When Grand Rapidians are not out at the nearest brewery, they can usually be found at one of the many coffee shops that continue to pop up across the city.
Here is a short guide to all the local shops serving up a different kind of brew. Roasted beans and sweet treats are the way to a freelancer's heart. That and of course, very strong wifi.
The Sparrows Coffee Tea and Newsstand - 1035 Wealthy St. SE
Cozy environment with plenty of seating for a long work session. Just a few steps away from local restaurants and The Meanwhile bar for those marathon work sessions that go late into the night. Its new West Side location is soon to open its doors at 442 Bridge St NW.
The Bitter End Coffeehouse - 752 West Fulton
A long standing classic study and work spot on the West Side, few things have changed at this beautiful location that is situated in a century-old bank building.
Madcap Coffee - 98 Monroe Center NW
The favorite spot for all the downtown movers and shakers. Madcap is beautifully designed from its exterior down to its tea serving boards and pots. With two other locations at The Downtown Market and at 1041 East Fulton St., Madcap is everywhere, and if for some wild reason you haven’t been inside, just explore your instagram feed. A friend in your group has likely instagrammed their latte art...this week.
Squibb Coffee & Wine Bar - 955 Wealthy St. SE
You read the correctly...AND wine bar. Sure, The Meanwhile is on the other block, but when you are settling into a good book or on a killer work streak, why break it with walking out? Especially during a harsh Michigan winter. (It’s never too early to say Winter Is Coming in Michigan)
Lightfast Coffee + Art Collective - 944 East Fulton St.
A selection of tasty baked goods, chocolates and art is a recipe for success for this newer coffee shop on Fulton Street.
Lantern Coffee Bar & Lounge - 100 Commerce SE
Art, cozy environment and some of the comfiest seats to sit back, forget about work and concentrate on a strong brew.
Mayan Buzz Cafe - 208 Grandville Ave SW
A stone’s throw from Founder’s Brewing and The Rapid Central Station, Mayan Buzz has long been the home for marathon work sessions thanks to their early and late hours. If you’re looking for something more be sure to head on Thursday nights for their open mic nights!
Rowsters Coffee - 632 Wealthy St. SE
Clean lines in design, strong coffee and regular art showings from local artists. Rowsters recently opened the Rowers Club on the West Side at 616 West Fulton to expand access to their delightful brews.
Ferris Coffee & Nut - 227 Winter Ave NW
With locations on both the West Side and downtown in the Trust Building, Ferris coffee carries all the treats and brews you could need for a relaxing time.
Lyon St. Cafe - 617 Lyon St. NE
It is hard to beat a coffee shop nestled in the border of Midtown, that sources its treats from Nantucket Bakery and has Martha’s Vineyard just a few doors down. An excellent spot to work, meet and to just lose yourself in a tasty cup.
As always, if we missed your favorite spot let us know in the comments!
R.I.P. Kava House for all those who remember...but also check out
That Early Bird
Ken Miguel-Cipriano is Rapid Growth’s innovation and jobs editor. To reach Ken, you can email [email protected] or follow him on Twitter and Instagram.
Images courtesy of The Bitter End, Rowster, The Sparrows Coffee Tea & Newsstand, Mayan Buzz Cafe, MadCap Coffee, Lyon St. Cafe, Lantern Coffee Bar & Lounge, Squibb Coffee & Wine Bar
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