Listen, I’ve lived in Austin for 17 years – that’s pre-boom! So, I have seen a lot of amazing coffee shops come and go. From the early days of the original Austin Java and Mozart’s to the current roasting boom—I’ve developed a pretty high bar for what makes a ‘unique’ coffee shop in Austin. Thankfully, the north side of Austin is really coming up in the coffee scene.
TL;DR review of Terrible Love Coffee Shop by a true Austinite
FAQ about Terrible Love Coffee
Today, I visited a coffee shop called Terrible Love in Austin, Texas. This one is a little more Central Austin than North Austin, but it is north of campus and downtown, so I’m going to put it on this blog. I personally love coffee shops, and Austin, Texas, has always been known for having some very unique and interesting spots. We have such a great choice when it comes to coffee in the city, and North Austin is no exception.
I was in the area today near Lady Bird Lake, and I had to go to Terrible Love again. What I love about this coffee shop is that the location is actually so unique. It’s off of 40th Street in Hyde Park – just barely east of Central Market. When you drive up, you wouldn’t really know it’s there. There is plenty of parking, which can be unusual for this part of Austin, and I really appreciated the plentiful open parking spots. There is a cute little sign giving you a hint that something is off to the side.
When you look at the building, it kind of looks like a brick garden shed.
There are these little exhaust areas where I’m assuming some coffee roasting happens.
Once you go up to the walk-up window, you will order your amazingly unique coffee or tea drink, and then you will wait.
If you want to stay, there are some cute little picnic tables in a partially shaded area for you to sit and work, or hang out, or just wait for your drink.
It’s by a unique little music auditorium called Rosettes, and I really want to visit there. Both times I’ve gone to Terrible Love, I thought to myself, “I really need to get on their mailing list.”
One of the things I have ordered both times I’ve been to Terrible Love Coffee is the Grapefruit Brown Sugar Latte, and I absolutely recommend it. It is really delicious. I like my latte to have a nice strong flavor, and this did not disappoint with that. I do love a good, unique flavor combination. The combination of the grapefruit with the brown sugar was just right. The flavor is in the direction of a chocolate orange. You have the strong coffee flavor, the creaminess of your milk, and then that little citrus, almost herbal overtone.
If I go back, I need to know what I should try next. Should I try a matcha tea latte? Should I try one of their other unique drinks? You tell me!
TL;DR: Terrible Love Coffee
- The Vibe: A “hidden gem” walk-up window located in a repurposed brick building (near Rosettes music auditorium).
- Location: Off 40th St (North-Central Austin). Unassumingly cool with plenty of free parking.
- The Standout Drink: The Grapefruit Brown Sugar Latte. It’s a strong, sophisticated mix of citrus and sweetness—perfect for those who like unique flavor profiles.
- Seating: Partially shaded outdoor picnic tables. Great for a quick work session or a hang-out. Also great for kids!
FAQ
Is there parking at Terrible Love? Yes! Unlike many Central Austin spots, there is actually plenty of open parking right near the building. Look for the cute little sign off 40th Street that points you toward the shop.
What is the seating like? It is a walk-up window service with an outdoor seating area. There are picnic tables in a partially shaded area, which is a nice spot to wait for your drink or get some air while you work.
What should I order if I like strong coffee? The lattes here have a nice, robust coffee flavor. The Grapefruit Brown Sugar Latte is highly recommended if you want something unique that doesn’t mask the taste of the espresso.
Is it close to anything else? It is located right by Rosettes, a unique music auditorium. It’s also a convenient stop if you are visiting nearby or coming back up north from the Lady Bird Lake area. Terrible Love is just east of Central Market in Hyde Park.
Is it family-friendly? Since it’s an outdoor walk-up window with picnic tables, it’s a very casual spot to bring kids or even your dog while you grab a coffee.