I’m one of those “weird” people who don’t drink caffeine, but that doesn’t stop me from enjoying any and every local coffee shop decaf espresso I can get my hands on. But if I’m being honest, I think I derive most of my enjoyment from the vibe of a good, cozy cafe. I’m no Starbucks hater, but you can’t beat the ambiance of a carefully crafted coffee shop aesthetic, a passionate barista, and unique drink selections. If you’re equally in love with the whole “going out for coffee” experience, you’ve got to check these places out.

1. Ember and Bean (Oakdale MN and Hudson WI)

You may have heard of Ember and Bean’s location in Hudson, WI, but did you know they have another newer location located within Norhart’s Apartment building in Oakdale? A big perk to this location is the inclusion of an indoor parking garage for those chilly winter days when you need to warm up with a hot latte. 

The Oakdale location is super family-friendly with a designated kids area equipped with toys, games, and a cute teepee. I personally love their mochas, and my kids enjoyed their hot cocoas that the baristas jazzed up with some whipped cream and sprinkles. 

Their Hudson location is super cute and quaint, tucked away in a small building close to the river. I love that you can grab a coffee and hang out in their cute cafe, or take it to go and enjoy the water views while taking a walk. 

2. Green Bridge Coffee (Stillwater MN)

Stillwater is one of my favorite places. I love everything about it. One of my husband’s and my favorite places to go while we’re there is Green Bridge Coffee. It’s got a cool, minimalist look with local art hanging up and an e-bike rental place in the back of the cafe.

We’ve gone many times over the years and always love the relaxed and welcoming vibe from the employees behind the counter. The coffee is great and the location is top notch. It’s the perfect place to get a coffee before heading up the hill to Teddy Bear Park with the kids to get their energy out. 

3. Sunshine Coffee Co (Lake Elmo MN)

Sunshine Coffee certainly lives up to their name with their cheerful interior decorating and plenty of places to sit outside and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. While the inside is very small, they make up for it with chairs and tables outside when the weather is nice. Their location on Lake Elmo’s cute main drag is nice and central, and only a two minute walk to the Lake Elmo Library. 

4. MADE Coffee (Stillwater MN)

While MADE doesn’t make my absolute favorite coffee in the world (It’s still good! It’s just more of a high end bean that tastes slightly bitter to me), I had to include them just because I love their location. They’re located right next to the staircase in Stillwater on Main Street. You can climb the historic stairs (all 119 of them!) to help get your daily steps in, then walk right over to MADE and reward yourself with a sweet treat, like one of their pastries or gluten-free granola bars. 

There are so many local non-chain coffee options, which ones are your favorites? Share below in the comments!