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If you love coffee, you know there’s the standard stuff you can pick up from just about anywhere, and then there are places that go above and beyond. An excellent cup of coffee is second to none and the coffee shops that are committed to high-quality coffee are worth making a stop for. Metro Detroit has become a hub for coffee enthusiasts, boasting an array of unique coffee shops that offer more than just a caffeine fix. If you’re looking for your new go-to, check out these local coffee shops serving up delicious coffee. Consider it a caffeine quest for the coffee-obsessed. I promise you won’t be disappointed!
MILWAUKEE CAFFE
447 East Milwaukee Avenue, Detroit
Milwaukee Caffe, nestled in Detroit’s Milwaukee Junction, offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. This Italian-inspired coffee bar is known for its minimalist decor, friendly staff, and amazing coffee. The perfect spot to relax or converse with friends, Milwaukee Caffe serves coffee roasted by local roasters, like Anthology. The menu features a variety of expertly brewed beverages, from mochas and Cortados to 24-hour steeped cold brews and Shakeratos (an iced Americano shaken, a touch of cream, and simple syrup). It’s a go-to for a reason. While picking up your afternoon pick-me-up, check out the original and classic cocktails from Kiesling that are available to take home from Milwaukee Caffe too.
COFFEE DOWN UNDER
607 Shelby Street Basement, Detroit
Melbourne-inspired and Detroit-founded, Coffee Down Under brings Australian roasts to Michigan. Located in the heart of Detroit’s Financial District, Coffee Down Under presents espresso-based drinks and drip coffee, along with a selection of teas, chai, and hot chocolate. This basement cafe has cold brew for the hottest days, with flat whites, cappuccino, and macchiatos for those hot coffee lovers. Pick up a fresh pastry and a deliciously made cup of coffee, and start your day off with a kick of espresso.
FARMHOUSE COFFEE & ICE CREAM
29936 West 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills
For those seeking a blend of coffee and sweet treats, Farmhouse Coffee & Ice Cream is a must-visit. This charming shop offers a delightful combination of high-quality coffee and artisanal ice cream, proudly offering a ‘family-owned community oasis’. The beans here are roasted locally and can’t be found anywhere else! On the menu, you’ll find lattes ranging from honey and cinnamon to lavender, raspberry white mochas, frozen coffees, and more. Pair your beverage with a breakfast sandwich, a fresh salad, or a scoop of ice cream or two.
DRIFTER COFFEE
770 Woodward Heights, Ferndale
Drifter Coffee is a mobile coffee shop turned brick-and-mortar establishment. Known for its welcoming vibe and commitment to ‘community lovin’ and damn tasty coffee’, Drifter Coffee offers a unique and inviting space for coffee enthusiasts. On the menu, you’ll find all the classics you could want, along with a great selection of seasonal beverages to keep things interesting, like the toasted coconut, ube matcha, and lavender haze lattes.
DESSERT OASIS COFFEE ROASTERS
Multiple locations in Metro Detroit
A cornerstone of the Metro Detroit coffee scene, Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters (DOCR) has been serving exceptional coffee for years. Nathan Hamood, President and Director of Coffee, shares his pride in the coffee scene: “We’re so proud of the Metro Detroit coffee scene and all of the progress we’ve made as a coffee community, and are so proud to be a part of it for the last 15 years and counting. With its 4 locations around Metro Detroit, DOCR seeks to deliver exceptional experiences through its award-winning coffees, house-made desserts, and its welcoming and intentional approach to customer service and community. We have some spectacular signature drinks and seasonal desserts, along with our mainstays of expertly crafted coffee drinks and treats…” DOCR offers a range of sugar-free options, syrups made in-house ranging from honey and cinnamon to lavender or rose, spicy mochas, and seasonal specials like the Café Lemonada, which combines espresso and coffee syrup with strawberry and lime flavors. Whether you’re indulging in a signature drink or a mainstay coffee, each visit promises a delightful experience.
THE RED DOT COFFEE COMPANY
505 North Center Street, Northville
The Red Dot Coffee Company stands out with its commitment to quality and community engagement. Founded on the idea of offering a gathering space where all could feel encouraged, this cafe has prioritized recognizing the farmers we all can thank for harvesting excellent coffee beans. You can find a range of handcrafted coffee here, each drink made with care, from the nitro brew float to the 505, featuring two shots of espresso with 5 grams of honey shaken, then poured over ice. For a filling pairing, check out the selection of croissants and macarons, all thanks to Golden Wheat Bakery.
CAFE ALTO
3100 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
Cafe Alto combines a passion for coffee with a dedication to community. This cafe partners with local favorites like Guernsey Farms Dairy and White Wolf for its beans, dairy, pastries, and more. With its airy design and exceptional coffee, Cafe Alto has quickly become a favorite among locals. Check out the Coffee Palmer, cardamom latte, or keep things simple with a cup of a fresh brew. Regardless of the beverage you order, you’re certain to be satisfied.
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on May 3, 2023, and was authored by Katie Goncalves.
