Minnesota’s coffee scene is quietly thriving—and if you’re like me, the search for that perfect cup is more than a habit; it’s a passion. From cozy roasters in the Twin Cities to Nordic-inspired cafés up north, I’ve sipped my way through dozens of shops to bring you the 10 best coffee spots in Minnesota for 2025. Whether you’re chasing single-origin perfection, an Instagram-worthy latte, or just a quiet corner with good Wi-Fi, these barista-approved picks are absolute must-visits.
1. Spyhouse Coffee Roasters – Minneapolis & St. Paulaxaaaas
Best For: Hip ambiance + ethically sourced espresso
If you ask any local barista where they hang out when they’re off-duty, Spyhouse almost always makes the list. With several stylish locations scattered across the Twin Cities, Spyhouse is more than a coffee shop—it’s a staple of Minnesota’s third-wave coffee movement.
What sets them apart? Their small-batch, in-house roasted beans, meticulous espresso pulls, and those creamy house-made syrups. The Northeast Minneapolis location, with its exposed brick and industrial loft vibes, is a vibe in itself.
- Try This: The Spygirl – a honey lavender latte that balances floral and sweet notes like a dream.
- Visit Spyhouse Coffee Roasters
2. Backstory Coffee Roasters – St. Paul
Best For: Scandinavian minimalism + next-level pour-overs
Formerly known as Bootstrap, Backstory Coffee Roasters has rebranded but kept its soul. Located in a light-filled corner of St. Paul, this shop champions transparency—both in sourcing and roasting. They work directly with farms and co-ops, ensuring not just quality but sustainability.
The baristas here are true pros, and they’re more than happy to guide you through the tasting notes of a rotating menu of single-origin offerings.
- Try This: Ethiopian pour-over – expect notes of blueberry, jasmine, and citrus that dance on your palate.
- Visit Backstory Coffee Roasters
3. Fika Coffee – Lutsen
Best For: North Shore views + cozy cabin energy
If you’re road-tripping along Lake Superior’s North Shore, Fika Coffee in Lutsen is a must-stop. It’s small, local, and proudly Scandinavian in philosophy—’fika’ means to take a break, have coffee, and connect.
They roast their own beans in small batches just a few steps from the espresso machine. This place radiates that “slow down and savor” energy we all need more of.
- Try This: Seasonal maple latte (especially if you visit in fall or winter—it’s a hug in a mug).
- Visit Fika Coffee
4. Five Watt Coffee – Minneapolis
Best For: Wild coffee cocktails + serious creativity
This is not your average café. Five Watt Coffee is all about pushing boundaries with experimental drinks that combine house bitters, herbs, spices, and infusions—all without a drop of alcohol. The result? Coffee cocktails that taste like something you’d get at a high-end bar, but fully caffeinated.
Each location (Kingfield, Northeast, Keg & Case) has its own personality, but the coffee quality remains top-notch. You can tell their baristas love what they do.
- Try This: The Kingfield – espresso, milk, vanilla, coriander bitters, and black Hawaiian sea salt. It sounds weird—until you try it.
- Visit Five Watt Coffee
5. Northern Coffeeworks – Minneapolis
Best For: Adventurers + coffee with a cause
This shop is inspired by Minnesota’s wild outdoor lifestyle, and it shows. From the woodsy decor to the locally sourced ingredients, Northern Coffeeworks is where climbers, cyclists, and creatives converge for quality brew and good vibes.
Their espresso is rich and smooth, and their food menu (don’t skip the breakfast sandwich) makes it a great fuel-up spot. Bonus: they partner with local nonprofits and outdoor orgs, so your coffee dollars support more than just your caffeine fix.
- Try This: Cold press with cardamom syrup – uniquely refreshing and bold.
- Visit Northern Coffeeworks
6. Cafe Ceres – Minneapolis
Best For: Modern design + Mediterranean flavors
Nestled in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, Cafe Ceres brings a fresh and refined take on the local coffee scene. Think sleek interiors, natural light, and a menu that blends classic espresso drinks with globally inspired flavors—like pistachio rose lattes and tahini mochas.
This café is a favorite among creatives, business professionals, and anyone looking for a little elegance with their caffeine fix.
- Try This: Pistachio Latte – lightly sweet, nutty, and absolutely unforgettable.
- Visit Cafe Ceres
7. Dunn Brothers Coffee – Multiple Locations Across Minnesota
Best For: Consistent quality + locally roasted beans
While it’s a regional chain, Dunn Brothers Coffee earns a spot on this list for a good reason: they roast their beans in-store daily, and it shows in every sip. Founded in Minnesota, they’ve kept that local heart while expanding.
Their shops have a cozy, welcoming vibe that’s perfect for reading, working, or catching up with friends. It’s a dependable favorite that locals swear by.
- Try This: Infinite Black Cold Brew – rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced.
- Visit Dunn Brothers Coffee
8. Third Street Brewhouse Coffee Bar – Cold Spring
Best For: Small-town charm + hidden gem vibes
Tucked away in Cold Spring, Third Street Brewhouse Coffee Bar isn’t just a surprise—it’s a revelation. Though better known for beer, their in-house coffee bar delivers bold espresso and expertly crafted drinks. It’s the perfect fusion of café meets community gathering space.
The baristas here are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, making it worth the trip if you’re anywhere near central Minnesota.
- Try This: Cinnamon Spice Cappuccino – aromatic, cozy, and great with a pastry.
- Visit Third Street Brewhouse
9. Wesley Andrews Coffee & Tea – Minneapolis
Best For: Specialty tea + minimalist Scandinavian design
If you love quiet spaces, pour-over artistry, and an elevated aesthetic, Wesley Andrews Coffee & Tea is your sanctuary. This boutique café in Whittier isn’t loud or flashy—but that’s the beauty of it.
They focus on direct trade and precision brewing. And while the coffee is excellent, don’t sleep on their specialty tea program, which features high-end loose-leaf options sourced from around the world.
- Try This: Single-Origin Pour Over + Jasmine Pearl Tea on the side – a balanced, calming combo.
- Visit Wesley Andrews Coffee
10. Abdallah Candies & Coffee – Apple Valley
Best For: Sweet pairings + nostalgic comfort
This might be one of Minnesota’s most unique coffee spots. Abdallah Candies, known for their gourmet chocolates since 1909, added a coffee shop to their Apple Valley location—and it’s a dream for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Imagine sipping velvety espresso while surrounded by handmade truffles and caramels. It’s a blend of classic Minnesota heritage and modern café culture.
- Try This: Caramel Mocha paired with a sea salt chocolate square – indulgent and so worth it.
- Visit Abdallah Candies & Coffee
Final Thoughts
With these 10 exceptional coffee shops, you now have a full guide to some of Minnesota’s best hidden gems and most respected cafés. Whether you’re in the Twin Cities, driving up the North Shore, or exploring charming small towns, there’s a world-class cup of coffee waiting for you.
Pro Tip: Bookmark this list for your next Minnesota road trip—or better yet, turn it into a personal coffee crawl. Each spot brings its own personality, flavor profile, and vibe to the table.
FAQs – Best Coffee Shops in Minnesota (2025)
1. What is the most popular coffee shop in Minnesota in 2025?
Spyhouse Coffee Roasters remains one of the most popular and respected shops in Minnesota thanks to its house-roasted beans and stylish Twin Cities locations.
2. Are there any good coffee shops in northern Minnesota?
Yes! Fika Coffee in Lutsen is a beloved North Shore gem known for small-batch roasts and cozy, Nordic-inspired vibes.
3. Which coffee shops in Minnesota roast their own beans?
Several shops roast in-house, including Spyhouse, Backstory Coffee Roasters, Five Watt, and Fika Coffee.
4. What’s the best coffee shop in Minnesota for studying or remote work?
Cafe Ceres and Northern Coffeeworks both offer comfortable seating, good Wi-Fi, and a calm atmosphere—perfect for remote work.
5. Do any Minnesota coffee shops have unique drinks or coffee cocktails?
Yes! Five Watt Coffee is famous for its creative, non-alcoholic coffee cocktails made with house bitters and unique flavor infusions.
Related Post you may like:
I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
