If you're anything like me, you love coffee. (I'm also seemingly naturally caffeinated, but that's besides the point). Coffee, especially when in conjunction with books, makes for my favorite kind of shops to explore. And, luckily for us Minnesotans, there's an abundance of such businesses! Here's a list of 5 of my favorite coffee shops in the Twin Cities (in no particular order of favorites).
1. Kopplins
Address: 2038 Marshall Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104
History: Andrew Kopplin applied his European coffee-house memories when he opened his namesake coffee shop in the Highland Park neighborhood in 2006; the current location opened in 2011 to accommodate the growing love for the unique coffee shop.
My History: Kopplins is my most frequent haunt. A mere 10 minute walk for me, I studied at Kopplins throughout high school on their comfy window-side couch, resolved friend drama at their stoic marble tables, and over-caffeinated myself on their delicious espresso. The shop has a great feel that I wouldn't describe necessarily as "cozy," but more as "chill." With featured jewelry/pieces by local artists and wonderful tunes, this is a win-win coffee shop for all reasons.
Recommended Drink: Valhrona mocha with soymilk--not the for the faint-of-chocolate-heart, but so incredibly good.
2. Wilde Roast
Address: 65 Main St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
History: Named after the flamboyant playwright Oscar Wilde, Wilde Roast is a Victorian-meets-21st century hybrid restaurant that features everything from fabulous indoor seating by fireplaces to an outdoor terrace seating right across from the Stone Arch Bridge. The cafe offers a full menu, drinks, and wonderful coffee to boot.
My History: I first went to Wilde Roast on a beautiful summer day for a date, and I was immediately enchanted by its eclectic vibe--and, of course, the amazing coffee.
Recommended Drink: Wilde Caramel--smooth as smooth can be...yum.
3. Nina's
Address: 165 Western Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55102
History: Opened in 2005 by former middle school teacher June Berkowitz, Nina's is named after the quasi mythical Nina Clifford, brothel-owner and businesswoman extraordinaire. The coffee shop is known for its breathtaking architecture and traditional "hipster" mission--a coffee house differing from the new, stainless-steel vibe of 21st century coffee houses.
My History: I was, yet again, introduced to this shop by my aforementioned sister, but also owe my Nina's love to one of the most genuine people I was blessed to know in high school. Her true love and passion for her beliefs is well paralleled by Nina's atmosphere.
Recommended Drink: Dirty Chai--this means a chai tea latte with espresso for those who may mistake the term "dirty."
4. Vicinity Coffee (used to be called Bull Run)
Address: 4301 Nicollet Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55409
History: Originally named Bull Run Coffee, Vicinity Coffee recently switched names to separate/de-confuse from Bull Run Brewing, but their awesome vibe remains the same. Blessed with two locations, Vicinity Coffee has been a local coffee spot for the past 5 years and is known for both their traditional and innovate drinks and a secretly extensive menu.
My History: I was first introduced to Vicinity when it was Bull Run about a year ago by some cast-mates for a much-needed pre-rehearsal caffeine kick. I fell in love with it shortly thereafter and often jaunt over to the Nicollet location to get a real good latte to pair with whatever real good book I happen to be reading. The artsy, tucked-in vibe of the Nicollet location is as warm and unique as their handcrafted drinks.
Recommended Drink: Shot in the Nutz--don't be taken aback by the, uh, bold name. With a Nutella undertone, this drink is a winner-winner-chicken-dinner for sure.
5. Spyhouse
Address: there are multiple locations throughout the Twin Cities, but the most well-known is the Uptown one ( 2404 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55405 if you're brave enough to tackle Uptown traffic) and my favorite is the Arts District local (945 Broadway St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413)
History: Owner Christian Johnson first opened the Nicollet location of Spyhouse in 2000. Though he may have been left essentially broke after opening, his entrepreneuring definitely paid off as his coffee company now boasts 4 different locations across Minneapolis, including a roasting facility in the Arts District location.
My History: My basically-identical-twin-except-for-8-years-older-and-four-inches-shorter sister introduced me to Spyhouse at the Uptown location about five or so years ago, and while I believe my first drink was a hot chocolate (sigh--I wasn't so into the now-endearing bitterness of coffee as a tween), I've now expanded my palette to their coffee and have never been disappointed.
Recommended Drink: Spygirl Latte--lavender (in addition to pistachio) is one of the most underrated coffee flavorings EVER, and this latte shows you why.
So there ya have it--five amazing, unique, and thoroughly caffeinated coffee shops for you to explore around the Twin Cities. I recommend bringing a book for even better experiences :) Happy sipping and searching!
