My iced americano was strong and delicious. I love that they have a little free library. Service…read morewas friendly. Parking is tough and the chairs are uncomfortable. I would love to see some reading chairs.

Service was great. I went with my grandma, who can be slow and get confused, and the staff was very…read moresweet and helpful. Pros: Truly well made espresso. Very tasty muffins. Great service. Enough open seating for a Saturday morning. Cons: Parking was difficult. The chairs in the shop are uncomfortable small stools. Limited selection of pastries/ food. I also got a banana latte and a plain latte, and could not taste a difference between the two. They both tasted like plain (but very well made) lattes. But if you like a sweet flavored latte, this may not be the best place.

Stopped in for a recent Silent Book Club event. I drive past this location often, but never stop…read morein, so I'm glad I had a reason to. Parking is available on the street or in a lot across the street The space inside is very nice and accommodating. There are booths, chairs, and private spaces. Menu is so fun. There are options for traditional standards, but also fantastic seasonal choices. I tried an orange almond latte from the seasonal menu, and it was so tasty! Not a combo I would have thought of. Now that I know of this locale, I will definitely stop by again.

I've been going to this location for about a year, ever since I moved in the area, so I have a lot…read moreto say. I've thought about writing a review for a while, as I've been dissappointed by them many times, but today was kind of my breaking point. Firstly, the coffee is just fine and can be inconsistent. The large has FOUR shots which is insane (that's like 250mg of caffeine which is weird imo to have as the default for a large) and there's not a lot of flavor to any of their drinks, even the specialized ones. My friend got a white chocolate ube latte when they visited a couple months back, and it was so bland and dissapointing. I'm not expecting every drink to be overly flavorful or sugary sweet like Caribou, but when you order something like "ube white chocolate" it better taste like ube and white chocolate. Not slightly sweet coffee with milk. You really have to know what you like and how you like it to get a decent drink here. On the other hand, maybe you like simple drinks and that's fine too. If you just want a hot black coffee or an americano, you might enjoy this place. Espresso shots also blacken if they sit too long without being mixed with something else. Quite a few of the baristas let the finished espresso shots sit on the machine long enough that the shots go bad, and it's hard to enjoy the $8+ drink when it tastes poorly made and took 20 minutes to get. Which leads me into my next point... They are SLOW. This is my biggest issue with them. I often stop here before catching my bus to work and I try to give myself 15+ minutes of a gap because, even if I'm the only customer, the drink can take up to 10 minutes to make, depending on the barista. It's an iced mocha. They are located right next to the Green Line and several bus routes. This is a huge transit center for a lot of people commuting to work or the U, so a lot of customers don't have time to wait if they have somewhere to be. That brings us to today... This morning I got there 20-25 minutes early, right around when they opened at 7am. I wanted to sit with my coffee and scroll on my phone before catching my bus. There were 5 people in line when I got there and 1 barista, which I knew would probably mean I wouldn't have extra time to sit on my phone, but I didn't mind. Most of the time I get my coffee and go as soon as it's made, so it's not an issue. There is almost ALWAYS 1 barista on staff in the mornings, unless they are training someone. Mornings are busy, you need to staff them better (@ Dogwood management). Anyway, the barista was taking one order, making the order, taking one order, making the order, etc etc. I was a barista for several years and this figuratively kills me every time. Several of their baristas are (I'm assuming) trained to work like this. Their machines are able to pull 6 shots at a time, if someone wants a large and someone wants a small, you can pull those all at the same time. You can prep the drinks while the shots are going or take another order if everything's ready to go. You NEED to multitask, especially when there's people in line and you're the only one working. There were still 2 people in line in front of me after 15 minutes of waiting. In this time, 2 people came in, saw the line, and left, and someone who had been waiting in line behind me left as well. The barista also never said "I'll be right with you," or "thank you for your patience." When the person behind me left from the line she told another customer sitting at the bar area "if they can't wait, that's fine. I don't mind." I do lol. Hurry it up, girl. After about 15-20 minutes I had to leave or else I would miss my bus, so I left. I will say, there are a few baristas there who make good drinks very quick, but many of them either don't work the mornings often or have left in the past few months, so maybe I'm just missing out. As for the location, it's great in theory. Nice tall booths with lots of privacy and it feels cozy. Right next to transit so it feels accessible. That's it. The music is good sometimes. I dunno, it doesn't really matter all that much. Coffee is a luxury, you don't really need it, but it sucks all the same. They haven't changed in the entire year I've been going to them, and maybe they never will. Maybe they're fine with customers leaving because the wait is too long. The barista seemed to be. I got Caribou instead this morning and even with a long line I got my drink within 5 minutes of entering, so...success I guess? I just like supporting more local coffee shops, so it sucks to have to resort to Caribou or Starbucks when a local coffee shop (Dogwood) is on my way to work. That's it. Go or don't, it doesn't really matter. Some people seem to really like this place, it's not for me. I go there for convenience and pastries.

Is this, dare I say, the best coffee shop in the twin cities?…read more Their coffee is exceptional specialty coffee that doesn't need to hide behind syrups or gimmicky drinks. Their parking lot is massive and free. there is enough seating when you include the outdoor seating that you'll always find a spot. Prices are a bit higher than I'd want, but drip at 3.50 and a flat white at 5 is fair. Baristas seem competent. This might just be the best coffee shop in the twin cities

I stumbled upon SK Coffee the other day after my husband and I were in the area with some time to…read morekill. The atmosphere is very cool and laidback, there's plenty of open space and seating options with outlets close by. The decor is really fun and eclectic as well. I'm more of a chai latte person than a coffee person, so I was very pleasantly surprised to find out that they carry Chiya Chai from Namaste Cafe. I love being able to support multiple local businesses and find it really cool when places collaborate like that. The barista was also very nice and welcoming and did not seem bothered at all by me asking about their chai supplier. My husband tried their iced americano with oat milk and caramel and thought it was really good as well. I definitely would love to come back sometime soon and hang out.

It's been a few years since I've visited Lori's. Now that it's finally merged with Mim's into one…read morebig multi-room establishment there is still a separate identity for Lori's. The polished hardwood floors and wood tables and large windows give it a modern sleek look which seems to be the trend for coffee bars motif in this decade. This is a huge improvement from the old Lori's. I did have my usual brewed of dark roast and found it one of the best. I actually complimented the barista on the roast who didn't reveal any secrets but did say, "we make it strong". If you haven't been here for awhile give it a try as it's a perfect place for studying, working or just contemplating your life so far. This is more of a walk up place so there is no parking lot and since this is across from the campus you'll have to park well down the block of the many neighborhood street to the West. **Still great coffee but no longer good selection of pastries and fresh baked cookies. Barista, not the nice lady but heavy set man made insensitive comment.

Lori's is not a fancy place, so if you go in expecting a top-notch gourmet cup of espresso, you're…read moreprobably going to be disappointed. But that doesn't mean Lori's isn't worth stopping in. Here's what I love about Lori's: 1. It's an affordable, local small business that's essentially "on campus." I'd much rather spend my money here than on the overpriced coffee in the student center. 2. It's a community hub. People come here to share time with neighbors and classmates. There are plenty of regulars and the staff gets to know you and won't hesitate to pull out some recent photo and tell you a story. 3. THE SOUP. They have homemade soup every day for $3 (includes two slices of bread). They only cycle about two different kinds, but it's SO cheap and filling and wonderful on a cold winter day. When I forget my lunch, this is my go-to. 4. Patio/Seating/Mim's. It's attached to Mim's on the left (so you can get food AND coffee) and a large extra seating area on the right. It's a great place to cozy up and read. Also the patio is really nice in the summer, you can sit out on the lawn in the sunshine and watch people going about their business. I am very grateful for my reliable soup spot, and for cheap coffee on those cold mornings when you just can't wake yourself up. Thanks, Lori's!

We went on a Saturday morning, and it was definitely pretty busy! There was a line out the door,…read morebut luckily, there were plenty of seating areas. Tucked away in a cozy residential neighborhood, the cafe has a really warm and homey atmosphere, almost like you're visiting someone's house. The Garden Latte had a stronger rosemary flavor, which was definitely noticeable. The breakfast sandwich was yummy, and the Sparkling Blackberry Iced Tea was super refreshing! Overall, such a cute spot for a weekend breakfast or coffee run.

I'm so happy that we've finally got a locally-run coffee shop for the neighborhood! Karol Coffee…read morejust celebrated their one-year anniversary this spring, and they've established themselves so well. Their staff are so kind and welcoming, and their drinks high-quality with fresh beans. My parents say they're so spoiled on Karol's excellent drip coffee, they can no longer drink Starbucks and Caribou brews. I'm a latte-lover and love to see what their specials are. Current fav is the Girl Scout caramel delight-inspired. They get very creative with their flavors, such as their Garden Cookie Latte made with a rosemary sea salt and mocha syrup. This shop is also very kid-friendly, with a play area inside and outside. Fun Fact: Named after Karol Józef Wojtyła, better known as Pope John Paul II. Parking: free street parking, just know it's across the street from a school, so drive slow!

Happy Monday & Co. is such a cute spot! The coffee is so good, and it's the perfect place to get…read moresome work done, meet up with friends, or just hang out and enjoy your morning. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and I love how easy it is to spend a little time here. Definitely one of my favorite coffee spots when I'm looking for good coffee and a place to relax!

Pretty solid spot! I…read morelove how open it is here. It tends to be busy, so be ready for that! Lots of WFH folks and people catching up. I do enjoy that ambiance while working, but be prepared without headphones if that's not your vibe. I loved their matcha strawberry fields summer special, and grabbed a miel the second time. I really enjoy all the drinks I've had thus far, this little escape is perfect. You wouldn't think it's there with the mall being so nearby! Check this spot out for a little bit of peace, good working environment, and good drinks.

We tried to go once before but it was wall-to-wall people so didn't want to wait. This time it was…read morea relaxing, rainy morning and we were two of 4 people in the whole place. First off, whoever it was behind the counter was incredibly welcoming and friendly! It really set the tone for a good time. The overall vibe is really cozy, but I will say the random religious and conservative-leaning decor threw me off a bit. The food itself was pretty good. I got the oatcakes and my partner got a breakfast scramble lefse. The oat cakes were tasty but pretty doughy in the middle. I know that oats are more dense, but it seemed a little undercooked. The syrup was excellent; tasted like grade A natural stuff. The cardamom butter was disappointing, though. I love cardamom and wanted it to punch me in the face but there was barely any cardamom or cinnamon. Overall it's a nice spot to meet someone or a relaxing (early) breakfast before crowds roll in if you're in the area. I just probably wouldn't make a trip.

Food is so good! Service is very good. You need to go inside to order if you plan to sit outside…read more You order pay and get a number for your table outside. Food takes a little time to come out as this isn't fast food. It's very good food made to order. So settle in have a conversation and enjoy the wait. Before you know it a plate is brought to the table of deliciousness. Ambience probably depends on time of day time of year. This morning it's pretty quiet relaxing vibe on a sidewalk with a slight breeze clear skies and relaxation in the air.

Met up with a friend to go over some work related things at Momo Cafe a few months ago and had a…read moregreat experience. We went late on a weekend morning and the place was packed. Momo Cafe is owned by the same family who own my favorite sushi restaurants: Momo Sushi in NE and AMA Sushi in Edina. This place was PACKED. We waited in a line to order that stretched all the way to the entrance of the quaint building. The vibe inside is quite cool but it is crowded so you might have to wait for someone to leave to grab a spot. We ended up only sticking around long enough to finish our food and then left to work somewhere else - it just was a bit too crowded for us to be productive and we didn't want to hog up space for other customers. I was pretty hungry while I was there so I ordered some meat momos. It took quite a bit of time for them to come out as they are made fresh, but they were delicious: incredibly savory and so fragrant. My recommendation is lean very far forward when eating these, one popped open while I was eating it and leaked all over me. Overall, great cafe and a good spot to grab a bite at too.

What a great experience!…read more The cafe is very nice and spacious! Lots of places to work or mingle. The black sesame latte with almond milk was amazing! Didn't try the food but nice to know they have some veggie options. Easy to find and great service - totally worth the trek to enjoy!

A gem!! Located across the street from Hamline University, Ginkgo offers great coffee drinks,…read moresandwiches, breakfast items, baked goods, and a welcoming environment. Best part? Open until 8 pm many evenings!! As a night owl, I appreciate any coffee shop that has extended hours past a typical shop. The service is always hands on and staff members are quick to move lines along and take orders right away. Having a presence at both CHS Field and the MN State Fair, I am all about supporting this local Saint Paul shop. Inside the shop, there are always unique gifts to purchase such as cards, jewelry, painting, t-shirts, etc. I always advocate for shopping small especially for holidays and birthdays. When I stopped in on Wednesday evening, to my surprise, there was an open mic music night and I enjoyed listening to all the artists. I recommend checking the website to keep up with with all the happening. Lastly, there is a nice parking lot around the backside of the building along with a cute patio for the warmer months. Enjoy!!

I had no idea such a neat place was on Snelling!…read more I really like that they have their own parking, and space feels nice and cozy. The cashier was very kind and answered all my questions. I had the root beer float and a breakfast burrito with turkey sausage. I know that sounds weird, but the heart wants what the heart wants. - I enjoyed the root beer float, but I would have liked a bit more ice cream. It was decent for the price. - I did find the burrito a bit bland. The salsa helped, but I think hot sauce would have really kicked it up a notch. Overall, I would come back and maybe try some more of the menu.

I visited Up Coffee before work Friday morning and got the iced black salted caramel latte as well…read moreas tried a matcha with pumpkin syrup and oat milk. This place has a casual local coffee shop feel that has both indoor and outdoor seating. Although it was fairly busy at the time I visited, service was still relatively fast. I particularly liked my latte drink because you could taste the unique salted caramel flavor without it being muted with the espresso and milk. The flavor came through clear and I would definitely order it again. Additionally, I liked how they had a rotating seasonal menu. I would visit again to try some drinks on their "Trick or Treat" menu.

I went right when they opened at 8 am on a Sunday's morning. Small parking lot, but plenty of…read morestreet options. We got our order to go and were in and out in less than 10 minutes. Food 4/5: we got the breakfast sandwich (sausage,egg,cheese,spinach on a croissant) and plain bagels. The breakfast sandwich was well seasoned and flavor balanced and I'd absolutely come back for! The bagel didn't seem the most fresh, but they did have other pasties I'd try. I also got the cold brew with maple syrup and a splash of milk and would absolutely come back for! Service 5/5: the ladies that helped me were so nice and helped answer all of my questions. The food/drink was made quickly. Ambiance 5/5: this place has plenty of seating inside and out and has a more cozy aesthetic. Definitely worth a try if you're on the neighborhood! I love that they have more than just pastry options for breakfast and we will definitely be back.