Even though the cooler weather is taking its time to arrive, it is safe to say that fall is here. It is time for leaf piles, football-filled weekends, and to savor all the flavors of the season. Cookeville is the perfect place to do just this, with its unique variety of locally owned cafes and bakeries. Whether you are in the mood for something tried and true or are looking for something new, we promise you will find a treat to love this autumn.

Of all the drinks on a café’s fall menu, pumpkin will always be featured in some way. Traditionally, this seasonal staple takes on three forms. This includes the pumpkin spice latte, of course. With its robust flavors and ability to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort, whether enjoyed hot or iced, it is not difficult to understand why this beverage is so popular. A pumpkin white chocolate mocha, on the other hand, is for those who prefer sweeter flavors but still want to partake in the fall fun. Finally, there is the pumpkin chai latte, which provides a delicious twist on a well-loved drink. The pumpkin flavor complements the cinnamon in chai, creating a delicious combination. All three of these fall favorites can be found at any coffee shop in Cookeville.

In addition to these classics, seasonal menus from different bakeries and cafés can also include unique creations. We have provided some of our favorite fall-themed novelties from cafes in Cookeville.

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, then you have to try Sweater Weather at either location of Poet’s. You would think that this blend of maple, vanilla, and cinnamon would result in a sweet treat, but instead, they create a delightfully rich flavor. More bold coffee concoctions can be found at Vertical with The Campfire. This latte, comprised of homemade chocolate sauce and toasted marshmallow syrup, will transport you to a cool night spent by the campfire making s’mores.These are just two unique creations featuring robust fall flavors, and there are many more to try in Cookeville.

Besides pumpkin, salt is another fall favorite flavor. If you’re craving something salty, Red House Coffee’s The Scotti might be the perfect drink for you because it offers a distinct flavor combination of brown butter toffee and sea salt caramel. The Lovely Brew, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional approach to savory flavors with its Salted Caramel Macchiato. This creamy yet salty beverage is best enjoyed hot on chilly days. Which savory beverage do you think you would most enjoy? 

If you prefer sweet flavors over savory ones, you will enjoy these fruity drinks. Cookeville’s Soul Craft offers a coffee called Golden Hour. This new addition to their fall menu evokes memories of a refreshing autumn day spent in an apple orchard. The beverage is crafted with Soul Craft’s homemade apple syrup, your choice of milk, and espresso. The Exceptional Bean continues the theme of fruity flavors with the Berry Lavender Latte. While not comprised of typical fall flavors, the perfect mix of floral and sweet notes is something you simply have to try. Flavor profiles like this showcase the immense talent and creativity of our local cafes.

Their ingenuity extends to baked goods as well. Just like coffee shops, bakeries also have seasonal menus. Jaime’s Eats & Sweets, a locally owned establishment, is one that provides a variety of treats in an assortment of fall flavors. One of our favorite seasonal items at this bakery is their delicious pumpkin roll, which features decadent cream cheese icing rolled between spongey pumpkin cake. Cookeville’s The French Cookie offers a variety of fall-inspired macarons, where pumpkin takes on another form. These featured flavors include caramel apple, pumpkin spice latte, white chocolate pumpkin, s’mores, and pumpkin cheesecake tart. Regardless of your cravings, Cookeville’s bakeries and cafes are ready to deliver your favorite fall treats. All that is left is to decide what you are going to try first.