You still have time to get a ghost art latte from Protagonist Cafe.., This neighborhood spot is a classic! The building was erected pre-civil war so instead of ruining the integrity of the building with a commercial kitchen, a coffee shop and sweet treat spot was born. The moment you step in, you're greeted by 5,000 pre-loved books. They're thoughtfully organized by subject and author's last name so you can unleash your inner book worm! The added touch of Dewey Decimal labels adds to the charm without invoking school nightmares. And don't forgot to challenge your friends at a board game at their sister spot...Pieces: Board Game Bar and Restaurant, just two blocks away. read more

Protagonist Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

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Super cute coffee shop/cafe. They encourage you to stay with the various books in the cafe. It's also walking distance to soulard market another St. Louis institution read more

Ever since we find this place we stop by every time we drive from Illinois to Louisiana. Great coffee, strong and never bitter, and good food. Staff is friendly and the theme and atmosphere are wonderful. Plus they're dog friendly with outside seating. read more

Made my way to Protag's today to grab some snacks and do some work. The online ordering form said that they were out of some things I found were in stock (Parm & Leek Croissant and the Cinnamon Rolls), but listed some things as in stock when they were out (the September seasonal Maple Latte). This worked out for me since I wanted the Leek Croissant, but it's something to keep in mind. The couches were comfy to crank out my writing and outlets abounded. I was surprised it wasn't more busy on a Sunday evening. My other complaint this visit was that there were four flys hanging out around my food. This is not usual here and I do not know how they got in. read more

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Perfect and best coffee house in St. Louis. The ambiance is the ultimate in coffee house comfort with tables for working and couches for relaxing. There are loads of books and games if you just want to hang out with a friend. Get your favorite coffee expertly prepared. There is a reasonable selection of pastries and ice cream. If you would like a glass of wine in the 5:00 somewhere hour, Protagonist can accommodate you. read more

Tried the Protagonist Cafe for the first time today! Came mostly for the sweets, as I don't normally enjoy coffee. Decided I would go ahead and try their coffee, though, and the barista was quick to answer my questions, and very kind! (It's a bit embarrassing to have to ask "what is a latte" lol.) Ordered a samoa cookie and iced samoa latte upon the barista's recommendation, while my husband ordered the double chocolate chip cookie and chai latte - tasty! We very much enjoyed them! The double chocolate cookie was made all the more enjoyable after they warmed it up, melting the chocolate chips inside. In addition to lattes, I noted that the cafe also served tea, soda, wine, and cocktails with or without coffee (the Irish Coffee was tempting, but a little early in the day, lol). In addition to baked goods, the cafe was serving ice cream! The atmosphere was quiet, much quieter than I would normally associate with a cafe; a lot of customers were busy working on their laptops with headphones plugged in, or reading. That said, it wasn't so quiet that it felt weird to be talking inside the cafe, and they plenty of tables and seating for small groups - we were part of a party of four and quickly found a table upon entering the cafe. While the quiet atmosphere was no problem for us (I found it quite pleasant, though I'm soft spoken so it wouldn't have been an issue anyways), louder parties will be happy to know that there is picnic benches outside, on the sidewalk in front of the cafe. Looking forward to returning in the future! I can see it being the perfect place to do some work of my own - a nice change of venue! I'll also have to check out their sister-store, The Antagonist read more

Best coffee shop in Soulard! All the pastries are to die for! The cappuccinos and drip coffee are the best. The baristas are so sweet and I love the burrito stand. I will be back to try it! Also, dogs are welcome - this may be the best part of all! read more

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This place is so amazing and definitely would recommend the tragedy iced coffee. The vibes were vibing and the place was clean and people were nice , felt like a place you can actually lock in on studying because that's what everyone is doing around you. read more

Excellent coffee, interesting desserts. Seating is random mix of vintage sofas, lounge chairs, coffee tables and cafe tables & chairs

Great spot in Soulard with a good amount of seating inside. Incredibly busy on a Saturday but I thought the baristas were moving at a solid pace. I tried a strawberry latte, something seasonal, and it was delicious! Not too sweet. I'll return in the future! read more

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Just go here! Great options and wonderful coffee! To a team of 7 and every one of them were thrilled and loved every selection they made. read more

What a cute cafe tucked into Soulard! The area is so walkable, and The Protagonist is one street over from the Soulard farmers market. I got the Thai iced coffee for $6 and it was the perfect amount of sweet and creamy. The cafe is filled with books and room to study or hang out. The menu is extensive and has something for everyone! read more

Protagonist Cafe - Iced Thai coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

First things first, if you are a cinnamon roll lover like myself, GET THE CINNAMON ROLL! (Warmed up!) it will not disappoint. I think it's on my list of top cinnamon rolls I've ever had. As for the cafe, it was very busy on a Saturday morning as it is right next to the farmers market we stopped at just before venturing over to the cafe. They had a burrito station which was definitely popular, decided against the burrito since the wait was 20-30 minutes. Inside the cafe is lined with books! They had fiction, romance and other sections labeled accordingly. The tables were all filled indoors so we decided on their outdoor seating and we all enjoyed our coffee and pastries. read more

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They don't make coffee shops like this anymore! Protagonist adroitly combines bookstore, wine shop, coffee shop, and gift shop. Their vegan pastry options are abundant (pictured: pop tart and a cheddar biscuit) and their drinks are solid (I got two cappuccinos with oat milk). It was a great place to work. Their seating is comfortable and cozy, and the clientele has good vibes. read more

Protagonist Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

The Protagonist Cafe is a really cute concept--warm baked goods and used books with comfy chairs, free Wi-Fi and tables to study make for a nice ambience! It's like a library, only you're allowed to eat inside. :) It's a bit crowded as it is popular (went early afternoon on a Sunday). Love the idea and decorations, also the staff up front is friendly! The spinach feta croissant and Parmesan leek were both yummy without being too salty. Would have preferred a better selection of books maybe--but I also know I am picky (prefer goodreads rating is at least a 4). They do have sections divided by nonfiction, biography, fiction, travel, languages etc.) They also have a part in the front of the store with gift items like handmade paper cards and "Blind Date with a Book" wrapped surprise books. Overall would visit again. There is no parking downtown so you have to pay at the meter unless it's a Sunday! read more

Anytime I'm in Soulard, The Protagonist Cafe is a MUST! I love to bring out of town guests here and they're always impressed by this little coffee shop's eclectic decor, retail section, and the overall cozy colorful vibes. It's exactly what I imagine when I think of what a local coffee shop should be. I've only ever tried their drinks, but it's delicious every time from their seasonal apple cider drink to black coffee to A Wrinkle in Cha'me (caramel chai mhm). The service has always been friendly and open to answering any of my questions about the menu. Can't recommend this place enough! read more

Protagonist Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

this place is very unique and it's in the soulard district. it's good coffee and pet friendly.

Came in very early for a coffee to try something else besides the bucks before leaving town. Spot very close to downtown and had very eclectic feel. The place had large selection of books and the home made pastries were great. Would have like more sugar free selections for coffee flavors but the cappuccino was fresh. Would hang out here if I had the time plenty of seating. read more

Protagonist Cafe - Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

This was my favorite coffee shop in college, and it's so fun to revisit when back in stl! Black Forest mocha (amaretto and mocha) will make your day. Iced or hot- it's amazing. And paired with oat milk is my favorite way to have it :) read more

Protagonist Cafe - Black Forest mocha iced with oat milk - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

This coffee house is HUGE! Coffee is ok and the scones, well, just pass on them. Plenty to read and look at here from people watching at a window seat to the assortment of local funky artists treasures. Friendly service helps with the ambiance which can be a tad overwhelming. So grab a latte and pick up a book or open that laptop! read more

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Great cafe experience with kind coffee magicians (baristas), they have lots of comfy couches and seating options to meet with friends, get some work done or just read a good book if you desire. There is a large range of drink options as well. I went for the reliable London Fog myself (iced version for this warm day). read more

Love the friendly vibe. The dish was savory and delicious. Yelp can not add my photos! When did this happen?

This coffee shop is inviting and so lovely to hang out and do work. I came here twice already. The first time was to check out a new coffee shop (take out order), and I liked how it looked; the coffees and pastries were delicious, so I decided to come the second time to do work. When I arrived the second time, it was busy again, and there was no open table, so I asked one of the guests if I could share a table with him (I'm glad he said yes!). I like how the cafe vibe. Hundreds of books/bookshelves surround you, Knick-knack items, and people who work on their computers. I ordered the Caramel Delight drink with regular milk and the banana walnut cake. Both were so good. The caramel delight drink was perfectly concocted--creamy, with a strong espresso taste, and sweet at the same time. The banana walnut cake was perfectly baked, too. I highly recommend this place if you are in the STL area and want that cafe vibe with delicious treats! read more

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My Count Chocula latte was chefs kiss, & don't forget the spooky latte art! So cozy, it's like sitting in your living room! Service is great, serve yourself! read more

Protagonist Cafe - Count Chocula Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

Just a "wow" experience. For some reason I assumed this was a coffee shop and bookstore. It's a coffee shop and library. Pick up a coffee, latte, espresso or tea here--hot or cold--find a book from among the thousands on hand, and settle in at the oversized lounge area for a comfortable pastime. Or, bring your laptop and spark your productive wi-fi creativity in front of the large windows. This is a comfortable hangout, meet-up, tuned in spot for solo or group experiences. read more

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We stumbled across this quaint little coffee shop while visiting STL. It was very cute, plenty of seating and spaces to work. They have a lot of drink options, there's definitely something for everyone. The service was slow on a Friday morning, we waited 20 mins for 2 iced lattes. Personally I wasn't impressed, the espresso was watery. I thought maybe it was because I had coconut milk but I tried my husband's latte, which had whole milk, and his was also very watery. Kind of disappointing. read more

This is my favorite coffee shop in all of greater St. Louis & I've tried a lot!! The mixed style in art & furniture & literary theme draws you in. The staff is kind and seems happy to be there so must be treated well. They have a fun menu and vegan options. They make more than coffee and even added ice cream. There is a variety a seating that can mold to the experience you're wanting or activity. Well behaved dogs are welcome & can often be found hanging out peacefully. You can donate your books in decent condition here too, like I have. I just only wish it was closer to home so I could come more often. Please support & recommend this small business, as it deserves, so it can remain a staple of Stl. read more

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A gorgeous space where you can check out books, cute little gift section with punny selection. Coffee is solid. Drink menu is extensive, food menu is the reserve. I'd love more to see more snacks. read more

Admittedly, I was a bit bummed when I saw what was moving into this space actually meant "cafe" and didn't have salads and sandwiches (Soulard is lacking healthy options and the Panera SUCKS). However, I have moved past those early days and appreciate a lovely coffee shop that I can walk to. This establishment is such a welcome change over the bars in the area - bleh. NO MORE BARS (unless it's a fancy cocktail bar!) The drink options are a plenty, including Arnold Palmers and Bud Light, and the service is always sweet. Multuple types of mochas (heeyyyyy!) Weekends sometimes offer breakfast burritos, which I adore. They also have a rewards program. Outdoor shared seating, books to borrow and parking available. It's a solid choice and a welcome addition to Soulard. read more

Protagonist Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

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I got the opportunity to spend about 3 hours at this cafe! Such a relaxing and calm environment. I went in on a Friday morning and there were so many different seating choices (couches, chairs etc). I found no issues plugging up my computer and Wi-Fi was posted at the front. I got a cookie and I thought it was so nice that they warmed it up before serving. My cookie was great and I wish I would have gotten to try a drink from them. read more

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Enjoyed stopping at a protagonist Cafe. Was a little disappointed that their seasonal specials are seasonally unavailable. Things happened, but it seemed like pretty poor planning to be early in and not have that ready or available. It's a delightful little place with great atmosphere. read more

Finally got a chance to check this place out. It's my kind of cafe, with the variety of seating options, very lived in and cozy without feeling dirty. Not pretentious, variety of people. I stopped in on a Sunday morning to catch up on some work for a few hours. I just caught the last "table" which was more like a desk against the wall. I pulled the desk out so I was able to sit facing the room - I have a thing about having my back to the room! It was a perfect, cozy spot to work. I get a little anxious trying new spots until I get the hang of how things work. A few points: - this place is popular and busy. I arrived a little before 10am on a Sunday. It got busy very quickly - you can order using QR code at your table. They will not call your name though, just your order, so listen - the cafe au lait was delicious and reasonably priced - best croissant ever (Parmesan leek) - after a couple hours,I tried the oatmeal cream pie, it was good but so rich, saved half for the next day - burrito bar smelled good but I couldn't easily figure out how to order one so just gave up. Yea, I could have gone up and asked, but I told you I get anxious so forgive me, I was just trying to stay cool - plenty of outlets, no issues with wifi - restroom was super cute, spacious and clean feeling - the owners obviously love Gilmore Girls. I didn't feel the love for it but appreciate that it wasn't shoved down my throat - after the burritos shut down, no food options except super sweets (croissants seemed to be gone by 11am) but I saw people being sandwiches from nearby shops in. I'd love to see more savory lunch-like items like traditional croissants or bagels but at least what they had seems to be made in-house - you may not find a seat. Yes, I was there for like 4 hours. If there was a time limit, I would have respected it. I also purchased a few items and did not take up a table larger than what I needed - what I loved to see was people sharing tables, everyone seemed very kind about it - recycle bin - I wasn't sure what was recyclable or not...so I put my cup in the trash, which seemed like everyone was doing In conclusion, I can't wait to go back - especially when it's nice out, and not to work, but to catch up on reading. A true, community-feel coffee shop UPDATE I am adding a few more pics since I've been back a few times. The scones are amazing, make sure you get them warm! One quasi-complaint: there is one giant step to get from the lobby area into the main seating area. Like, a foot high. The edge of the step has been finished with a piece of moulding that sticks out and causes a major trip hazard. I have seen people trip going down the step. There is no obvious signage or marking to warn anyone. I wonder if this could be made into a ramp to make the seating area and restroom a little accessible. I worry that I'm going to trip every single time. read more

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Outside of the shop is so cute, especially for any reader. The front sign has a Gilmore Girls quote and I was quickly in love. The inside has plenty of books and tables for anyone looking for a quiet place to study or think. I ordered the raspberry and white mocha drink. Great choice. Seems like a fun place to hang out if I lived nearby! read more

I think I read this in another review, but it's no less true. This place is basically what I would have imagined a coffee place to be like if you asked me to describe one when I was a kid in the 90s. The place is all atmosphere, and just seems like a good place to sip coffee, munch pastries, and read a book. Post Covid, I think I will do exactly that. As it is, I just stopped by and grabbed a coffee and croissant. Prices are about what you'd expect from a locally run coffee shop. Parking wise, there is some street parking nearby, or if you pick your time right, you could park in the free parking at the market and just walk through that building. It's still more convenient than a lot of places in the city. I went on a Saturday morning (before 10), and service was fairly quick. They also currently have contactless pickup, so if you're in a rush, you can order online and pick up. read more

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Cool little spot. They have a ton of books to check out. A few games to play & plenty of things for purchase. They had a good variety of baked goods to choose from. My iced matcha was okay. I did like it was sweetened with honey & wasn't too sweet. My father in law said his coffee was nothing special but I think he might enjoy something different next time. My husband really liked his black cherry mocha. He said that multiple times read more

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Protagonist Coffee has a lot going for it, even if the coffee is just alright. I got an iced coffee, which was decent, but you should go for the vibes rather than the coffee. I appreciate that there's no extra charge for milk alternatives--such a nice touch. I'm looking forward to trying something other than their coffee, as they have some interesting teas on the menu. The staff is really nice, which adds to the pleasant experience. The book aspect of the store is delightful, with cozy places to sit, read, or work. It's a charming spot to relax and enjoy some quiet time. read more

Protagonist Cafe - Dessert and deli - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

Really cool vibe! Cool area! Amazing Vegan pastry selections. Great coffee and frozen drinks. We will be back. Eat Vegan! read more

Very cute coffee shop. I didn't try any of their food but their coffee was really good! The only down side to my visit was the service. The cashier was very unfriendly and didn't great upon arrival although I said hi twice and got ignored. She seemed like we were a bother to her. Unfortunately I would love to give this place a 5 but due to the unfriendliness of the worker I don't think that made my experience as well as I had hoped and read about. I also had to explain to her what regular whole milk was yet she rang me up for half and half? Totally different milks. I didn't even bother to ask for a recommendation due to how uncomfortable I felt in her presence. Sadly I hope my next visit is much more friendly if I decide to come back. Great coffee though ! read more

Protagonist Cafe - Antagonist - Coffee & Tea Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

We came here on a Saturday morning. My wife (more so than I) and I love to read. We came here hoping for a quiet, relaxed morning, hoping to find a book to read while we sipped on coffee. It wasn't quite what I was expecting it to be. Book selection leaves a lot to be desired. They had radio music playing. Not too loud though but enough to be distracting. I'm a millennial but not a fan of the "typical millennial crowd" and that's what this place brings. People coming in to chat and on their computers. It didn't offer a cozy feel either. Purple walls keylime green trim and pink ceiling. All of that being said, the service was excellent. I ordered a lavender latte and it was fantastic. They have a selection of any milk that you may want used in your drink. My wife ordered an americano which was also very well done. We ordered their Berry Crumble Bars to eat. They were ok, nothing special. They have a man cooking on a pop up table on hot plates as their kitchen. Kind of cool kind of weird lol. We had to park about a block away (to be expected) but it was a nice morning so we didn't mind walking. Overall it's a nice place, worth stopping by to at least try. We probably wouldn't take the time to come again as it didn't bring what we were hoping for. Highlight for us was the coffee. I'm typically never impressed by different coffee places but I thought they made well balanced drinks and the quality of the coffee seemed like it was good. read more

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Obsessed with this place. Literary themed coffee?? My two favorite things combined. I'll have to stop by every time I'm in St. Louis.