Top 5 Coffee Shops in Minneapolis and St. Paul
Calling all coffee enthusiasts and Twin Cities dwellers in search of the perfect brew! Prepare to embark on a flavorful journey as we unveil the Top 5 coffee shops in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Twin Cities Coffeehouse Tour
Ready to find out the best coffee shops in Minneapolis and St. Paul? Whether you’re a devoted espresso aficionado, a lover of rich pour-overs, or simply seeking a cozy atmosphere to indulge in aromatic blends, our comprehensive guide will lead you to the caffeinated gems that await your discovery.
From trendy urban hubs to hidden neighborhood gems, this caffeine-filled adventure will leave you buzzing with excitement. Get ready to awaken your taste buds and explore the vibrant coffee scene that defines the Twin Cities like never before!
I’m a lifelong resident of Minneapolis and a full-time writer of feel-good stories and Midwest travel guidebooks. Trust me when I say, I live at some of these coffee shops! Hehe.
Top 5 Coffee Shops in Minneapolis and St. Paul
Is there anything better than a perfect cup of warm coffee on a cold Minnesota day? Well, you’re in for a treat because today we’re letting you in on a little secret only locals know about: the five best coffeehouses in the Twin Cities!
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Coffee houses in Minneapolis, like those in Winona, have a unique charm that makes them incredibly cozy. It’s the combination of warm, inviting interiors, often with a rustic or homey feel, and the scent of fresh coffee that creates a welcoming atmosphere. In the colder months, these cafes become a haven from the frosty weather, offering a snug place to unwind with a hot drink.
The local touch of these cafes, with artworks and crafts from Minnesotan artists, adds to the allure, making each coffee house a special spot to relax, meet friends, or just enjoy the simple pleasure of a good cup of coffee. Plus, they are a great place to get some work done!
These are fun local spots that you have to try if you are in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
1. Spyhouse Coffee
This is my favorite coffeehouse in the Twin Cities.
In 2000, Spyhouse first opened in a 1926 brownstone in the Whittier neighborhood, one of Minneapolis’ oldest and most diverse neighborhoods – just blocks from Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Minneapolis Institute of Art, and The Children’s Theatre.
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Spyhouse Coffee is known for its high-quality coffee, which is sourced from sustainable and ethical farms around the world. They offer a wide range of coffee drinks, including espresso-based beverages, pour-over coffee, and cold brew. They also offer a selection of teas, pastries, and other food items.
They have several locations in the Twin Cities, but I like visiting their OG shop.
2. Five Watt Coffee
The baristas at Five Watt believe that coffee is about connecting people. If you’re a regular, they will remember your name, your order and usually serve your drink with a caffeinated high five.
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Five Watt Coffee is known for its creative and innovative coffee drinks. Their menu features a variety of espresso-based beverages, pour-over coffee, and signature drinks, such as the “Kingfield,” which is made with espresso, honey, vanilla, and cinnamon. They also offer a selection of teas, pastries, and other food items.
Jack and I used to live in the Kingfield neighborhood, and we would walk to Five Watt several times a week.
3. Hard Times Cafe
Hard Times Cafe is a popular vegan/punk restaurant located in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood of Minneapolis. One of the most unique features of Hard Times Cafe is its punk rock aesthetic. The walls are covered in graffiti and posters, and the music is often loud and energetic.
Overall, Hard Times Cafe is a great spot for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking for tasty and affordable food in a laid-back atmosphere. With its punk rock vibe and commitment to serving delicious and ethical food, it’s no wonder why it’s become a beloved local institution in Minneapolis.
My husband Jack did an entire video essay about his love/hate relationship with Hard Times, click here to watch…and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more travel tips, hidden gems and more. We typically make a lot of content about fun and quirky spots to visit in Minnesota and the upper Midwest…you betcha!
4. Pow Wow Grounds
Pow Wow Grounds is a Native American-owned coffee shop and restaurant located in Minneapolis. Pow Wow Grounds offers a variety of dishes that showcase traditional Native American ingredients and cooking methods. For breakfast, try a blueberry wild rice muffin or a wild rice breakfast burrito. Lunch offers include Indian tacos and frybread pizza.
In addition to its delicious food and drink offerings, Pow Wow Grounds is also known for its cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The walls are adorned with Native American art, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the food and culture.
Overall, Pow Wow Grounds is a great spot for anyone looking to experience traditional Native American cuisine and culture in a warm and inviting setting. With its commitment to serving high-quality food and drinks and honoring Native American traditions, it’s no surprise why it’s become a beloved local institution in Minneapolis.
5. Nina’s Coffee Cafe
Nina’s Coffee Cafe is a cozy and welcoming coffee shop located in the Cathedral Hill neighborhood of St. Paul, Minnesota. The cafe has been a local favorite since it first opened. Nina’s is known for its high-quality coffee, which is locally roasted by True Stone Coffee Roasters. They offer a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso-based beverages, pour-over coffee, and cold brew. They also offer a selection of teas, pastries, and other snacks.
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One of the unique features of Nina’s Coffee Cafe is its commitment to supporting the local community. They often host events such as book clubs, live music performances, and art shows. They also partner with local organizations and businesses to give back to the community.
Overall, Nina’s Coffee Cafe is a great spot for coffee lovers in St. Paul. With its high-quality coffee, cozy atmosphere, and community-focused approach, it’s no wonder why it’s become a beloved local coffee shop.
Conclusion
Well, those are my picks for finding a good cup of coffee here in the Twin Cities. Five of the best coffeeshops in the Twin Cities. By the way, in Minneapolis you can find big, comforting chains like Starbucks, Dunkin’ and Caribou…but it’s fun to support the local ma & pa places, tiny little cafes with dedicated baristas whose passion for their craft you can taste in every cup.
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As we wrap up our caffeinated expedition through the Twin Cities’ vibrant coffee culture, I hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive journey of uncovering the best coffee shops. Whether you enjoy indulging in a velvety latte or sipping on a meticulously brewed pour-over, these cozy coffee shops stand out as beacons of excellence. I hope you get to experience them soon!
The Twin Cities’ coffee scene continues to evolve, promising endless exploration and delightful encounters for both local residents and coffee enthusiasts visiting from afar. So, next time you find yourself craving a moment of pure bliss in the form of a perfectly brewed cup of joe, remember our picks for the best Twin Cities coffee shops!
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Jack and I are curious to find out: what is your favorite coffee shop…in the Twin Cities…or wherever you live? Let us know in the comments (just scroll to the bottom of this page). We’re always on the road…and always in need of a good cup of coffee! Hehe. Thanks for reading.
Bad Dad Jokes with Jack and Kitty
I wandered down to my neighbor Ole’s place for a cup of ambition, and when I tasted the coffee he made I said, “Ole this coffee is terrible! It tastes like mud!” And he said, “Well, it oughta, it was just ground this morning!”
Click here for more bad dad jokes.
