Grand Rapids has become a mecca for coffee lovers and café connoisseurs in recent years, with an abundance of charming, locally-owned spots to get your caffeine fix. Whether you’re looking for a cozy study spot, a place to meet friends, or just an exceptional cup of coffee, these are the top 10 cafes you don’t want to miss in the Grand Rapids area.
- Madcap Coffee Considered one of the pioneering third-wave coffee roasters in Grand Rapids, Madcap has multiple locations around town. Their flagship café on Monroe Center downtown offers a cool, industrial vibe and some of the best coffee you’ll find anywhere, sourced from carefully selected beans from around the world.
- Lyon Street Cafe A welcoming neighborhood hangout in the East Hills area, Lyon Street Cafe offers a warm, living room-like ambiance to relax over house-roasted coffee, hearty breakfasts, and seasonally-inspired lunch fare. The sidewalk seating is perfect for pleasant days.
- Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea A Grand Rapids institution since 1993, Sweetwaters has multiple locations around town serving up freshly roasted coffee, loose leaf teas, and light bites like sandwiches and baked goods. The cozy décor and friendly vibe make this a local favorite for studying or catching up with friends.
- Lantern Coffee Bar & Lounge A top spot for studying or working thanks to its many nooks, cozy window seats, and quiet spaces, Lantern also hosts frequent live music and other events. Their Vietnamese-style iced coffee is a must-try on a hot day.
- The Sparrows Coffee Tea & Newsstand Perfectly embodying the vibe of an eclectic neighborhood café, Sparrows in East Hills serves up craft coffee, beer, and an ever-changing selection of magazines to peruse over a house-made pastry or bagel sandwich.
- Rowster Coffee This bright, minimalist café in the Creston neighborhood focuses on impeccably sourced and roasted coffee in both hot and cold drinks, including their famous cold brew. There’s also usually local artwork on display lining the walls.
- Squibb Coffee & Wine Bar An upscale, European-style café located right on the Medical Mile, Squibb is a top destination for a luxurious coffee break. They offer gourmet pastries, sandwiches, cocktails, and wine in addition to their acclaimed coffee.
- Last Mile Cafe This non-profit café near the Cottage Grove neighborhood serves up delicious coffee and food with a mission – all proceeds support Dégagé Ministries’ outreach to the homeless. The bright, modern space offers a welcoming place to enjoy specialties like their lavender honey latte while giving back to the community.
- Roots Brew Shop A great spot for coffee purists, Roots on Wealthy Street focuses on brewing exceptional cups of coffee using premium beans roasted in-house. The minimalist space allows the coffee to be the star, though they also offer some simple food items. It’s a favorite for takeout as well as sipping in the shop.
- Schuil Coffee Company This bright and airy café on Diamond Ave offers a warm, welcoming vibe and high-quality coffee roasted by Schuil right on site. They put an emphasis on sourcing ethical, sustainable beans and creating both classic and signature drinks. The homemade baked goods are also a major draw.
No matter where you go in Grand Rapids, you’re never far from a fantastic café to enjoy meticulously brewed coffee and delicious food in a welcoming environment. This thriving coffee scene is just one of the many things that makes Grand Rapids such a special city.
