Vote For Your Favorite Coffee Shop In Central Minnesota

Central Minnesotans take their coffee seriously. Whether it’s a quick cup on the way to work, a long conversation with friends, or a quiet corner to get some work done, a great coffee shop becomes part of your daily life. Don't mess with my coffee routine!

The Star Tribune’s 'Central Minnesota’s Best' contest continues, and today we're looking at which Central Minnesota Coffee Shop will be number one?

UNIQUE COFFEE JOINTS AROUND CENTRAL MINNESOTA

This year’s nominees represent some great places around the state, and several that I've visited. Each one has its own unique coffee taste...I don't know how they can all be so different, but they are. Have you visited any of these contenders?

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ROCK CREEK COFFEEHOUSE -Formerly in Sauk Rapids

I'm very familiar with Rock Creek Coffeehouse. It was located in Sauk Rapids for many years, and was the kind of place where regulars felt at home, and newcomers quickly became part of the community. With comfortable seating and a menu that covers all the classics, it was a dependable stop for a quality cup of coffee and a relaxed vibe. However! If you stop by Rock Creek Coffeehouse now, you'll find that it no longer exists. Rock Creek is now Kinder Coffee Lab. So hats off to those who nominated this place that was so lovely in Sauk Rapids, but if you stop by, just remember that Rock Creek is now Kinder Coffee Lab.

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KINDER COFFEE LAB St.Cloud/Sauk Rapids

Speaking of Kinder Coffee Lab, they've been nominated too! Kinder Coffee offers a more modern approach. As the name suggests, this shop focuses on the science and craft of coffee. Customers can expect carefully sourced beans, precise brewing methods, and a menu that highlights the art of specialty coffee. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy trying new roasts and experiencing coffee as more than just a morning routine. They also offer their coffee to various groups to help them raise money for their causes. Kinder Coffee Lab...congrats on your nomination.

8TH AVENUE DINER - Pipestone

8th Avenue Diner proves that a great cup of coffee doesn’t always come from a traditional coffee shop. Diners have long been the heart of small-town communities, and this one keeps that tradition alive. With hearty breakfasts, friendly faces, and coffee that keeps flowing, it’s a place where conversations are just as important as the caffeine. Have you been?

KORPPI COFFEE - St. Cloud

Korppi Coffee + Bakeshop combines high-quality coffee with fresh, handcrafted baked goods. The shop has built a reputation for creative flavors, beautiful pastries, and a welcoming, modern atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you might stop in for a latte and end up leaving with a box of treats. Yes. I have.

EMBER COFFEE COMPANY Big Lake

Ember Coffee Co. has become a destination for coffee lovers who appreciate both quality and community. Known for its carefully roasted beans and inviting space, Ember has developed a strong local following. It’s a popular choice for meetings, study sessions, or simply enjoying a well-made drink. Should we go?

COMMON GROUNDS 218 - Longville

Common Grounds 218 lives up to its name by serving as a gathering place for the community. With comfortable seating, friendly staff, and a relaxed environment, it’s a spot where people come not just for coffee, but for connection. It’s a reminder that coffee shops are often about people as much as they are about the drinks.

LIFEHOUSE COFFEE- Pine River

Lifehouse Coffee rounds out the list with its welcoming atmosphere and mission-driven approach. Many customers appreciate the positive environment and sense of purpose behind the shop, along with the reliable coffee and friendly service.

WHO WILL BE OUR COFFEE CHAMP?

Now it’s up to the public to decide which of these nominees deserves the top spot. Voting for the Star Tribune’s Central Minnesota’s Best contest is open now, giving coffee lovers a chance to support their favorite local hangout. You can vote for your favorites once a day until February 25th.

Central Minnesota’s coffee scene has something for everyone. And this contest is a great reminder to stop in, try a new place, and cast your vote for the shop that keeps you coming back for more.  Click HERE to place your votes for The Best of Central MN.