The Rumour Mill

102-1 Main St, Phelps, NY 14532, United States
+1 315-719-2631
$$$ Cafe
(36 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

The Rumour Mill is a relaxed and welcoming cafe tucked into downtown Phelps, serving as a comfortable spot for locals to start their day or take a quick break. The vibe here leans casual and friendly, with both a Main Street entrance and a convenient back door from the parking lot on Exchange Street, making it easy to pop in whether you’re strolling through town or running errands.

Locals appreciate the quality of the coffee, which comes from locally sourced beans and often beats the standard big-chain offerings in both freshness and flavor. Whether you're after a well-crafted latte, a hot chai, or a smooth espresso, there’s a solid range of drinks—including specialty lattes and frozen blends like cookies & cream or vanilla chai—that cater to comfort and creativity alike.

The bar seating encourages casual conversation and a bit of community feel, with friends or neighbors often chatting over their drinks. The atmosphere is warm without being stuffy, excellent for those who want a coffee place with a genuine local personality rather than a rushed grab-and-go counter.

Best times to visit tend to be mornings for a reliable caffeine boost, but The Rumour Mill also fills in nicely for afternoon pick-me-ups or casual meetups. The staff are known for being personable and attentive, which makes a difference especially on busy weekends. Additionally, the café transforms occasionally with evening events, like live music nights, adding another layer to its role as a community hangout.

Visitors who enjoy quality coffee in an unpretentious setting, where they can linger, chat, or even grab something cold and blended on a warm day, will find The Rumour Mill fits right into the rhythm of small-town Phelps life. It’s also a spot where the local feel shines through—whether you’re catching up with friends or just soaking in the downtown atmosphere.

Highlights
Great coffee
Popular for
Breakfast
What they serve
Coffee
Quick bite
Best for
Breakfast
Dessert
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

06:30 AM - 02:00 PM

Tuesday

06:30 AM - 02:00 PM

Wednesday

06:30 AM - 02:00 PM

Thursday

06:30 AM - 02:00 PM

Friday

06:30 AM - 02:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 01:00 PM

36 Reviews
Laura

04 Jan 2026

Friday was my first time trying their lattes, and it didn't disappoint. I've been in the mood for a pumpkin latte lately and I was very happy to see that they had specialty lattes featuring one. I also purchased a frozen cookies and cream with espresso and a caramel iced coffee for some coworkers. Both enjoyed their drinks. I didn't get a chance to have any food but I will definitely be back.

Leigh Everett

03 Jan 2026

We feel so fortunate to have such a wonderful little coffee shop right here in Phelps. It was becoming easier to just make coffee at home until this place opened and now it’s our favorite spot to stop for a quick treat. They use locally sourced coffee that tastes better than Starbucks or anywhere we’ve ever had before. The atmosphere is great and everyone who works there is super friendly. We love the rumor mill!

Nina TS

20 Dec 2025

My wife and I stopped in to kick off our Saturday errand day. They have a front door on Main St and the backdoor is in the parking lot on Exchange St. There were a few people sitting at the bar, chatting and having a grand time. Upon arrival, there was a couple in front of us, and another couple came in shortly after us. The owners are very personable, friendly, and respectful. There is a chill vibe the moment you walk in. There are a few tables, chairs and a settee in there for customers to relax. I ordered a Matcha Latte. My spouse ordered a fancy Coffee with flavor. They were absolutely delicious. I'll definitely be back. I'm so excited my hometown has an official coffee shop!

Geneice Thomas-Stenzel

10 Dec 2025

Rumour Mill is always solid. Great coffee in the morning, great cocktails at night, and the staff is consistently amazing. Justin Swank played tonight and sounded fantastic. Always a good experience here. Please bring Justin back!

Emily Bryant

03 Dec 2025

Wonderful addition to downtown Phelps. Cozy environment with welcoming staff. Monthly drink specials that are all delicious. Best Chai Tea Latte I have ever had . I cannot recommend this shop enough!

Samantha Kesel

21 Nov 2025

The Rumour Mill is my Luke’s Diner. Seriously, if you’ve ever watched Gilmore Girls and wished you had a place like that in real life…this is it. The coffee is the perfect reward after surviving the drop off line, but what really makes it special is the staff. They’re the kind of people who remember your order, actually care how your day is going, and make you feel like part of the family. My 6-year-old made a core memory here one Saturday morning when she beat me in checkers for the first time It’s cozy, it’s welcoming, and it’s an absolute must-stop for me every single morning. If Stars Hollow had a zip code here, this would be the heart of it. P.S. The owner, Seth, had no idea what I was talking about when I told him he was “my Luke” so, make sure you call him Luke when you stop by!

Clive Ricketts

04 Nov 2025

New favorite, easily one of the best coffee I’ve had in the area. The space is very quaint and clean, even when crowded easily able to work in peace. Again, very tentative staff. Price is reasonable. Recommend the Barista Special. Will be going back!!

Shanty Hawke

21 Oct 2025

I've been lucky enough to watch two amazing friends turn their dream into something truly special. From the very first visit, it's clear this place is more than just a coffee shop—it's a reflection of their passion, creativity, and love for community. The coffee? Absolutely top-tier. Every cup is crafted with care, and you can taste the difference. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and beautifully designed. What truly sets them apart is how they engage with their customers. They’re not just serving coffee—they're building relationships, sparking conversations, and creating a space that people genuinely want to return to. I’m incredibly proud of what they’ve built. This shop isn’t just about caffeine—it’s about connection, creativity, and community. If you haven’t visited yet, you’re missing out on something special.

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