Discovering the Best Coffee Shops on the North Shore

If you’re heading to Northern Minnesota along Lake Superior, either for skiing at Lutsen Mountains or to explore the breathtaking North Shore of Lake Superior, one thing’s for sure: You’ll need a good cup of coffee to fuel your adventures. This scenic area may be known for its outdoor beauty, but it also boasts some fantastic local coffee spots. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cafe after a day of exploring or simply want to experience local Minnesota coffee, this guide will introduce you to some of the best coffee shops on the North Shore of Lake Superior.

Fika Coffee – The Must-Visit Spot in Lutsen

The Lutsen spot for a cup of joe is Fika Coffee (pictured above). And that’s not just because it’s the only dedicated coffee shop in Lutsen. Located in the heart of this charming town, Fika Coffee is a beloved coffee shop that epitomizes the cozy, welcoming feel of the North Shore.

The name “Fika” comes from the Swedish word that refers to taking a long break to enjoy coffee. Often, paired with a pastry and good conversation. It’s a tradition that reflects the shop’s laid-back yet thoughtful approach to coffee.

Here, the beans are sourced ethically, with an emphasis on sustainability and quality, making Fika a standout among Minnesota coffee roasters. Starting in 2026, their roasting operation has been moved to their new Roastery in Grand Marais, which will also open to the public at some point in time. Since they roast their beans locally, each cup is as fresh and flavorful as possible. Whether you’re a fan of pour-over coffee or prefer a rich, bold espresso, Fika Coffee Lutsen has you covered.

Locals and visitors alike flock to this coffee shop. And not just for its outstanding brews but also for the relaxing atmosphere. Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Lutsen and Grand Marais, it’s the perfect spot to unwind, chat with friends, or catch up on your reading.

Java Moose Espresso Cafe – The Premiere Coffee Shop in Grand Marais

In the quaint town of Grand Marais, you’ll find Java Moose Espresso Cafe. This North Shore gem is the perfect stop after a day hiking around the area’s state parks. They serve a wide variety of coffee drinks, from lattes to cold brews. Plus, they have some tasty baked goods to go along with your hot beverage.

Java Moose is a family-owned operation that has been serving up brews on the Grand Marais Harbor for over 20 years. Making this the oldest coffee shop in the area! The years have given them time to perfect their craft and get creative with their coffee concoctions. Choose from the Maple Latte, Nordic Miel Latte, the Harbor Fog, or the Huckleberry Shores for a taste of the North Shore.

In recent years, Java Moose has become famous for something else entirely: The North Shore weather report! Be sure to follow Java Moose on Instagram for owner Sarah Jorgenson-Hallberg’s daily Grand Marais weather and event reports.

Cedar Coffee Company – The Must-Stop Coffee Shop in Two Harbors

Located next to a large commercial area, you wouldn’t think Cedar Coffee Company could pull off the woodster feel, but, somehow, they do. Surrounded by half a mile of maintained hiking trails, this hidden little coffee shop is your must-stop destination in Two Harbors. Combine the wooded atmosphere with their home-roasted brews and you have the perfect combination for a peaceful coffee shop retreat. Grab a cup and sit back and relax. Or, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the wooded lot. Close to everything but it feels miles away.

Cedar Coffee Company is located at 1130 11th Street in Two Harbors, Minnesota. Not on Lake Superior, but a lovely Northwoods coffee shop for guests staying in Lake County or passing through and wanting a cup of coffee with a good vibe.

Timber Coffee Company – Silver Bay’s First, and Only, Coffee Shop

Growing up in Silver Bay, I could only dream of there being a coffee shop in Silver Bay. Now, there is! Timber Coffee Company is the small town coffee shop located on Outer Drive near downtown Silver Bay. They serve a full menu of hot and cold coffee brews using Fika coffee beans, a wide variety of teas, and even a saplings menu for the younger crowd. Offering a variety of fresh baked goods made onsite, plus coffee beans, and a small gift selection.

This is Silver Bay’s must-stop coffee shop, and not just because it’s the only coffee shop. The bright, welcoming atmosphere invites you in and the good company makes your want to keep coming back day after day. Swing in the next time you’re in Silver Bay!

More Coffee Shops in Minnesota’s North Shore Region

There are a few other coffee spots along the North Shore that are well worth visiting. Here are a few more notable places where you can enjoy some of the best coffee shops in Northern Minnesota.

  • Coho Café & Bakery (Tofte): Located in the town of Tofte, the Coho Café & Bakery is another great coffee option. They serve excellent coffee, but the real draw is the fresh bakery items. Choose from a selection of scones, muffins, and their famous wild rice bread. They also offer a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu to help nourish and energize you. This spot is ideal for a coffee break while enjoying the natural surroundings.
  • Crosby Bakery (Grand Marais): The newest addition to the Grand Marais coffee scene is Crosby Bakery located right in downtown Grand Marais. Known for its amazing sourdough bread, carrot cake cookies, and pies, Crosby Bakery is the place to go for a cup of coffee with a delicious baked good to go with it.
  • Lockport Marketplace (Lutsen): Also located in Lutsen, but often overlooked, is the quaint Lockport Marketplace. The marketplace is a gas station, convenience store, and a hidden gem of a restaurant. A restaurant that also serves up a lovely cup of coffee. Have a bit to eat at their outdoor seating in the summer or their indoor dining room in the winter.
  • Loons Nest Coffee (Gunflint Trail): Coffee in the wild (and worth the drive)! Loons Nest Coffee is another new(er) addition to the coffee shop scene on the North Shore. Opened as a coffee truck in 2022 and in their physical location on Poplar Lake in 2023, Loons Nest is a coffee shop surrounded by the vast wilderness of the BWCA. Open from May through October, Loons Nest is also known for its unique food menu taking dish ideas straight from the North Shore wilderness.
  • Schroeder Baking Company (Schroeder): Right off Highway 61 in the small village of Schroeder you will find the Schroeder Baking Company. Stop in for a cup of coffee, fresh baked goods, or grab a pizza for lunch. Only open during the summer months, this seasonal favorite is a popular Highway 61 stop.
Minnesota Coffee Roasters – Supporting the Community

The rise of artisanal coffee culture has brought attention to Minnesota coffee roasters. Many of whom are dedicated to sourcing and roasting high-quality beans. Fika Coffee is one such roaster that has garnered attention for its dedication to craftsmanship.

In addition to their dedication to quality coffee, Fika Coffee is committed to supporting the local community. According to their website, they believe that coffee brings people together. It’s a reason to linger, a reason to talk, a reason to ask good questions. Coffee concentrates similarities and diffuses differences. It can make friends from strangers, family from friends, and neighborhoods from city streets. Coffee is community. Even more than that, Fika is community coffee. In 2021, Fika partnered with Java Moose to create a custom Sisu Coffee Blend. Proceeds from the blend went into a community fund. The fund aimed to help small businesses succeed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. While no longer available, the blend shows Fika and Java Moose’s dedication and love for their community.

One of the joys of exploring coffee in Minnesota is the opportunity to try locally roasted beans that reflect the care and attention to detail of these passionate artisans. Whether you’re a connoisseur of single-origin beans or just love a good cup of drip coffee, you’ll find plenty to appreciate in the coffee culture in and around Lutsen.

Time to Experience It Yourself

Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of the North Shore or cozying up in front of your fireplace at your North Shore vacation rental for a winter getaway, the coffee shops on Minnesota’s North Shore will keep you energized and satisfied. Next time you’re planning a trip to this stunning part of the state, make sure to add these coffee stops to your itinerary.