Words and Photos by Grace Hurley
Tucked into the vibrant landscape of East Austin, Rockman Coffee + Bakery is a bright, welcoming spot that seamlessly blends warmth, community, and exceptional coffee and pastries. This brand-new Austin bakery and coffee shop is the brainchild of Amanda Rockman, a James Beard Semi-Finalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef. Rockman Coffee + Bakery brings a fresh perspective to the local food scene, offering handcrafted baked goods and expertly brewed coffee.
On a recent visit, we stepped into this charming café and were instantly embraced by its friendly atmosphere—sunlight streaming through large windows, the hum of conversation, and the comforting scent of fresh-baked pastries in Austin.
The menu boasts an array of artisan pastries and specialty coffee, and we couldn’t resist sampling a little bit of everything. First up: the pepperoni pizza bagel—a savory delight that packed a punch. The bagel was crisp yet chewy, layered with just the right amount of sauce, cheese, and spicy pepperoni, delivering a nostalgic yet elevated take on a classic favorite.
For a sweet contrast, we dove into the sticky caramel pecan bar. Rich and gooey, each bite melted effortlessly, balancing deep caramel notes with the satisfying crunch of pecans.
The real showstopper? The kouign amann, a pastry that felt like a crystallized croissant muffin. Buttery layers flaked and melted with each bite, offering a caramelized sweetness that lingered beautifully. A delicate croissant hybrid, with its perfect balance of crunch and caramelization, this pastry was an absolute standout, embodying the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines Rockman’s baked goods.
Meanwhile, the banana chocolate coffee cake was moist, rich, and decadent, masterfully balancing deep chocolate notes with the subtle sweetness of ripe banana, making it another delightful companion to a morning coffee in Austin.
Speaking of coffee, we paired our pastries with two standout drinks. The iced cookie butter latte with oat milk was silky and indulgent, with a hint of warmth that complemented the sweetness of the pastries. Meanwhile, the hot vanilla caramel latte offered a velvety richness, its comforting warmth rounding out our experience.
Rockman Coffee + Bakery isn’t just about the food—it’s about the feeling. Whether you’re in for a quick coffee stop in East Austin or a slow, pastry-filled café experience, this Austin coffee shop delivers quality pastries and specialty coffee in every bite and sip.
