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One of the main perks of being a freelance writer is the flexibility that comes with being your own boss. For the most part, you get to work when you want, and where you want.

Working from a different environment (with proper COVID-19 safety measures) and getting a change of scenery can be the perfect spark for your creativity. Working from a café can be a great chance to interact with others and make some new freelance friends, and if the café does a top-notch latte or cinnamon roll, then that’s just a bonus, isn’t it?

When looking for a perfect new spot to work from, look for these essentials:

- Wi-Fi access

- Easily accessible electrical outlets

- Plenty of table space

- Comfortable seating

With the above in mind, we’ve pulled together a list of some of our favorite places to work around freelance hotspots, including New York City, California, and Philadelphia.

All information is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of writing. This is not a sponsored article and neither Dinghy nor our staff has received any kind of promotional gifts or payments for the businesses mentioned in this article.

The best freelancing spots in New York

Freehold
45 S 3rd Street, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Café open 8am-6pm daily

While some coffee shop owners may give you a glare when you walk in with your laptop bag, Freehold is aimed specifically at working professionals. The award-winning coffee shop boasts an 8,600 square-foot space, so you shouldn’t struggle to get somewhere to perch. And if you’re up for some fun after the workday is done, the space transitions from a work-by-day café to a party scene at night, with trivia nights every Wednesday and regular comedy and music nights.

Think Coffee
Various locations, NY

Hours vary

Think Coffee has ten locations in Manhattan, as well as one in Williamsburg. If you like the menu, you could have a weekly rotation to work through them all. How’s that for a change of scenery? These shops are usually busy with coffee-lovers on laptops, so chances are you aren’t going to be the only freelance writer there.

Gossip Coffee
37-04 30th Ave, Astoria, NY

Open 8am-6pm daily

If you have exhausted your favorite playlists on Spotify and are craving a little more action, Gossip Coffee may be the perfect place for you. Serving up coffee, food, pastries and cocktails, it’s well-known for its upbeat atmosphere and ambiance.

Top cafés for freelancers in California

Eightfold Coffee

1294 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, USA

Open 7am-5pm daily

Eightfold Coffee is described as a ‘minimalist, industrial’ space, perfect for getting your freelance work done in a calm environment. It’s popular with the locals, with customers raving that they “love everything about this place — the coffee, the space, the vibe, the service. Favorite coffee shop to get some work done at.”

Muddy Paw Coffee LA (Eagle Rock)
4610 Eagle Rock Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90041

Open 7am-7pm daily

If your favorite co-worker is a four-legged friend, you might think you are limited on a working space. Well, both you and your pup would be very welcome at Muddy Paw Coffee. There are two locations in LA, but if you head to the one on Eagle Rock Boulevard, there is a dog park out back where they can play while you work on the outdoor patio, complete with free Wi-Fi and outlets.

Verve Coffee Roasters
2101 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94114

Open 8am-4pm daily

Verve has everything you need for the day: comfy couches, free Wi-Fi, great coffee and communal group tables, if you’re up for making some new friends for the day. Note that power outlets may be limited, so make sure that you come with your laptop fully charged (and a power bank if you are planning on being there all day).

Buzz-worthy freelance working spaces in Philadelphia

ReAnimator Coffee

Various locations in Philadelphia

Hours vary, check the website for details

An award-winning roaster, ReAnimator Coffee’s delicious drinks are what bring people through the door. The low-key, relaxed vibe at each of its locations around Philadelphia is what makes them want to sit down and stay awhile — and makes it a perfect spot for typing the day away.

One Shot Coffee
217 W. George Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19123

Open 7am-3pm daily

One Shot Coffee has a drool-worthy breakfast menu with a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options. Pop upstairs and you will find a library where you can set up shop, work and get the inspiration you may need.

Elixr Coffee
Various locations in Philadelphia

Hours vary, check the website for details

With four locations around Philadelphia, Elixr Coffee has big tables, great music and free Wi-Fi. The interior has a rustic aesthetic for a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great space to grab a drink and get that proofing done.

Weigh in! What’s your favorite spot for freelancing? Head over to Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn and join the conversation.