Grand Rapids is a center for unbelievably good coffee shops that offer fresh, coffees, teas, local gluten free/vegan donuts, muffins and so much more. I find myself constantly going to the coffee shop that is just a few blocks from my apartment and can't help but constantly love on it.
This scene brings in the coolest looking hipsters, young men and women dressed in suits, the not-so-wealthy that have amazing stories to tell and I guess the average human like myself.
Even though all of these places have amazing coffee; locally brewed and oh so rich, I find myself lovin' on the teas and wanted to tell you the best 5 coffee shops around to get your favorite tea at.
1. Lightfast Coffee & Art Collective
This café and art venue is particularly new and I haven't spent a ton of time there just because it is on the opposite side of town as I am but the few times I have been in there, I have not been unimpressed. The fact that it is an art collective too, makes the space incredible to be in and surrounded by.
Check their website out online to see their menu and all the art they host:
http://www.lightfastcoffee.com
2. Lyon Street Café
This place has been my favorite ever since I moved to Grand Rapids. Now, i've found a few places I do fancy better but there is nothing bad to say about this place! A not-so-healthy perk that Lyon Street offers is their INCREDIBLE desserts. From their amazing macarons to their tiramisu layered dessert, I have to stay away from that place! The atmosphere and comfortable seating makes it the perfect study nook.
Recommended tea: Ginger Honey Hibiscus
https://www.facebook.com/LyonStreetCafe/
3. Madcap Coffee
I was really never a huge fan of Madcap until I got their tea. They are constantly switching their teas in and out so if I recommend one, you might not be able to get it. But their Oolong is $8 and great, (yes, expensive, but the best Oolong I've ever had). The vibe of Madcap sits in the heart of downtown and holds the heart of the center of the city.
4. Ferris Coffee-Trust Building
The best thing about Ferris when it comes to tea? They will resteep it for free up to 4 times! That's about 12 extra dollars I don't have to spend on getting another cup of tea when I am sitting and studying for a good 6 hours.
Recommended Tea: Oolong
5. The Lantern Coffee Bar and Lounge
And last but not least, my favorite coffee and tea bar. Recommended there? The Peppermint Tea! It is beyond belief. Wonderful seating, close to my apartment and open mic nights on Thursdays? It is the ultimate hotspot of Grand Rapids downtown Coffee scene.
