For truck drivers, a solid cup of coffee isn’t just a pick-me-up—it’s a ritual. That first sip can set the tone for the entire day, whether you’re clocking in for a long haul or cruising through the early morning hours.
We asked drivers in the Truck Drivers USA community:
“Where’s the best place for a good cup of coffee in each state?”
Their answers didn’t disappoint. From classic truck stops to local hidden gems and homemade brews, here’s what real drivers across the country are sipping on.
Minnesota: Petro in Clearwater
Kevin Minder gave high praise to the Highlander Grogg at the Petro in Clearwater, Minnesota.
“Add the bakery and you have deliciousness in one stop.”
Sounds like the perfect combo to start a cold morning on the road.
Texas: Dulcédo Coffee in Richmond
Randy Paiz recommends the Mayan Mocha Latte from Dulcédo Coffee in Richmond, Texas.
“Oh my, my, my! Perfect mix of espresso, spicy & sweet!”
When Randy is back on the road, it’s all about Pilot/Flying J’s fresh ground coffee—a dependable favorite.
Florida: 7-Eleven in Fort Myers
Adrian Edwards pointed to a trusted stop in Fort Myers—the 7-Eleven on Lucket Road. It might not be flashy, but when it hits, it hits right.
Nationwide Favorites from the Road
Some truck stops and gas stations earned national shoutouts from multiple drivers:
- Pilot Flying J – Consistently called out by drivers like Valerie Faruzzi and Randy Paiz for fresh, reliable coffee.
- Kwik Trip – A solid option in the Midwest. Steve Cherney recommends their Breakfast Blend.
- QuickTrip – Another favorite among drivers like Eri O Lara.
- Circle K – Mentioned by Jeff Self as a dependable stop for a good cup.
- McDonald’s – Simple, consistent, and easy to find. Tommy Petrey and Martha Lemos both gave McCafé their stamp of approval.
- Waffle House—Arturo Castaneda and Eddie Poindexter agree that Waffle House coffee always hits the spot for those who like their coffee with a side of breakfast.
Connecticut: Homemade “Super Coffee” in Stamford
Bob Boss gave a local twist:
“I make good ‘Super Coffee’ in Stamford, CT, if ever in the area.”
Sometimes the best brew is the one made with pride.
Coffee at Home or in the Cab
A lot of drivers swear by their own coffee setups—and honestly, who can blame them?
- Jimmy McTwomitch: “The Keurig in Jimmy’s kitchen.”
- Barry Laite: McCafé Keurig pods in the truck, paired with Cinnabon Coffee Cream.
- Jose Ribeiro, Kathy Smith, Monique Van Der Putten, Grace C Mock, Dean Sander, Frank Keil, and Janet Folino all agree—the best coffee is at home (or wherever they’re parked).
Bonus DIY Hack
Joseph Clayson might’ve shared the simplest hack for iced coffee lovers on the go:
“Walmart. Black Starbucks concentrate over ice.”
It’s quick, affordable, and doesn’t require a drive-thru.
Final Sip
Drivers know their coffee. Whether it’s a bold roast from a major truck stop, a latte from a small-town café, or a homemade brew in the cab, one thing is clear—coffee keeps this industry moving.
Join the conversation with thousands of other drivers who get it. Share your go-to brew, swap road stories, and stay connected with folks who live life on the road.
