Southern Shores Coffee — Restaurant in Gulf Shores

Popped in here while the fam was getting donuts next door to get a "fancy coffee."

The inside is very basic but has some beachy vibes going for it. The barista was polite and friendly; I enjoyed making some brief small talk with her while she made my drink.

I was hoping they'd have some kind of specialty latte or house-made concoction, but the menu mostly consists of standard coffee beverages and then a small list of flavor add-ons you can have.

I'm someone who likes a little coffee in my dessert (lol), so I tend to go for these more fanciful creations. I did my best to recreate something I'd like so I opted for an iced espresso latte with mocha and mint flavor add-ins. I usually like a peppermint mocha.

The coffee came out quickly. I kind of liked the pretty green streaks of mint flavoring. However, the taste was just....okay? Strong on peppermint, weak on chocolate, strong on coffee, weak on sweetness. I won't call it bad because I realize a lot of people like their coffee this way, but unfortunately I'm too froufrou and prefer another...let's say "style" of coffee.

If you like a coffee-forward coffeeshop this place may definitely be it for you. For me, it...

I ordered an iced coffee. It came to me warm, barely any ice in it and the milk was sitting on the counter as we arrived. It tasted awful. I threw it away.

Response to owner: In response to learning that the milk was recently used I can understand why my comment could be unnecessary rude. My drink was warm. I ordered an iced coffee. I would hope that it would be understood that an individual might think the milk was left out for a longer period of time if their drink came to them warm. Also there was no attempt from the barista to put the milk away after she helped us as she went straight to her phone. I find it deeply disappointing that we are bashed as “outrightly rude and negative” because of our attention towards the little girl. We waved and smiled politely at the baby I don’t see how this is considered rude. We were trying to be respectful. Also this has nothing to do with my original comment. I only commented on the quality of the coffee. I hope that in the future your customer review responses are more respectful. Thank you...

Southern Shores is THE place to go to get a variety of locally roasted beans. Not beans roasted elsewhere and packaged for the shop (aka "private label"--which Southern Shores Coffee will do for other places). The couple I tried were solid. Note, I am not an added-flavor guy so I have no idea how any of the flavored roasts would be -- why would you do that to coffee! JK, to each his (or her) own. There are other great places in the area if you are wanting more of the cafe vibe (or gelato, more food choices, or a cuter atmosphere) but for coffee beans and great coffee, grab beans here. I tried the drip, which was good. Cannot comment on espresso base this time around so will need a return trip for that. Also, Finger Lickin' Good donuts is right next door, so you...