When most people think of Saturday nights in Prescott, Arizona, they usually think of the saloons and crowds of Whiskey Row, of swaggering bachelor parties, the haze of cigarettes and whatever they’re vaping, and another cover band playing “Mustang Sally” again. However, on this particular Saturday night, I am just a little further down Gurley Street at Cove Cafe, attending the Prescott Poetry Meeting, and it’s the first time I really feel accepted by a community. Within minutes of arriving, I’m sitting at a table, laughing with four other women I’ve only just met as if we’d been friends for years. Occasionally, I look over my shoulder toward the bar. I don’t know why. It might be the sound of loud conversation of old friends nearby or the smile of the hot bartender who occasionally stops to listen to the open mic readings.
This cloister of community and art was molded after the vision of Joe LaBate and Trisha Hughes when they took over the Cove Cafe in December 2025. They didn’t want to run another drive-thru express coffee shop. They wanted something that felt a little out of the ordinary, organic and quirky, comfy yet fresh. A place that truly represented the weirdness of Prescott, as well as a place where locals could relax and socialize. Whether you want to take time to brainstorm your next great idea, unleash your creativity alongside new friends you have yet to meet, or sit at the bar and discuss life over a hot or cold drink, the Cove is the place for you.
Scanning the menu, you’ll find all of your standard coffee staples, but there is more than just Americanos and the best espresso in town. The mocktails and cocktails are a refreshing afternoon or evening drink to round out your day. Friday and Saturday, they’re open until 8:30, “or until whenever people leave,”says LaBate. My personal favorite mocktail, the Overthinker (hibiscus tea, peach puree, pineapple, lemon, and coconut water), is a beautiful pick-me-up and pairs well with any of Cove Cafe’s yummy sandwiches. Also, they have a brie plate.
Each barista and bartender adds their own personality, unique twist, and know-how when it comes to making variations of old favorites. Lily crafted the first hot matcha I ever loved; her addition of lavender and white chocolate tasted like a smooth and creamy Dubai chocolate in a cup. Nate can often be found creating new drink concoctions and blends, and can make a delightful variation of your favorite coffee drink to order. Kat is the definition of “coffee girl.” Her customer service is outstanding and she loves making pourovers. While I need to remain impartial when it comes to declaring which baristas are the best, Trisha and Joe have no problem claiming that their bartenders and baristas are the best in Prescott.
From weekly performances of local musicians to merchandise supporting local authors and artists, Cove Cafe continues to grow. Already dreaming and planning for the future, the team at Cove Cafe enjoys learning and focusing on the new journey directly in front of them. Joe says, “We try to be the best that we can and hope Prescott will see that we’re trying our best to take care of our customers and baristas.” He also adds, “I know we are crazy, but we love this town and our coffee shop and hope we can grow to someday be the best… We know we have a ways to go, but hopefully our passion shines and the community sees that.”
Stop by Cove Cafe and find out why it’s Prescott’s Cozy Hidden Gem for Coffee Lovers. Make sure to tell them Traveling Coffee Girl sent you.
Keep the stories and the coffee flowing through Buy Me a Coffee.
Cove Cafe
1446 W. Gurley St.
Prescott, AZ
Telephone: (928)277-1054
Hours: Monday-Thusday : 7:30 AM-4:30ish PM
Friday and Saturday 7:30 AM-8PM
Sunday 7:30 AM-2PM
You can Find Cove Cafe on Facebook and InstagramFriday & Saturday
7:30 AM – 8 PM
Sunday 7:30 AM-2 PM
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