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

No conversation about coffee in Lutsen is complete without mentioning Fika Coffee in Lutsen (pictured above). And that’s not just because it’s the only 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. They roast their beans on-site, ensuring that 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, 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 the Superior Hiking Trail or exploring 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.

More Coffee Shops in Minnesota’s North Shore Region

While Fika Coffee may be the go-to in Lutsen and Java Moose to go-to in Grand Marais, there are a few other coffee spots along the North Shore that are well worth visiting. After all, when you’re exploring this area, you’re likely venturing beyond Lutsen into nearby towns like Grand Marais or Tofte. Here are a few more notable places where you can enjoy some of the best coffee shops in Northern Minnesota.

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Ironclad Cáfe (Grand Marais): New to the North Shore coffee scene, Ironclad Cáfe is a mobile coffee shop truck that served its first cup of brew in 2024. Boasting responsibly and locally sourced ingredients for a truly authentic taste and experience!
  • 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.
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.