Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a city known for its vibrant culture, craft breweries, and, most importantly, an impressive coffee scene. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur searching for the perfect pour-over or someone who just enjoys a cozy café atmosphere, Grand Rapids has something for everyone. With a mix of artisanal roasters, hip espresso bars, and community-driven coffee shops, this city is a haven for caffeine lovers.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the best coffee spots in Grand Rapids, highlighting what makes each place unique. From third-wave coffee shops serving single-origin beans to local favorites that have stood the test of time, this list will help you discover where to get your next great cup of coffee.
1. Madcap Coffee
📍 Address: 98 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
⭐ Best For: Specialty Coffee & Artisanal Roasting
Madcap Coffee is undoubtedly one of the most well-known coffee roasters in Grand Rapids. Established in 2008, Madcap has built a strong reputation for sourcing high-quality, ethically grown coffee beans and meticulously roasting them to perfection. Their downtown location is sleek and minimalist, letting the coffee take center stage.
What to Order:
- Pour-over coffee – Madcap’s single-origin beans truly shine in this method.
- Madcap Nitro Cold Brew – A smooth, velvety, nitrogen-infused coffee experience.
- Cappuccino – Perfectly balanced with a creamy texture.
If you’re serious about coffee, Madcap is a must-visit. They frequently rotate their beans and offer seasonal blends, so you’ll always have something new to try.
2. Ferris Coffee & Nut Co.
📍 Address: 227 Winter Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
⭐ Best For: Locally Roasted Beans & Classic Coffee Drinks
Ferris Coffee & Nut Co. has been part of Grand Rapids’ coffee scene since 1924. While they started as a nut company, they quickly gained a reputation for their exceptional coffee roasting. Their West Side café is a warm and inviting space, making it a great place to study, work, or catch up with friends.
What to Order:
- Honey Lavender Latte – A unique, floral-infused latte with the perfect amount of sweetness.
- Americano – Simple, smooth, and rich in flavor.
- House Blend Coffee – A great everyday coffee with a well-balanced profile.
Ferris is also a great spot to buy locally roasted beans to brew at home. They offer a variety of blends and single-origin options.
3. Lantern Coffee Bar & Lounge
📍 Address: 100 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
⭐ Best For: Cozy Atmosphere & Ethical Sourcing
If you’re looking for a cozy underground café with a relaxed vibe, Lantern Coffee Bar & Lounge is the place to go. This shop takes sustainability seriously, sourcing only fair-trade, organic beans and focusing on ethical partnerships with farmers.
What to Order:
- Vanilla Bean Latte – Made with real vanilla bean and the perfect espresso pull.
- Drip Coffee – Simple, bold, and perfectly brewed.
- Espresso Macchiato – A shot of rich espresso topped with a small amount of steamed milk.
Lantern Coffee’s downstairs seating area is a great spot to relax with a book or have a quiet meeting. Their dedication to high-quality, ethically sourced coffee makes them a standout choice.
4. Squibb Coffee & Wine Bar
📍 Address: 955 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
⭐ Best For: Coffee and Wine Lovers
Squibb Coffee & Wine Bar is the perfect place for those who love both coffee and fine wines. Located in the Wealthy Street District, Squibb offers a unique combination of third-wave coffee and an extensive selection of wines.
What to Order:
- Flat White – Smooth and creamy, with perfectly micro-foamed milk.
- Espresso Flight – A great way to sample their expertly pulled shots.
- Matcha Latte – A delicious option for tea lovers.
Squibb’s atmosphere is chic yet welcoming, making it a great spot to work during the day and enjoy a glass of wine in the evening.
5. Rowster Coffee
📍 Address: 632 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
⭐ Best For: Small-Batch Roasting & Modern Aesthetic
Rowster Coffee is a local favorite that prides itself on small-batch roasting, ensuring that every cup is fresh and full of flavor. Their sleek, modern café on Wealthy Street is perfect for those who appreciate minimalist aesthetics and high-quality coffee.
What to Order:
- Pour-over Coffee – Showcasing the bright and nuanced flavors of their beans.
- Mocha Latte – A rich, chocolatey espresso drink that isn’t too sweet.
- Nitro Cold Brew – Velvety smooth and refreshing.
Rowster also offers coffee subscriptions, so you can enjoy their expertly roasted beans at home.
6. Outside Coffee Co.
📍 Address: 734 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
⭐ Best For: Outdoor Coffee Experience & Unique Drinks
Outside Coffee Co. offers one of the most unique coffee experiences in Grand Rapids. This café operates entirely outdoors, with a small trailer serving up some of the best coffee drinks in the city. It’s a perfect spot for those who enjoy sipping coffee while basking in nature.
What to Order:
- Golden Milk Latte – A turmeric-infused, warm and comforting drink.
- Campfire Latte – A s’mores-inspired latte topped with toasted marshmallow.
- Cold Brew – Crisp, bold, and perfect for a warm day.
With fire pits and cozy seating, Outside Coffee Co. provides a laid-back and fun atmosphere year-round.
7. The Sparrows Coffee & Tea & Newsstand
📍 Address: 1035 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506
⭐ Best For: A Literary Café Experience
The Sparrows Coffee & Tea & Newsstand is a beloved neighborhood coffee shop that also functions as a newsstand, offering a great selection of magazines and books. This café is the perfect place for those who love to sip on quality coffee while reading.
What to Order:
- Dirty Chai Latte – A spiced chai latte with an espresso shot for an extra kick.
- London Fog – Earl Grey tea with steamed milk and vanilla.
- Seasonal Lattes – Their rotating menu of creative lattes is always worth trying.
Sparrows offers a welcoming and inclusive space, making it a favorite among locals.
8. Common Ground Coffee House
📍 Address: 1319 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
⭐ Best For: Community-Oriented Café
Common Ground Coffee House is a cozy and community-driven café known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great spot to work, study, or just enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.
What to Order:
- Pumpkin Spice Latte (seasonal) – A fall favorite with real pumpkin and spices.
- Classic Latte – Simple and delicious.
- Iced Mocha – A chocolatey, refreshing treat.
Common Ground also supports local artists and businesses, making it a true community staple.
Conclusion: The Best Coffee in Grand Rapids Awaits
Grand Rapids’ coffee scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you prefer a meticulously brewed pour-over, a creamy latte, or a cozy neighborhood café, there’s a perfect spot for you in this city. From the renowned Madcap Coffee to the hidden gem of Outside Coffee Co., each shop offers something unique.
Next time you’re in Grand Rapids, take the time to explore these coffee shops and discover your new favorite cup. Whether you’re looking for the best espresso, a quiet place to work, or just a friendly neighborhood café, Grand Rapids has a coffee shop that will make your day better.
So, which one will you try first? Let us know your favorite spot for coffee in Grand Rapids! ☕
