Nearly every Twin Cities travel itinerary includes a stop at one of the top-rated coffee shops in Minneapolis, whether that’s the original Spyhouse Coffee Roasting Company, Penny’s in North Loop, or the ever-popular Dogwood Coffee Company. But hidden amongst these local giants are three often-overlooked destinations that all java lovers can appreciate. Whether you’re starting your day inside a Sable penthouse, luxury Georgian mansion, or one of our Lake Minnetonka house rentals, you’ll undoubtedly want to greet each morning with a steaming cup of locally-roasted joe.
THE TOP 3 COFFEE SHOPS IN MINNEAPOLIS
Over the years, the folks here at Minnestay have enjoyed a cup of java at over 80 percent of the coffee shops in Minneapolis, and these three stops all stood out for differing reasons. Whether you’re searching for the tastiest latte in the city, a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, or a coffee and craft beer combo, you won’t be disappointed with a visit to one (or two) of these local favorites.
ANELACE COFFEE
While travelers often flock to Broadway Avenue’s Spyhouse, shrewd locals slip on up Central Avenue to enjoy a glorious cup of joe at the vastly underrated Anelace Coffee. Yes, Anelace is a hipster’s paradise amidst thriving international restaurants (including the top-ranked restaurant on TripAdvisor), but please don’t overlook this slender, charcoal-colored coffee shop down the street. Anelace serves their roasty, luscious lattes in sky blue mugs—which is a visual treat. While Anelace’s exterior is jet black, the interior is highlighted by dazzlingly-white 19th-century ceiling tiles, a porcelain barback backsplash, and a distressed, south-facing brick wall. The baristas are polite, talented, and swift behind the bar.
FIVE WATT COFFEE
Five Watt Coffee is the only cafe on this list to have expanded to multiple locations, including into St. Paul’s brand new Keg and Case West 7th Market. Their idyllic locations matter just as much as the hushed atmosphere, imaginative decor, and top-notch coffee. We’re partial to Five Watt’s Hennepin Avenue locale inside the old Miller Textile building, a now-revamped industrial complex that also houses HeadFlyer Brewing, Mission Manor Escape Rooms, and Northland Visions. The cold, concrete flooring, exposed red brick, and repurposed wood furnishings provide a glimpse into the building’s past. Oh, and the baristas use their master artistry to concoct some of the tastiest iced espresso beverages in the Twin Cities. In other words, we cannot imagine a list of the best coffee shops in Minneapolis that doesn’t rank Five Watt Coffee near the top.
THE CAFE MEOW
Admittedly, The Cafe Meow’s black coffee doesn’t hold a candle to Anelace or Five Watt, but what’s better than an early-morning beverage in lively Uptown Minneapolis? How about an early-morning beverage in Uptown Minneapolis in the presence of ten to 15 adorable (and adoptable) cats! For just $10 per person, espresso junkies can sip on an organic coffee (from Bootstrap Coffee Roasters) while petting, playing, and falling in love with some of the city’s cuddliest felines. The Cafe Meow has kindled nearly 170 adoptions in less than two years. Upon entrance, the always patient and helpful lounge “hosts” provide information about each cat. Don’t forget to return home with a kitschy cat-themed gift.
LUXURIOUS MINNEAPOLIS VACATION RENTALS
After a brief (albeit memorable) visit to one of the three best coffee shops in Minneapolis, feel free to explore all that makes the Twin Cities truly one of a kind. Many of our lavish Minnesota vacation rentals are a short walk, Lime ride, or drive from the region’s top attractions, including Target Field, the Walker Art Center, the Mall of America, Minnehaha Falls, and Como Park Zoo. To learn more about Minnestay’s growing community of vacation homes, lofts, and estates, please give us a call today at 612-216-5511. And don’t forget to ask our friendly team members about their personal favorite Minneapolis coffee roasters.
