squeezed juice. Cappuccino is small but very tasty.

    (5)

  • Ryan H.

    Yes. I'm not a coffee snob, so can't speak to whether or not they meet the appropriate threshold there, but I do know they host me about 5 mornings a week with the proper Boston hospitality -- not too friendly, but accommodating. Guilty truth is that I take way more (Wi-Fi, an outside seat on a Sunday morning) then I pay. I try to tip unreasonably well as my thanks, but Render is singularly responsible for getting my ass going in the morning. That's worth a lot.

    (5)

  • Sahil K.

    Awesome coffee shop! Had a cappuccino and it was fantastic! The heart came out perfect too :)

    (4)

  • Brent P.

    Fantastic coffee! You can tell they take their coffee and tea seriously. So excited to have a real cafe a few blocks away!

    (5)

  • Sahar Z.

    Coffee and treats are absolutely delicious and I love their patio area in the Summer- its actually a bit romantic with the trees and other greenery around. Great service as well- they bring your coffee to you. My only caution is on the weekends, sometimes they are making these croissants with ham and bacon in this oven and the whole place smells like it (including maybe you afterwards). If you have your coffee and treat outside you will be just fine :)

    (4)

  • Amy W.

    Today at Render marks the first time I've paid nearly $3.00 for a small, black coffee. With that said, I think Render is one of the best coffee shops I've ever been to. The atmosphere is perfect - it's very quiet, as most of the patrons grab a drink or some food and then settle down with their MacBooks to get work done/secretly watch Netflix. The WiFi is fast, the space is absolutely beautiful, and the staff is friendly without being overbearing. It's really an incredibly welcome change from overcrowded, tourist-clogged coffee shops in Back Bay or downtown.

    (5)

  • Maria V.

    This is an amazing little gem in the South End that just opened this year. I live down the street from Render and my boyfriend and I have become regulars there. I can't say enough good things about this place! Firstly the coffee is incredible. I don't often drink coffee, but their pour-over technique really accentuates the natural flavors of each distinctive blend in a way I can't help but admire. My boyfriend likes the Gavilán the best, but I think the most unique coffee offered is the Ididio, which has a pleasant blueberry flavor. In response to complaints about the price of coffee, this is definitely a "you get what you pay for" situation. The quality of each cup more than justifies the price. Additionally, there is always a blend available as a special (priced at $2.50), which is a great deal. I'm a tea drinker myself, and their tea selection is great as well as reasonably priced. The baristas always make sure that the water is brewed to the optimal temperature for the specific type of tea you choose and inform you of the proper steeping time. The Finest Earl Grey and Jasmine Pearls are my favorites there and are also a steal at $2.25 a pot. All teas are priced at $2.25 and you can get as many free hot water refills as you wish. The baked goods here are also wonderful! My favorite are the scones, which come from Three Little Figs in Watertown, and the in-house-made quiches are also very good. I have not tried any of their sandwiches, but I did sample the chicken salad (which was delicious). I recommend trying to snag a seat in the back section of the coffeeshop, a pretty little glassed-in gazebo. Be warned: For now, Render closes at 7pm, but I hear in April they will be extending their evening hours!

    (5)

  • Erik A.

    Render feels really familair to me, the Baristas are from coffee shops around Boston and I the coffee tastes like Stumptown (I think?) They have a different brewing method than many shops around Boston, but I have never been disappointed with any of the iced lattes I order. Nice location, seating in the back is natually lit, and the staff are hispter coffee lovers.

    (4)

  • Felicity L.

    My experience at Render is flawless every single time!!! They have fabulous service, really great coffee, and a beautiful atmosphere! The guys that man the counter are absolutely lovely. On one occasion I ordered a ham and cheese croissant (Danish Pastry House) and the man behind the counter offered to not only warm it up for me, but deliver it to my table. It was one of the tastiest, most memorable things i've eaten in a long, long time. Some of their pastries are made in-house and others are from 3 Little Figs in Somerville and Danish Pastry House in Watertown. The space and decor is gorgeous and calming. I've visited at different times of day and different days of the week and i've always been able to find a seat. I love that they serve their delicious iced coffee in glasses and I love that they have a self-serve water dispenser with big cups instead of the little Dixie cup/shot glass cups that some other places use. There is really nothing they could improve upon. They are first-rate!

    (5)

  • Simon O.

    Render is an awesome addition to the growing BOS coffee scene. It's so great to see a local barista stepping into the role of shop owner and knocking it out of the park. I took advantage of the fact that they were offering the same coffee as guest espresso and as a pour-over option, and got myself one coffee three ways - all done with skill and so, so good. They are a Counter Culture Coffee account, and they are definitely representing them really well. Coffee Nerds: They are slanging bean on a Strada MP, and it looks like they went with the Kalita Wave over Beehouses or everyone's favorite, the V60. Exciting stuff!

    (5)

  • chanelle d.

    Render is so close to my apartment! They have a sun-room seating area that is gorgeous and does a good job making you feel like you are outside but protects you from the elements. They also have a patio with outdoor seating in case you actually want to be outside. The service is very friendly and knowledgeable about coffee. You place your order with a person and then pay on a screen, which prompts (and sort of pressures) you to tip. I'm not used to that, so I think I screwed up a little on the tipping part (sorry!). You find a seat and your order is brought out to you, which is why the service deserves a decent tip. The prices aren't low, but you can't expect them to be. I ordered a hazelnut latte even though what I really wanted was a Spanish latte, which they do not serve. The hazelnut latte was pretty good, it uses real ground hazelnut rather than syrup. I might have liked it more as an iced latte. I also had a ham and cheese croissant, which was a little messy to eat-- I have had less messy meat and cheese croissants that tasted just as good. Overall, I think the food and drinks are decent, and it is a lovely place to sit for a while with a good friend or a good book.

    (3)

  • Judy Leigh A.

    Render, render, render, oh how I love you. No I'm not kidding this little coffee shop offers the best of the south end's coffee, espresso, and cafe beverages. Their pour over coffee takes a few minutes, but it's well worth the wait if you're willing to spend the extra buck for quality. The rotating pour over coffee menu offers up medium roasts with bold taste. One of my favorites are the columbia or the baroida. When it comes to lattes they mean business. The hazelnut iced or hot is amazing. But, if you're not feeling any coffee you could choose tea lattes, hot, or iced tea as well. I typically go for the jasmine green iced tea during the summer months. The food is also on point here from quiche to sandwiches to chocolate croissants. You can't go wrong with any of the options offered. I typically order the breakfast sandwich with avocado and tomato, add spicy sauce, on the five grain bread. I'm positive this is the best combo you could create there. The staff are always friendly and attentive, and still remember me even though I don't live in the south end any more. Honestly, if you haven't tried render you're missing out.

    (5)

  • Ty D.

    I'll start by saying that I do miss Faye from Uptown (the owner/shop that Render has replaced) but am so reassured to see that these guys have taken over the space. I'm not a coffee expert (just a regular, medium, drip coffee usually does it for me) and it seems that they have an uphill battle to "educate" the local market on the benefits of exotic beans and pour-over technique. That being said, it's great to see someone come up with a differentiation strategy, especially since Dunkin' is on the same block. The pour-over coffee took a while...I can't see it being an everyday thing like Uptown used to be, but the taste...it was transformative. And it really rocked me off my feet...the level of caffeine must be higher than in a normal cup. 4-stars for a great effort, continued good coffeehouse vibe carried over from the last place, and a really taste muffin. Nice work guys.

    (4)

  • Mel G.

    Based on everyone's reviews I was expectant. Maybe that was the problem. Subpar tables. Less than exciting menu. Small cramped together tables. Friendly staff but nothing special.

    (2)

  • Krysten K.

    Render is adorable! The indoor seating is really cozy, and the back porch is an awesome place to hang out in the spring/summer/fall. I love the iced coffee and the homemade quiche. I had a friend visit from Australia (who takes his coffee very seriously), and he ended up going to Render every morning for the cortado.

    (4)

  • Steve H.

    Excellent pour over offerings using counter culture coffee from various regions, and lots of house-made ingredient, delicious sandwiches. The owner and baristas know the nuances of making a quality cup of coffee, and their attention to detail and customer service is great. Ambiance is great too!

    (5)

  • Jacob M.

    I came here quite a bit on my first visit last year. The staff is very friendly, and loves good coffee. They do a pour over for coffee orders and use Counter Culture for their beans. I only had coffee this visit, but it was great as it was last time. It is a somewhat small shop, but I have never seen it crowded. They also offer several bakery foods that are really good. If I lived in Boston, I would definitely come here regularly to read and to grab a quick breakfast.

    (4)

  • Nisha B.

    Went for a weekend getaway to see Boston prior to the holidays, and stumbled upon this coffee spot. I enjoyed a bagel with tomatoes & cream-cheese and my bf ordered the frittata egg sandwich with bacon(Mmm) it was delicious. To top it off, the cappuccino we ordered were very good!! I would highly recommend this place, it's quick, clean and delicious.

    (4)

  • Chris B.

    Hands down this is the best tasting cup of coffee I've had in Boston. If you want coffee that takes 30 seconds to get but tastes like stale, bitter water hidden by a cup of milk and five packets of sugar then this isn't the right place for you (and the coffee doesn't take 15 minutes to make, just for the record). I won't reiterate what folks have said above, but there's a lot to like. My only complaint (and the only reason it doesn't get a 5-star rating) is that it closes at 7pm and it's not the most comfy place in the world. The latter I realize may change with time as they're open longer and are able to replace the stuff they got from Uptown in the changeover. I'd love to softer things to sit on. I'm happy to have this place in the 'hood and will come back often. . . though I'd be back more if they were open later.

    (4)

  • Samantha B.

    went out to meet a friend at this place. we both randomly picked this place because we wanted somewhere new. we both were happy even if we had only chai lattes. their chai lattes were GREAT! the view was homey if you sit in the back by the windows. had a lot of trees and plants to look at. this is a cute place.

    (4)

  • Jessica A. L.

    $5 coffee may seem ridiculous so don't get sticker shock, it will be worth it. It is delicious. The space is beautiful with outdoor space. My roommates were concerned there wouldn't be outlets, so if you remember that about Uptown, rest assured there are now plenty of outlets, making it a wonderful place to work.

    (5)

  • A K.

    Great coffee, treats, and sandwiches. Good place to study if you can find a seat - it is pretty small. The people who work here are really welcoming and friendly too. My only complaint is that this place is pretty pricey. Sandwiches are $6-$8. I don't have a problem paying $4 for a great cup of coffee though.

    (4)

  • Vanessa W.

    I love this place. The coffee is excellent (once you accept that coffee costs $4, which I haven't because I'm old and crotchety). The little quiche things are also very tasty. Also, there's wifi and the atmosphere is great and I'm actually capable of getting work done here. Also, the people who work there are always very friendly. One tiny negative thing -- a couple of times I've noticed the fumes from the kitchen area are not totally ventilated. But that's rare.

    (4)

  • John M.

    It's a little expensive for coffee, but it's totally worth it. The coffee is amazing and they have very fast unlimited wifi. It's hard to ask for more from a cozy coffee shop.

    (5)

  • Karen M.

    This is my favorite coffee shop in Boston. And the reason is.... the coffee. If you really care about coffee, I think you'll find they care as much as you do. This is the only coffee I will drink black. You see, normally I drink coffee with milk or cream to cut the bitterness. This coffee is so good that adding anything in my view just blurs the flavors and ruins it. I discovered this the first time I came. For some reason I took a tiny sip out of curiousity before putting anything in it, and it was so good I thought, why should I change anything, when this is perfect the way it is? I've never ordered anything else here besides the pourover coffee. It is a huge treat for me whenever I am in the neighborhood to stop here. Although I usually take mine to go, the place itself is pleasant, with a cute seating area and a light, zen vibe, neither dark and rustic like some cafes, nor clinical like a fast food type.

    (5)

  • Stephen S.

    Quiche, machiatto, latte were perfect. They know coffee, there is little reason to look elsewhere if you are close. No complaints...

    (5)

  • Maurice B.

    Excellent coffee brews, especially when they have a special roast. The breakfast sandwich is great, and the service excellent and respectful. One of my favorite breakfast spots in the south end

    (5)

  • Rose D.

    Rosemary frittata with potato IN IT on a multigrain bagel. I want to keep eating this same breakfast sandwich for the rest of my life.

    (5)

  • Sarah A.

    Hands down the best coffee shop in close proximity to Northeastern - and yes, I pretty much have tried them all. The hazelnut latte is something to crave, and the waitstaff is great; makes an attempt to remember your name/ recognize you and your order!

    (5)

  • Thomas C.

    Great pour over coffee and unique breakfast sandwich options like rosemary potato frittata as an 'egg' option. Really cute atmosphere perfect for dining, studying or chatting. Really pretty sun room in the back. Great place all around

    (5)

  • Anabelle D.

    If you live in the South End, this is your place to get coffee. Unique, friendly staff and amazing coffee. What a treat for those that live around the area.

    (5)

  • T N.

    I had heard such rave reviews of this place that I finally had to check it out for myself. Even in the middle of a working day, it was packed. Thankfully, they also have outdoor seating. It's not a tiny shop, but it looks like it could fit at most 20 people. Expensive...yes. Amazing coffee...also yes. Their latte art was pretty good too.

    (5)

  • Sara I.

    Render Coffee... Your space is small, but this is forgivable considering the convenience of your location. What's unforgivable is your lack of ventilation. You perpetually smell of bacon. Your air is thick and smokey with this aromatic that parasitically clings to my clothes and hair. Within fifteen minutes, feeling a headache building, I glance at the exit and wonder why I subjected my nasal passage to this assault. To the folks that work there, you do a great job. Thank you. To the owner/manager, get a proper fan for the love of coffee. Bacon is nice, but this is a hostile takeover inside my lungs. Also, the lids on your iced coffee cups are ill-fitting.

    (3)

  • Arthur S.

    II was just at Render coffee and tea I had a breakfast sandwich egg ham and cheese on a plain bagel toasted and from 1 to 10 I give it a five it wasn't no Charlie's tell you that right now !also they should stick to coffee and tea I'll tell you that!!!! Simmonsbos 1

    (2)

  • Sandy B.

    Coffee was very good, although pricier than nearby competitors. I don't mind paying a bit more for a better tasting Americano...The thing about this place,though, is that it takes a very, l..o..n..g time to get your coffee. So, if you're looking to grab something quick on your way to work, try Madeleine, just down the street... almost as good, and much faster service. Good selection of pastry and breakfast items, too.

    (3)

  • Bohemian R.

    I must open with a disclaimer. I'm an avid connoisseur of espresso which has made me very pretentious of my espresso. one, because I am a child of the burgeoning coffee scene in san francisco this past decade. and two, I was fortunate enough to be a barista for years so I know how espresso should pull, its pour to milk time and the importance of espresso crema. with that said, render is such a nice surprise to the coffee scene. unlike most coffee shops akin to render in boston, very few to none roast their own beans. while render and others in boston source as local as possible they still do a fine job at pouring and it's worth the extra ten minutes to walk there for a cup. but they have a good selection of mem teas, a delightful selection of morning goods for the hungry. some downfalls to render. their location for one, espeically if you are a walk-to-work type like myself. if you have a car, it's worth the drive on your commute. if you need to study, they have ample space indoor and out. their prices are a bit steep (they do no offer discounts for bringing your own cup either, unless maybe I'm not frequent enough to recognize by face). if you don't mind special attention to crafting a drip coffee or your drink, the pace is not for those in a rush.

    (3)

  • Chuck A.

    The coffee was very good. I'm usually a cream and sugar coffee drinker but this was so good I enjoyed it black. They only have one size but every cup is fresh ground and brewed on demand. Food was also excellent. I had a bacon cheddar quiche. It was incredibly moist and fluffy and flaky all at the same time. I wish I had remembered to take a picture. Service: very friendly but a bit slow. Its to be expected I suppose though if every cup is made to order. Looses 1 star for price though. A cup of coffee an a quiche cost me $11. Definitely a bit high.

    (4)

  • Ben S.

    This place took forever to give us our simple order. My frittata sandwich was good but my girlfriends bagel and cream cheese was untoasted and just kinda blah. I wouldn't go back.

    (2)

  • Jahcobie C.

    Render Coffee is located on the second floor. Before you walk in a sticker states that it is "Gay Friendly". Honestly in 2012 if you're a business on the South End Boston area you had better be "Gay Friendly" or you're losing lot of business. Not only by the LGBT Community but also all the hags and supporters. I first discovered this gem while taking a little R & R trip back to beantown about a year ago. Growing up in Boston I thought starbucks was the breaking edge of coffee and it's art. After moving to LA back in 2008 I grew to learn more about the formulaic structures that are practiced to entice even the most anti- coffee consumers (loads of cream and sugar addicts). Now to my real review.. A cafe latte runs about $4, flavored latte $4.50 (hazelnut, vanilla etc..). Pour over's range anywhere $2.50 and up. The beans aren't burnt and the coffee isn't watered down. The atmosphere is perfect for those like me who enjoy a good cup and an assorted array of reading/ writing. I tried the Hazelnut Latte today and am very pleased with the base used which has pieces of hazelnut in it! The milk wasn't hot enough for my taste but take in account I'm looking to over heat in this cold weather landscape especially fresh off a plane from LA. The foam art is absolutely beautiful and I enjoy hearts guzzling down my throat. I look forward to spend more time here and capturing Render Cafe as my nest of writers galore. I will try the food at a later date. I was very pleased to see the care and attention that went into making a wrap while I was waiting for my H. Latte. Overall 4 stars until hopefully next time it'll be 5!!! Happy Holidays

    (4)

  • Reza H.

    Friendly/good service. Nice place to sit and enjoy your delicious coffee (love the sunroom). I had the Full Lox Bagel (with cream cheese, lox, tomato, red onions & capers), which was perfect. AT&T doesn't get good cell signal there, but not worries, they have free WiFi.

    (4)

  • Jessica C.

    So glad I stopped in here during my last whirlwind Boston trip. I wanted to try a new-to-me coffee shop and Yelp led me here. I found my dirty chai delicious, the staff friendly and efficient, and the space comfortable. Price was a bit higher than the national chains but my drink was higher quality than I've had in quite a while. I'd definitely come back.

    (5)

  • Zach R.

    Food is awesome. Coffee is a craft. Owner is an awesome dude. Great place overall. Go here on a sunny day and enjoy the sun patio in the back. It's covered and happens to be a great spot for reading or writing emails.

    (5)

  • Michael L.

    The best coffee in Boston, unfortunately the prices more than reflect that. Everything here is amazing, from the coffee, food to the staff. That said, Compared to their competition, ex. the thinking cup or dwell time, their prices are noticeably higher with regards to serving size. It is essentially 5 dollars for a relatively small latte. I still come here often, just not as often as I would like.

    (4)

  • John V.

    Good Americano! They use counter culture beans out of mass which is cool. I realize that Boston isn't huge into roasting their own beans or is big into the boutique/small batch coffee scene like Portland, Seattle, or New York but select gourmet shops like this do amazing within the lines. I do like the fact that they use all Mass. roasted beans. Good service, quaint atmosphere, good versatile menu, how a gourmet shop should be run. I'd do 5 stars if they roasted their own beans. It's a 4.5 but there's no option for that. ;-)

    (4)

  • Harri S.

    I love me some pour over coffee while gorging myself on a couple of sticky buns in the atrium. I usually come here to do work when I'm working from home or I'm seriously jonesing for a sticky bun. The staff is awesome, the place is neat, they have wifi and they have sticky buns. Alright, I'm done, but seriously. Sticky buns.

    (5)

  • S H.

    I love this place. The coffee is great. I am actually not that picky when it comes to coffee, but I appreciate that the staff doesn't make me feel inferior for being not very coffee savvy. I also love the atmosphere- a cozy place to sit with a great "greenhouse" feel. The croissants are delicious as I am sure many of the baked goods are. I also sometimes see a very cute golden retriever outside here. Five stars!

    (5)

  • Josh K.

    I go to this location at least twice a week and love their coffee selection. They brew it right in front of you and it comes out fresh every time. I am actually able to drink their coffee black and that is usually never the case. I also love the salmon lox sandwich! Their vibe is super chill and I love it. The reason why I am not giving them 5 stars is because they are a little pricey and forgot a couple of my orders a few times. However, I will continue going here every week! And I recommend that you give them a try!

    (4)

  • Azi Z.

    Cute little relaxed working cafe - it reminds me of San Francisco coffee shops (which I definitely miss in beantown) Great coffee, great tea selection, cozy, quiet, very friendly staff. Perfect working cafe with a good number of power outlets. Lovely indoor and outdoor patio - which definitely add to the ambiance. Just the perfect place to get some work done on a Sunday. Not a big fan of their food though.

    (4)

  • Dhru P.

    Great coffee. 5 mins to make but so good. If it was on just coffee it's 5/5. But... I had just received an email for a discount. I walked in to use it but ended up not working. The cashier: She didn't try too hard to look for a solution. To my surprise, I was asked if I still wanted my coffee. I did as it was great but they didn't want to take the extra steps for a solution. Was asked to pay the full price. Email valid but system not working was the excuse. I won't go here again. Do not believe any email regarding discount you get from them. Lesson learned. Plenty of other great pour over places in Boston. Thanks for a wonderful coffee though.

    (2)

  • Andrea P.

    Great coffee, great service! Super accommodating bunch but they forget to bring my coffee from time to time. A little pricey but the atmosphere is so perfect for coffee dates/breaks/meetings that I can't help but always go there.

    (4)

  • Coco B.

    Salmon bagel, exquisite coffee, gorgeous atrium for lounging at morning and afternoon tea. A neighborhood treasure.

    (5)

  • Natalie R.

    Absolutely excellent pour over coffee. Best I've had yet in Boston. And you will pay for it; I'm talking $3+ for a coffee. I do not frequent this place because of the price, but when in the mood for a coffee splurge, this is the place. I've also splurged ($15+) on bags of Counter Culture beans here for heavenly at-home coffee making. Can't comment too much on the indoor seating, as I always walk out with my coffee.

    (5)

  • Night O.

    Very fruity ethiopian single origin espresso, relaxed feel and good seating... they pull really long shots (34 grams) but seem serious... local roaster and also counter culture...

    (5)

  • David Y.

    Took my first trip to Render in search of a better coffee and Lox sandwich than the place down the street from my apartment. Render DID NOT disappoint. Everything about here was good: service, atmosphere, food and coffee. The Lox sandwich that both my girlfriend and I had was amazing. It tasted extremely fresh and the bagel (everything) was thin and very tasty. As a big fan of lox bagel sandwiches it's a compliment for me to say that this is one of the best I've had. The coffee was amazing as well. Highly recommended, and will go back..

    (5)

  • Liz B.

    Do yourself a favor and pour out that garbage-water that you tote to work each morning, be it in travel mug, styrofoam cup, or Camelback. Just stop it. Do you want to drink coffee made by folks who know coffee? Do yeh?? Places like this - that offer a quality product produced with quality customer service - are few and far-between. Not to mention the fact that, try as you might, you won't find better coffee in the greater Boston area. Nothing to be done.

    (5)

  • Joanna H.

    Currently here at Render. Just demolished half a Chicken Caesar Wrap and half a Breakfast Sandwich (perks of travelling in duos). If you're looking for a refreshing, simple lunch, go for the Chicken Caesar Wrap with roasted chicken, fresh tomatoes & avocados and feta cheese. If you're looking for a flavor explosion in your mouth... I'd have to say go for the Breakfast Sandwich. The rosemary lingers in your mouth, occasionally accompanied by the fatty, smokey sweetness of the bacon. Plus an everything bagel? Unbelievable. Now I'm drinking their famous Hazelnut Latte and especially enjoying the nutty grains that add a special texture. Super yummy, I need to savor this. Last thing: Get a "Dis-Loyalty Card." To get a free drink, you'll have to visit all 8 of the participating independent cafes around Boston. Participating cafes include Pavement, Voltage, Sip, etc.

    (5)

  • T. L.

    If u r not human until your first dose of quality product - then Render Coffee is it! Aroma, Color, Taste- it has it all. Best espresso I've had in Boston hands down.

    (4)

  • Jenny P.

    Excellent coffee!! Worth the trip. Only complaint is how slow the service is.....coffee is not hot by the time they call your name. Price of being popular with lines...But very flavorful. Maybe they need to get the system down with the baristas?! Cute spot, but haven't been able to get a seat on the weekends to hang in.

    (5)

  • Runar B.

    The last couple of times I've been here the espresso has not been good. It's had that overly oily quality and diesel flavor that you get at Pavement. It must be the roast they're using lately.

    (3)

  • Julia L.

    I've been here a few times and each time I love it a little more. It wins out over the coffee places on Newbury Street due to 1) spaciousness - huge area in the back with outdoor seating 2) quiet - most people here are studying so it's a lot calmer than busy Back Bay 3) service - these people get your names and bring your coffee/ food to you rather than having to cluster by the register 4) internet - fastest web at a cafe I've been to; I can actually stream movies here! The drinks: Drip coffee - one of the few coffees that I can drink black because it's not too bitter or overwhelming while still having the full coffee flavor. Cappuccino - another winner, light and foamy Hot chocolate - way too sweet for me, but they do use real chocolate Food: Breakfast sandwich - simple egg, bacon, cheese on a bagel. Personally, for a dollar more, the quiche is much more worth it and more delicious. Quiche - comes in bacon or goat cheese. It's freshly made so it takes about 10-15 min for them to bring it out, but it's SO GOOD. Pretty filling too, good for breakfast or a light lunch. Basically, I'm in heaven here. A bit pricey, yes, but there's not really a cafe within a 3 mile radius that doesn't charge the same price. For the quality of food and peaceful atmosphere, it's more than worth it.

    (5)

  • gary g.

    F-ing excellent cappuccino! Best I had on the East Coast by far. As good as Seattle, serious barristas.

    (5)

  • Michelle H.

    Great local coffee shop with delicious options. I'm not a coffee drinker, but their hot chocolate and maple oatmeal scone are worth going for! The space is clean and bright, the employees are friendly, and the prices may be a bit high but it's expected for the area and product.

    (5)

  • Kyle W.

    This place is always crowded, so come in morning, early afternoon, or after 6 if you want a seat

    (4)

  • Orianne G.

    Render has some pretty good coffee. Not the best I've ever had, but not too bad either. I ordered a vanilla latte and it was pretty good, but the grind on their espresso was too fine as I had tons of little bean bits in my cup. The coffee also tasted slightly bitter/over roasted, but that may have just been an off cup. I've only been there once so I don't know if this is the standard taste. There's a really cute little sun room in the back of the shop that looks like a great place to spend some time on your computer (at least that's what everyone in that room was doing), but it's pretty small so there wasn't any space for me to sit back there. I ended up sitting in the front of the cafe at the bar against the window, but wasn't able to stay for a long time since there wasn't a plug near my seat up there. It's pretty pricey for coffee (just under $5 for an in-house vanilla latte), but if I'm in the neighborhood I'll probably stop by again.

    (3)

  • Cole G.

    The coffee I got when I ordered a flat white was good, but wasn't a flat white. Quiche was great.

    (4)

  • K. Brooke Z.

    The straws seem wider here...my delicious chair seems to disappear in an instant! It could be the great blend of spices and frothy top, however. My first time here was for breakfast. Between me and my friends, we devoured most of the breakfast menu. The quiche was pretty and good. Not too eggy and the goat cheese was a nice touch. I got a blueberry muffin, toasted and it was good, and my sister's egg sandwich looked (and tasted) great. This place would get five stars from me if it weren't for the price. I know you're paying for the location, but a simple breakfast for two with drinks can get pricey. This is less of a grab-and-go place and more ambiance definitely. If you bring a laptop that isn't mac, be prepared to feel a bit misplaced. Happy caffeinating!

    (4)

  • SaraLee C.

    Pretty expensive for a cafe. Not sure if the cost is worth the quality of the overall experience (crowded and loud). I may try it again, but, not in the near future.

    (3)

  • x j.

    Wanting to experience a local coffee place while visiting Boston, my friend and I ventured to Render, which was down the street from where we were staying. This place was one of my favorites that I visited during my entire trip. The coffee (my iced coffee was delicious, and my friends had the iced latte and soy chai latte and said they were very good), the pastries (the almond and chocolate croissants were SO GOOD and fresh) and the service (everyone was so polite, which was a nice change of pace from some of the rude Northerners we encountered) were exceptional. We liked it so much that we went back the next morning before catching our return trips home. I highly recommend Render if you are in town!

    (5)

  • Stephen P.

    I'm almost afraid to say this is the best coffeehouse in Boston. Thats because I'm selfish and don't want Render to get more crowded than it already does. But it looks like fellow yelpers have already let the secret out. The reviews and ratings speak for themselves. Besides the coffee, the best part of render is their amazing staff. They'll be happy to explain the origins of their coffee, their brewing methods, everything. Their regular pour over coffee is great, but their hazelnut latte is spectacular. They contain coffee grinds which may surprise some, but I found it to provide good texture to the drink. The atrium is a great place to study, and during the summer they open up their back porch!

    (5)

  • Kaleigh H.

    Great selection, and they really know and concentrate on their coffee and teas. Worth a short walk if you aren't in the area.

    (5)

  • Breanna B.

    I inadvertently walked into one of the best coffee shops in Boston (and most other cities for that matter). We were heading out in the early morning to get on the road to NY after a great long weekend in Boston. However, it was vital we had coffee before we hopped in the car. I saw the sign as we were driving down the road and yelled, "pull over!" to my boyfriend because this looked like a place that knew the meaning of caffeine. Boy, was I right. We walked in to see the baristas handily pouring single serve coffees in the fancy contraptions I've read about in New York Times (of course, I can't remember the terminology). But I know it's good. The staff was so friendly, welcoming us as we walked in. We quickly placed our order and let them get to work. We both ordered lattes and sesame bagels toasted with cream cheese. Honestly, this espresso was fantastic - I knew I would be energized for the 6 hour ride. Oh yeah, and a fresh squeezed OJ was in order so Willy could get the Vitamin C he craved. While we waited for our bagels, I got to peer into the back area of the building which had a gorgeous patio studded with greenery. I instantly wished I lived in Boston and could spend my Saturday afternoons there. Alas, my dreams were shattered as I grabbed my bagel and hopped into the car to head back to good ol' Rochester, NY.

    (5)

  • K.C. K.

    I've wanted to try Render for a long time. As a Counter Culture devotee I was excited to see Render serves it and gets such high ratings. Our experience was great; most importantly my latte was fabulous, if a touch sweet. We decided to have lunch there and the bacon cheddar (!) quiche was really wonderful, while Rich's chicken wrap was pretty mediocre. The service was excellent and they have high chairs, something I didn't expect of a place this size/hipsterness. Parking would be a huge bonus here, as would about triple the space. Oak Square, while most definitely not the South End, would be thrilled to have a first-rate coffee shop. Just saying...

    (4)

  • Jenny Z.

    I first discovered this place a couple years ago. I really like this place as a whole. It has great lattes, tea, quiches, etc. I need to try more of their drip coffees. I also like that they have a variety of different size tables--some inside, some in a little sunroom, and some out on a patio! One problem with this place is that it seems that too many other people also love this place. Though I admit I have sat here for hours, it can get hard to find a seat, especially when the weather isn't great and the patio isn't an option. They do provide free wi-fi which is awesome! The staff here has also always been friendly. They bring your food to your table after you order and they have always been nice when I asked for extra water for my teapot.

    (5)

  • Pratik P.

    My experience here lasted all of 3 minutes (I had a takeout coffee), so here's what I gathered by a quick scan: - REALLY cool vibe. I'd come work/study here in a heartbeat. It just seemed so different than any other place in Boston (or DC, where I'm from). - Friendly coffee dudes. They were chill (too chill actually). Think of someone flyin' high... like that. But I'm sure they weren't. And that's it. I hope this helps!

    (4)

  • John S.

    Espresso was excellent. Staff knowledgeable about the coffee that was served. Good environment for working. Wifi was excellent.

    (4)

  • Kelly M.

    Best coffee joint in town. One word: pour over coffee. The salmon lox is serious too. Only thing is, be prepared to wait for a seat!

    (5)

  • Harris T.

    Nice terrace and coffee & food, but the staff could be nicer. Beware of Wifi connection, it is terrible, better not go there for important Internet work sessions.

    (3)

  • Wes P.

    Beat coffee and hot chocolate in Boston! I've been several times now and they always deliver quality service and products.

    (5)

  • Armin F.

    Lived in Boston for 4 years and this was the place I have been looking for. Super chill atmosphere, indoor 'patio' with sun roof and a cute little outside seating area in the back. Very characteristic for Boston's South End, if you want to just hang out and catch up on some reading or just relax, this place can be highly recommended....check it out

    (5)

  • Rayan D.

    I live a few doors down and LOVE this place. Their coffee is great, staff is friendly, they use the latest technologies at the register, and the place itself is really nice. I only have two issues: 1) Hours - they close pretty early; places like The Thinking Cup stay open until at least 10PM. I'm studying for the GMAT and always looking for a great spot after work but unfortunately Render is always closed by the time I start. 2) Price - call me crazy but they seem a bit pricey for their location. It's on the edge of Roxbury and a bit out of the way unless you're passing through the Mass Ave T stop or Columbus Ave - why do they charge as if they're on Newbury? Otherwise, keep up the good work, Render!

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :7:00 am - 7:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Breakfast
    Parking : Street
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : No
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : No
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : No
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : Free
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : No
    Caters : No
    Good for Working : Yes

Render Coffee

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