Updated June 2024
Everything seems to taste better in Duluth – especially coffee. Duluth is bursting with roasteries and warm, inviting coffee shops – plus fresh Lake Superior water for brewing. Below are some of the places (and beans) coffee enthusiasts won’t want to miss on their next trip to this northern Minnesota jewel:
Duluth Coffee Company – After roasting coffee in his garage and distributing it from an old F-150, Duluth Coffee Company’s founder, Eric Faust, opened a small downtown coffee house and roastery in 2012. Since then, his business has grown exponentially while staying true to the company’s roots. With a mission to “source, roast and craft coffee with integrity and intentionality,” it’s a business people can feel good supporting. Grab a cup and stay to enjoy the downtown scene, or take it to go and head across the street to the Lakewalk to take in Lake Superior views.
Almanac Coffee – in the Lincoln Park Craft District, Almanac Coffee is a family-owned micro-roastery that focuses on seasonal, single origin coffees. The roastery is located at the Duluth Folk School, which shares a quintessentially Duluth space with Dovetail Café and Marketplace. Dovetail is the perfect place to soak in local culture and art while enjoying Almanac Coffee.
Wussow’s Concert Café – For more than 20 years, Wussow’s Concert Café has been the go-to place for great conversation, amazing coffee, healthy food and the best original music. This West Duluth gem is the ideal spot to go to feel like a local – while enjoying a cup of joe.
Yellow Bike Coffee– Yellow Bike Coffee was founded on the belief that “there is still a lot of road ahead, and we’re all in this together.” They live this belief by donating eight percent of proceeds from their Hero Roasts to local organizations, while also providing a caffeine fix to those who need a little extra to take on the day. With locations in Duluth Heights and in the historic Fitger’s Complex, it’s another can’t-miss.
Amity Coffee – A staple with locals in the Lakeside neighborhood, Amity Coffee is a small, family-owned coffee shop that’s all about coffee and tea, baked goods, music and harmonious friendships. Featuring local roasts, Amity is a perfect place to cozy up with a big mug, or if you’re on-the-go, it’s a great spot to grab a cup before a stroll on the Lakewalk.
Perk Place Coffeehouse – If you’re looking for great food and strong coffee, Perk Place Coffeehouse is the spot for you. Owned and operated by mother-daughter team Ria and Jodi Takhar, this charming place is conveniently located near the University of Minnesota Duluth and Saint Scholastica.
190 Coffee and Tea – Brand new in the Lincoln Park Craft District, 190 Coffee and Tea is already making a splash. With a motto that states, “Life isn’t perfect, but your coffee can be,” it’s the kind of place you’ll want to visit…and then return to over and over again.
Alakef Coffee Roasters – For over 25 years, Alakef Coffee Roasters has been expertly sourcing, scientifically crafting and custom roasting the best beans. A portion of every bag sold goes toward their Alakef Gives program, which donates a portion of profits to organizations working to have positive impacts in the local and global community. And their sister company, City Girl Coffee Co. was created to bring awareness and equality to women of the coffee industry. They source from women-owned or women-managed farms and send a portion of every sale to organizations that support their partners. Pick up a bag of City Girl Coffee or any of the Alakef Coffee brands to bring home a Duluth souvenir you’re sure to enjoy.
Wired Whisker Cat Cafe – Come for the coffee and stay for the cats at Duluth’s first cat cafe! Newly opened in the heart of Duluth, you’ll find a cozy place to relax, refreshing beverages, and locally-made baked goods. Journey down the hall to spend time in the Cat Lounge, where all cats are all adoptable through partnerships with Animal Allies Humane Society and Pet Haven of MN.