DETROIT'S 7 BEST COFFEE SHOPS
With artists, entrepreneurs, and tourists flooding to Detroit, the coffee scene is growing so quickly that you’re more likely to stumble upon an independent coffee shop than a Starbucks. If you’re looking to “work from anywhere” or grab a cold brew on your way to Belle Isle, you’ll find that Detroit is brewing up some hot new trends at these local coffee shops.
Anthology Coffee
If you’re a craft coffee lover, this place is worth the splurge--and the wait, but if you’re looking to make a quick coffee run, this isn’t for you. They offer single-origin coffee and you can watch these seasoned baristas hand pour your drink with finesse and care. Not a coffee expert? Don’t be intimidated. The Anthology Coffee baristas just want to make sure you’re satisfied with your (fancy) cup of joe. They offer weekly coffee classes, if you’re interested. They also have rotating pastries, but this isn’t the place to stop for lunch, nor is it a place to spend hours upon hours. Pro tip: park in the lot, order a pour-over, watch them work, and enjoy that elaborately-made drink in their industrial-style building.
1401 Vermont St, Detroit, MI 48216
ASHE Supply Co.
They embody their mantra, “drink coffee, live wild,” with their motorcycle-themed decor. Roasted in-house, they have coffee beans from countries like Colombia, Costa Rica, and Kenya. For non-milk alternatives, they carry almond milk and Oatly-brand oat milk (which goes great with their matcha latte), but no soy. They offer local bagels and pastries, but the food options are limited (especially for vegans). As a frequent patron, I love the atmosphere. At their second location, on Jos Campau, there’s a coffee bar, live music on Thursdays, and boozy coffee drinks thanks to the neighboring Atwater Brewery. Pro tip: check out the Jos Campeau location which offers free parking.
1555 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226
Astro Coffee
At the end of Detroit’s Corktown, Astro Coffee is on the same block as Sugarhouse and Slows Bar BQ. This quiet cafe serves a fantastic egg sandwich made with scrambled eggs and herbs. They carry a variety of vegan and non-vegan pastries, but the supply quickly runs out as the day goes on. Their coffee roasters are from Oregon, San Francisco, Acton, and of course, Detroit (Anthology). Although they claim to have free wifi, don’t count on that. Bring a book or a friend and enjoy a cold brew or flat white (my personal favorites).
2124 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
The Bottom Line Coffee House
In Midtown, you’ll find this lower-level coffee house is great for sitting outdoors, setting up collaborative study sessions, and enjoying local talent. At their open-mic nights, Bottom Line invites poets, musicians, comedians, and artists to perform. They use Chicago’s Intelligentsia coffee and tea and they sell sandwiches and pastries from Detroit’s Avalon Bakery. Unlike other coffee shops in the city, this one stays open until 9 pm and even later for events. They sell records, books, mugs, and shirts supporting the “Detroit Grind.” Pro tip: this is a popular Wayne State hang so expect lots of students and backpacks.
4474 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company
Part coffee shop, part wine bar, this cafe serves handmade salads and sandwiches (including avocado toast), as well as coffee, craft beer, and wine. With a variety of seating options--from a high-top bar to a picnic-style table--you’ll find it suits parties of all sizes. If you want to enjoy the open space, get there early, because this place fills up fast. Located in a 130-year old building, the cafe features rotating work from local artists. Personally, I love the exposed brick and the fresh flowers. Their coffee beans are so good, they’re used by cafes all over the state. Pro tip: if you want to enjoy the patio, leave your laptop in the car, because they don’t allow it.
3965 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Red Hook
This is my favorite coffee shop in the city. The name derives from the owners' local Brooklyn neighborhood, Red Hook. Located in the heart of the Indian Village neighborhood, it’s brightly lit and colorful with live plants, marble tabletops, peacocks painted on the ceiling, and outdoor seating. Looking to jump on the charcoal latte bandwagon? Red Hook has you covered. They also sell a lavender latte (which is best served over ice, if you ask me). Best of all, they sell Dilla’s Donuts (including vegan options like the sweet-potato donut which doesn’t taste at all like sweet potatoes, trust me). They also have a Ferndale location for those who want to wander outside of Downtown (but there’s way less seating).
8025 Agnes St, Detroit, MI 48214
Roasting Plant
If you’re wandering through Campus Martius, you’ll want to check out Roasting Plant. Known for their exotic-style beans (brought in from places like the Carribean, Hawaii, and Indonesia), they use their own roasting technique called Javabot. You’ll love seeing the rows upon rows of beans, but if you’re visiting during the weekday, expect long lines of business professionals and difficult parking. The place is great for a one-on-one meeting, but don’t expect a quiet or cozy workspace. Go for the coffee and stay to watch the brewing process in action.
660 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226