Ah, coffee. The spice of life - and for many, life itself - especially on Mondays, when coffee is the only one who truly understands you. This time of year in particular, when mornings still have a slight chill, there's nothing better than watching the sun rise with a hot mug of liquid happiness in hand, am I right? Honestly, Idaho has never been known for its coffee, but as a state of hardworking individuals with a passion for doing things right, you can bet there are some rather fantastic beans being brewed throughout the state for your caffeine-craving pleasure.

While by no means a complete list of Idaho's best coffee shops, here are some delicious, funky, and unique cafes and coffeehouses worth checking out the next time you're in need of a little pick-me-up.

1. The District Coffeehouse, Boise

This eclectic and world market-esque coffeehouse serves up some surprisingly good java in a welcoming atmosphere that can't be beat. Enjoy the quaint patio, the live music, the community, the pastries... and then take a cold-brewed growler home with you for later! Our recommendation: try the Nitro Float or Affagato - two of their latest summer additions.

2. Bucer's Coffeehouse Pub, Moscow

As Idaho's second-largest college town, you know that there has to be some seriously good coffee around town to keep young academics awake through class. Bucer's is one that'll keep you coming back! Trendy with a fantastic ambiance, you can stick to the classics, enjoy out of this world chocolate desserts, or go for an alcohol-mix with Bucer's Paradise - an espresso stout.

3. Mystic Cafe, Lewiston

Housed in an inspiring space that will bring out your inner artist, this tiny cafe also has quite a history to it. Serving up some seriously awesome Doma coffee along with rather tasty eats, you can also grab an "adult" brew here if you so choose.

4. Iconoclast, Ketchum

This Sun Valley staple has been around for decades. Warm, cozy, simple, and serving up coffee of the non-froo-froo sort, this quaint cafe is part bookstore as well... because what goes better together than books and a cup of joe? Nothing, that's what.

5. Twin Beans Coffee, Twin Falls

Repeatedly named as the best coffeehouse in the Magic Valley, Twin Beans lives up to its reputation with beans roasted to order with a finesse that brings out the unique notes in every tiny kernel of caffeinated goodness... all by the owner himself. Our recommendation: get a crepe to go with your perfectly brewed cup of java. You won't regret it.

6. Strada Caffe, Coeur d'Alene

The only thing better than this cozy coffeehouse's location in a renovated Oil Can Henry's building is the coffee itself. A wide menu of java must-haves alongside innovative mochas and lattes the feature sweet and savory additions like lavender and star anise. Our recommendation: try the lightly caramelized Cubano Latte. Yum!

7. Suba, Victor

You wouldn't know it from the outside, but this hidden gem in humble Victor, ID makes some seriously awesome espresso. Part tattoo parlor and part gift shop and clothing store, this building also houses a small cafe that coffee lovers say is absolutely out of this world. As in, worth driving hundreds of miles out of your way for.

8. Flying M Coffeehouse, Boise

You might not know that Boise was recently ranked as a top coffee city due to its abundance of smaller, independent coffee shops. Flying M is a local favorite, boasting a cozy, eclectic vibe that is as diverse as its java and Italian soda offerings. While you're there, buy a few funky gives for the mother-in-law that already has everything.

9. Evans Brothers Coffee Roasters, Sandpoint

In the foodie travel destination of Sandpoint, ID, maintaining a perfect five-star rating is near impossible, especially in terms of coffee. But Evans Bros run their coffeehouse flawlessly, offering a plethora of milk varieties to complement your drink of choice, a funky-sexy laid-back atmosphere, and even take-home beans for lazy morning enjoyment. Awesome!

10. The Blue Lantern Coffee House, Lewiston

What sets the Blue Lantern apart is not just the decor -- which is a refreshing blend of country chic and rustic, old world charm - it's also the attention to detail. Organic roasts and condiments and fresh ingredients are key to bringing out the richness of every coffee bean. It'll blow your mind.

What do you think? Do you have any go-to or favorite cafes? What keeps you coming back - the coffee or the atmosphere?