laredo coffee tour

Laredo coffee and mural tour goes digital

LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) - You don’t have to work hard to find some of Laredo’s best sights and flavors.

It’s available at your fingertips.

The Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau announced that their Laredo Coffee and Mural Tour is now on their mobile app.

Nearly sixty shops and landmarks are organized to help keep you busy this summer.

There are some things you can’t find anywhere else.

Local barista Valerie Gonzalez told KGNS about what makes Gloria’s coffee bar particularly unique. “It’s very traditional,” she said. “So for pastries we have conchas. Cafecitos we have chocalito abuelita, mazapan. We try to keep those traditional Mexican flavors that we grew up with.”

The new app is available for both Apple and Android devices.

You may also want to go on a few coffee runs throughout the week—the city’s visitor bureau is giving away a special gift for those that complete the tour at their office located at 101 Salinas Avenue.

For more headlines. click here .

Copyright 2023 KGNS. All rights reserved.

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Eating and Caffeinating Your Way Through Laredo

Embark on a delightful culinary adventure through Laredo, Texas , where mouthwatering Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors come alive in a vibrant and diverse food scene. This border city offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary dishes that cater to various tastes and preferences. Join us as we explore four exceptional dining locations in Laredo that are sure to excite your taste buds and leave you craving more. From street food delights to sit-down dining experiences, this food tour will surely satisfy your appetite for delicious, authentic cuisine.

Taquitos Ravi

At Taquitos Ravi, you can enjoy a taste of authentic Mexican street food in the heart of Laredo. Known for their exceptional taquitos, this bustling eatery has become a local favorite. The succulent and flavorful pork taquitos, served with a side of guacamole and salsa, are a must-try. The friendly atmosphere, speedy service, and reasonable prices make Taquitos Ravi an essential stop on your Laredo food tour.

Venture over to La India , a family-owned restaurant that has been serving delicious Mexican cuisine since 1924. This charming eatery offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and savor their mouthwatering dishes. One of the standout menu items is their famous enchiladas verdes, which features tender chicken smothered in a tangy tomatillo sauce and topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. La India’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional recipes ensures that every dish is packed with flavor. Don’t forget to grab some of their world famous spices before you head out the door. 

Gorilla Smoke & Grill

Gorilla Smoke & Grill is an exciting fusion of Texas BBQ and Mexican flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Known for their melt-in-your-mouth smoked brisket tacos, Gorilla Smoke and Grill has quickly become a local favorite. These heavenly tacos are topped with a refreshing tangy house-made sauce that perfectly complements the smoky meat. The laid-back atmosphere and eclectic menu make this the perfect spot to unwind with friends and family while enjoying a delicious meal.

Hacienda Arandas

With three convenient locations Hacienda Arandas offers a charming and elegant dining experience that combines the best of traditional Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex flair.   Hacienda Arandas’ signature dish, the mouthwatering fajitas mixtas, features a sizzling combination of tender beef, succulent chicken, and juicy shrimp, all marinated and cooked to perfection. Served with a generous helping of rice, beans, and warm tortillas, this dish is perfect for sharing with friends or family. The attentive service, extensive menu, and enchanting atmosphere make Hacienda Arandas an unforgettable stop on your Laredo food tour.

Coffee Time 

After a heftty lunch or dinner, it’s time for some coffee. Embark on a caffeinated adventure through the vibrant city of Laredo, Texas. With its rich blend of Mexican-American culture and a blossoming coffee scene, this border town is the perfect place to explore a range of unique and delicious coffee spots. From organic brews to artsy atmospheres, Laredo offers an exceptional coffee tour that will leave your taste buds tingling and your soul satisfied. Join us as we delve into four of Laredo’s most noteworthy coffee establishments: Organic Man Coffee, Borderland Espresso & Gifts, Cafe Radical, Black and White Coffee House and Dosis.

Organic Man Coffee

Our first stop, Organic Man Coffee, offers a healthy and eco-conscious approach to your daily caffeine fix. With their commitment to sourcing only the finest organic, fair-trade beans, this charming coffee shop ensures a guilt-free and flavorful experience. What sets Organic Man Coffee apart is not only the quality of their beans but also their dedication to environmentally friendly practices and their cozy, welcoming ambiance. Try their signature pour-over or a frothy cappuccino while enjoying the rustic decor and friendly service.

Borderland Espresso & Gifts

Next on our coffee tour is Borderland Espresso & Gifts, a delightful fusion of coffee and culture. This unique establishment boasts a wide array of specialty coffee drinks, locally sourced pastries, and an extensive collection of artisanal gifts from the region. Borderland Espresso & Gifts’ warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with their passion for promoting local artists and crafters, make it an ideal spot to enjoy a carefully crafted latte while browsing through an assortment of handcrafted treasures.

Cafe Radical

Cafe Radical , our third destination, is a hub for Laredo’s creative community. With its eclectic decor and vibrant, artsy vibe, this coffee shop is more than just a place to grab a cup of joe. Cafe Radical serves as a gathering spot for artists, musicians, and thinkers alike. Each sip of their expertly brewed coffee fuels a sense of inspiration and camaraderie. Don’t miss their rotating art exhibits, live music events, and open mic nights, making Cafe Radical a true cultural experience.

Black and White Coffee House

As you continue on your Laredo coffee tour, be sure not to miss the Black and White Coffee House . This charming spot is known for its stylish, monochromatic interior that sets the stage for a truly memorable coffee experience. The black and white theme extends to the menu, where you’ll find a balanced selection of both classic and innovative coffee beverages, as well as delightful tea options.

Our final stop, Dosis , is a sleek, modern coffee bar that prides itself on precision and quality. Each cup of coffee is meticulously crafted using cutting-edge brewing techniques and equipment, resulting in a truly exceptional taste. Their minimalist, contemporary design creates a serene environment for coffee enthusiasts to savor each sip. From the rich and robust espresso to the silky smooth flat white, Dosis elevates the coffee experience to new heights.

Don’t Forget the Sweets

A visit to Laredo’s coffee scene wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Pano’s Bakery for some delectable desserts to accompany your freshly brewed beverages. This family-owned bakery has been delighting the taste buds of Laredo residents and visitors alike for years with their wide selection of irresistible pastries, cakes, and cookies. Each dessert at Pano’s Bakery is crafted with love and care, using high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes. The warm, inviting atmosphere at Pano’s makes it the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth while you savor the rich and flavorful creations of Laredo’s most talented bakers. Be sure to try their famous conchas or scrumptious tres leches cake – they’re the perfect complement to any coffee tour experience.

And that’s a wrap on our favorite places to eat and grab coffee in the historical city of Laredo. We can’t wait to be back soon and check out all the spots we missed. Make sure you check out our blog about our favorite places to stay and play in Laredo. 

A Texan through and through, her passion for the Lone Star State is evident in every word she writes.Hailing from the vast plains of West Texas, Eva has a deep appreciation for the unique blend of tradition and innovation that defines the Texan spirit. Eva crafts articles that celebrate the diverse tapestry of Texas, from its bustling urban centers to its serene rural landscapes.

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The Bucket List Latina

Texas + Beyond

Things to do in Laredo, Texas

March 8, 2023       Leave a Comment

SALUDOS FROM LAREDO, TEXAS

Laredo is located in the south of Texas, right at the Mexican border. It is about 5 hours from Houston, and 2.5 hours from San Antonio and Corpus Christi. 

I remember visiting every year when my family and I would visit Mexico. Overall, Laredo has grown so much from what I remember and I was so excited to explore some of the best things to do in Laredo Texas. 

Thank you for having me  Visit Laredo ! All opinions shared are my own.

THINGS TO DO IN LAREDO

VISIT THE HISTORIC DOWNTOWN – One of my favorite things to do in Laredo was to step back in time and walk around the San Agustin Historic District, the oldest section of Laredo. First, stop by the San Agustin Church, a Gothic structure with a five-story- 141ft bell/clock tower. Then head to the Plaza Theatre building, the only remaining example of the Art Modern style in Laredo.

GO ON A COFFEE TOUR – Support over 12 local coffee shops and participate in The Laredo Coffee Tour. At each stop, get a stamp, and after two stamps, stop by the Visit Laredo office for a free souvenir. Pick up a map at any of the coffee shops on the list, or at the Visit Laredo office. For instance, I had a chance to try  Cafe Radical  which has the cutest coffee shop, and  Gloria’s Coffee  which had an amazing cajeta latte. 

VISIT LAKE CASA BLANCA INTERNATIONAL STATE PARK  – Fish, swim, kayak, water ski, or boat on Lake Casa Blanca. Or grab your hiking shoes or bike and go for a hike, a walk, or a bike ride on the trails. Lastly, make sure you stop at the old museum to see the ruins of Casa Blanca, the original Texas White House.

CROSS THE BORDER INTO MEXICO – Walk or drive across the border and spend a day in Nuevo Laredo. Fun fact: Laredo is home to one of the oldest crossing borders along the Mexico-US border.

WHERE TO EAT

In addition to the items above, eating was also one of my favorite things to do in Laredo! Being so close to the border, it’s no secret that the Mexican food is going to be good! Overall, Laredo has so many restaurants to choose from, and new cuisines continue to be added.

For instance, the restaurants below are the ones I had a chance to try, but I will also be sharing additional ones we didn’t have the opportunity to visit but were highly recommended.

LA REYNERA BAKERY & RESTAURANT  – La Reynera has been around since 1928 serving fantastic breakfast tacos, biscuits, and Mexican baked goods. Above all, I have to say these were some of the best breakfast tacos I’ve ever had, and I absolutely loved the barbacoa tacos. Lastly, I didn’t get to try the biscuits but those were also highly raved about.

TAQUITOS RAVI – I highly recommend getting the Al pastor tacos and the aguas frescas. Pick from one of the several locations around town.

VICA’S DELIGHTS BISTRO  – The perfect place for brunch! It’s super cute and retro inside, and you can pick from an American or Mexican breakfast. I highly recommend the 3 leches pancakes and the chilaquiles with mole.

KAITOD THAI  – It all started as a food truck, and now it is a beautiful Thai restaurant in downtown Laredo. Honestly, it’s one of the most beautiful restaurants I’ve ever been to. I tried some appetizers, some lemonades, and the pineapple fried rice which was off the menu, and everything was delicious! Overall, make sure to make a reservation as it gets busy!

BOLILLOS CAFE  – Choose from an American or Mexican breakfast, including, baked goods. I grabbed lunch to go and tried some of the conchas and they were pretty good! In addition, they also had a toasted concha which I’ve never tried before.

For instance, I heard great things about Las Kekas, La India for their amazing mole, and Scratch Sandwich Company for some amazing sandwiches made from scratch. Lastly, I made a stop at Golondrina Food Park for coffee but didn’t get to try any of the amazing food trucks on site.

Overall, I had such an amazing time in Laredo. I loved the blend of Mexican and American cultures, the history, and the amazing food. I can’t wait for my next visit!

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How to plan the perfect long weekend in Laredo, Texas

When you’re planning a spring getaway with friends, the challenge is finding a destination with something for everyone — and a few surprises to keep it exciting (think: indoor archery and chef-driven food trucks). Deep in the heart of South Texas, Laredo brims with small city cool, fascinating history and delicious eats making it one of best-kept secrets of the Lone Star State.

Sitting on the banks of the Rio Grande, a few miles from the border of Mexico, Laredo truly has it all with a taste of Texas, Mexico and Mex-Tex like no other. You’ll find everything you need for a fun-filled weekend of exploring, relaxing, and reconnecting with nature. Not to mention, plenty of reasons to tack on a few extra days or stay a week.

Here are some picks for an unforgettable, three-day itinerary with your best friends.

Settle into welcoming accommodations, spanning from familiar hotel brands to one-of-a-kind properties. For a bed-and-breakfast filled with charm and quirky details, the Laredo Mansion has been transformed into four unique suites perfect for a girls’ trip. Or, check into the swanky La Posada Hotel in the heart of downtown with two pools and two onsite restaurants. The Rialto Hotel is another boutique hotel housed in a historic building for a mix of old and new.

To kick-start your adventure, choose a coffee stop from one of a dozen venues listed on the self-guided The Laredo Coffee Tour . As an added perk, you can collect stamps at each one and stop by the Visit Laredo office to snag a free souvenir once you’ve got two stamps.

Next, head to La India Packing Co. and Tasting Room Cafe for a tasty lunch in one of Laredo’s most iconic, local gems which first opened in 1924. This nearly 100-year-old shop and eatery sells a wide variety of specialty spices, herbs and seasonings like the must-buy Tejano seasoning.

Next, dive right into fascinating history. Over its 268-year existence, Laredo has lived under the flags of seven nations, including its own short-lived independent republic in 1840. For the history buffs in the group, Laredo’s several historic districts are filled with fascinating stories. The oldest among them, the San Agustin Historic District dates back to 1755 and has the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum worth a stop.

For dinner, Border Foundry serves up one of the best dining experiences in town. Paying homage to the owner’s grandfather who ran a local casting factory in the early 1900s, the menu features traditional American fare with a modern spin.

Wake up and embrace another beautiful day in Laredo with breakfast at La Finca, a casual eatery serving homey, traditional Mexican food along with treats like French toast, waffles, and even brunch burgers.

Now, you’re ready to get a taste of the city’s arty side. There are more than 40 murals dotting the streets of Laredo telling the stories of different neighborhoods and local artists. Among the wall-size artworks, you’ll find several tributes to late-great “Queen of Tejano Music” Selena Quintanilla and odes to local wildlife like the vibrant “Naturalez Viva.”

For lunch, switch gears with Kai Tod Thai Kitchen , the only Thai eatery in Laredo and a beloved spot for its eye-catching presentation and delightful flavors.

Afterwards, mosey on over to ‘IT’ street. There’s so much going on in downtown Laredo, locals simply call Iturbide Street, “IT” Street, for its lively arts and entertainment district. Sip craft beers at the Cultura Beer Garden and stay tuned for events, such as bands and a rock and roll glow bike ride (May 31). Other popular watering holes include House of Whisky and 1971 Social Bar.

For dinner, give another global selection a whirl at Tabernilla, a restaurant offering an authentic taste of Spain with tapas, entrees, desserts and house-made sangria for sharing.

Gear up for an active day at Magnolia Café & Grill , which has earned cult status for its Fruity Pebbles-covered pancakes. Once you’ve fueled up, take a golf getaway to

The Max . This spectacular, par 72 course overlooking the mighty Rio Grande. Great for all levels of player, the layout designed by Robert Trent Jones II winds through century-old mesquite trees and arroyo creeks in rugged landscape. After a relaxing day on the greens, recharge with a chef-driven meal at the Golondrina Food Park . Take your pick of several enticing food trucks and bars serving up pizza, burgers and tacos, among other tasty bites. Opened for dinner Thursday to Sunday and lunch on the weekends, this culinary hotspot has indoor and outdoor seating, including pet-friendly areas. For the newest spot to try, the Comalli Taqueria LRD debuted this February.

To keep your adrenaline going, try stress-busting indoor and outdoor sports that will make you feel like a kid at summer camp. At Laredo Axe House, throw axes with digital interactive targets or head to Arena Archery for an indoor archery range. To soak up natural splendor on the river, rent kayaks or join a four-mile guided tour on the Rio Grande with Neto’s Kayak Rentals .

Finally, unwind after a big day-out with big flavors at a classic, Texas steakhouse. Dubbed “the Best Little Steak House in South Texas,” The Tack Room at La Posada Hotel has been operating since 1982. This legendary eatery specializes in great steaks, seafood and serious margaritas. For a great end to your trip, toast to the good times in Laredo, snap a group pic and make plans for your next time around.

Depending on the dates you plan to travel, be sure to check out Visit Laredo’s event calendar for additional activities and special events to add to your itinerary:

March 25 –  BorderTown Get Down, Presented by Estos Vatos

Bring your cars, trucks, jeeps and motorcycles – Laredo is shutting the streets down for a Night-time Show and Shine Event at the Historic Plaza Theater featuring its amazing neon lights and your sweet ride. A fun event for the whole family and friends, get ready to enjoy live music, local vendors and great food. All cars and trucks are welcomed and spectators enter for free. Click h e re to learn more.

March 25 – Laredo Main Street Jamboozie 2023

Making its way back to the Gateway City for the first time in full force since before the pandemic, the 2023 Jamboozie will be a celebration of Tejano Heritage that’s complete with live music, art, food vendors, plenty of fun and more. For the latest Jamboozie news, including ticket sale information, food vendors, the entertainment lineup and more, follow along on Laredo Main Street’s Facebook and Instagram.

April 19 – ZZ Top Raw Whisky Tour Live at Sames Auto Arena  After more than a decade, American rock band ZZ Top returns to the Sames Auto Arena. The show starts at 8:00 p.m. and tickets are available at  Sames Auto Arena  or on  ticketmaster.com .

Laredo Farmers Market  – Third Saturday of every month

A FREE and fun event that’s both pet and family-friendly, the Laredo Farmers Market serves up fresh produce, and then some, on the third Saturday of every month. Farmers unveil their seasonal produce, farm fresh eggs, raw honey, and locally made goods; while bakers present delicious artisan bread, pastries, foods and beverages. There’s live music, beer, brunch-style vendors and entertainment that varies from month to month, including yoga, dances, chef demonstrations and more!

CaminARTe Ar t Walk  –  First Friday of every month

The first Friday of every month sees downtown Laredo come alive with venues offering exhibits, live music, food and more. The walk brings a variety of events each run, sometimes all revolving around a common theme.

Film Club Fridays  –  First and third Friday of every month

Laredo Film Society's Film Club Fridays takes place every first and third Friday of the month and is open to the public! Laredo Film Society is a non-profit organization aiming to cultivate a love for cinematic arts in the South Texas community.

For more things to do, see and eat on a getaway in Laredo, visit https://www.visitlaredo.com/ .

Borderland Espresso & Gifts

Hours updated 2 weeks ago

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120 W Village Blvd

Laredo, TX 78041

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I always love supporting local! Having to travel for work, I get tired of eating at franchises... I learned that early on in my travels. This is why I got into Yelp in the first place. This coffee place was a great find. The hotel I stayed at had a tear off pad of local coffees and a self taken coffee tour in support of Laredo tourism. The vibe was great, and the baristas were friendly. I asked for a cortado which was not on the menu and they had no problems making it. That's when I know they are a real barista. The baked items are self serve and included biscotti and muffins. Every ounce of this coffee spot oozed creativity and uniqueness. There was so much to take in and absorb. Enjoyed this spot and encourage a try to anyone traveling into Laredo for work. Will definitely be back.

See all photos from Melanie J. for Borderland Espresso & Gifts

There's no sugarcoating my feelings for Borderland; an absolute wonderful coffee shop where you can get tasty coffee, pastries, listen to eccentric music, and purchase unique gifts. Finding the place thanks to YELP, I went here nearly every day during my week 1 Laredo work trip where they made my peppermint latte perfectly every time. You'll find yourself laughing, cringing, then laughing again at the display of mugs and artifacts with their creative sayings and IDGAF attitude. I was so captivated upon seeing it that I bought a mug from them since the message about sarcasm on the mug called my name. I may purchase another one there next time I find myself in Laredo. Impressive Borderland!

See all photos from Victor H. for Borderland Espresso & Gifts

I'm so glad Borderland Espresso decided to make Laredo its home! Such a cute spot where you can order coffee and sit with friends or whatnot. The owner and staff are really friendly and welcoming. The drinks are always fantastic! I highly recommend the hot chocolate, iced mocha, and mocha frappe (so far). Skip Starbucks, and check out this place instead. Spend locally!

See all photos from Heather G. for Borderland Espresso & Gifts

This place is marvelous! I totally love the vibe & playlist. The owner is extremely sweet ,and the flavors - THE FLAVORS !!! I highly recommend you give this gem a try as I can assure you will not regret it !!!

White chocolate mocha & place

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Cute place very nice ladies that serve.... and I liked their drip coffee!!! And I am super picky.

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