Coffee: The Best of the Twin Cities
Clara
A poor Ethiopian sheep herder discovered coffee hundreds of years ago. Now, coffee is the number 2 most popular commodity traded across the globe. Almost everywhere you go, you see Starbucks or Caribou. I am a huge fan of coffee, as well as desserts that go with coffee. I like to dig deeper though, and go to the smaller independent shops. I have made a list of 3 of my favorite cafés in St. Paul/Minneapolis, and what’s so good about them.
Kopplin's (490 Hamline Ave. S., St. Paul, 55116)
Photo credit: Mykl Roventine / Flickr.com
Tucked in the middle of several other shops, Kopplin’s doesn’t look like much on the outside. Walk inside though, and you’re greeted with a warm, welcoming café, fashionably decorated, and cozy. Even though the espresso is a bit more expensive, it is definitely worth it. The milk they use is from grass fed cows, and their espresso is perfectly roasted. With all their espresso drinks, there is unique espresso art made on the foam. For those of you who don’t care for espresso, Kopplin’s makes fantastic hot chocolate, using delicious rich chocolate with your choice of milk or dark, topped with creamy whipped cream. Besides the beverages, the bakery items are amazing. (I’m a big fan of the currant scones, but I’d recommend them all!) NOTE: Kopplin's does not serve decaf espresso. However, check out one of their amazing steamers or hot chocolates!
Nina's Café (165 Western Ave., St. Paul, 55102)
Photo credit: Tasha Radloff
Located in a fantastic old neighborhood of St. Paul, Nina’s Cafe is a busy yet comfortable coffee shop. Whether you’re in for coffee and dessert, breakfast, lunch or dinner, Nina’s has the perfect thing for you!
Beside having great espresso, Nina’s has wonderful food. They have amazing cardamom cookies, delicious oatmeal and great soups. The atmosphere is always busy, but you can always find a cozy spot to rest a while. On weekends Nina’s hosts music nights where you can enjoy fine music with your beverage or dinner.
Beside having great espresso, Nina’s has wonderful food. They have amazing cardamom cookies, delicious oatmeal and great soups. The atmosphere is always busy, but you can always find a cozy spot to rest a while. On weekends Nina’s hosts music nights where you can enjoy fine music with your beverage or dinner.
Cupcake (3338 University Ave. SE., Minneapolis, 55414)
Photo credit: Cupcake (Modified by Etty)
The name says it all. Cupcake makes amazing cupcakes. The variety of cupcakes available varies every day, but you can be sure to find at least one you like, as their flavors vary from chocolate hazelnut to banana cream, chai tea to orange dream, coconut to caramel apple, and many many more! They have wonderful beverages: smoothies, espresso and teas, and also many great food items including paninis, salads and soups. Cupcake has something for everyone, especially the sweet tooths!
DIRECTIONS
Kopplin's Nina's Cupcake
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