Protagonist Cafe
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This was my first visit here and I am impressed with the menu offering tea, coffees, ice cream, pastries and options to spike your drink. Excellent touch! A hot, caramel latte with a shot of whiskey is my language! I also LOVE when shops have signature drinks. It lets me know it is carefully crafted and the establishment is confident in their product. I ordered the Tragedy which is a raspberry, white chocolate latte! The raspberry is very light and adds the perfect sweetness and aromatic to the drink. The prices are great, the staff is lovely and there's plenty of comfortable seating.
I'd been wanting to check out this local cafe for a while and finally made it out, except I made the mistake of coming on a weekend morning to study with a friend. It was absolutely packed. The line was super long and there was no seating anywhere, so that study session did not happen the way I planned. That said, the space itself is really cute. There are little things you can buy like stationery, and they even have a mini library tucked in there next to the ice cream. The staff was super efficient and clearly know how to keep the line moving even when it's slammed. I got their signature latte "The Protagonist" and it was so good. Their seasonal lattes also looked amazing and I already know I need to try those next time. Overall a great spot, I just know to come back on a weekday during off peak hours if I actually want to sit down and get some work done. Lesson learned!
I've been wanting to go here since it opened. I just love the name. This place is cozy, yet big, quiet but loud and old and new. My dirty chai was AMAZING! The service was good. The ambiance was spectacular. But then again I like quirky decorating and books ..so many books. The prices were a little high but honestly, I plan on going back over and over. I loved the ambiance that much.
I was able to meet up with a friend here that I hadn't seen since 2019 (7 years ago)! Great spot, comfy seating and the kids played chess while the adults talked. I had a lemon bundt cake because I'm gluten free. It was good, but I think you should heat them up in the microwave because that would have improved the flavor. I also got a chai tea latte with coconut milk and it was great. The cafe had a cool vibe and so did the area around it. Thanks!
Second time back here and I love the bookstore study space vibe. Truly a great place to just chill or grad a quick coffee. I got a checkmate chai and it was so good but I think it's only seasonal :( . The baristas were super nice and I want waiting for long, I also had a chocolate chip cookie and a double chocolate chip cookie I did like the chocolate chip more but I also may think it's just preference. Love this place.
Popped in while i visiting STL, super cutesy super friendly and fast on the service! They have books, wine, local art, lots of seating options as well! I had the save a horse matcha lemonade it was so refreshing! And the spinach artichoke croissant was so yummy as well! LGBTQ+ friendly which i LOVEE!!!
Stopped in for coffee this morning and we had a great visit. The Edgar Allen Poe Iced coffee is delicious. I also had the spinach and feta croissant. The atmosphere is welcoming. The space is comfortable and fun! Service is fast and the staff are kind!!
Red and I decided to try Protagonist cafe in Soulard right across the street from soulard market. Red had an iced Carmel latte and I a coffee we also enjoyed a raspberry thumbprint cookie and a cinnamon roll. Total with tip 29 dollars. The cookie and cinnamon roll were very tasty. The drinks were quite good. The thing with this cafe is all the books located inside the interior is an eclectic array of books and different items very cool in its own way.
Amazing place to do work. Amazing coffee and just in general a cozy place to read or do work
If you are in St. Louis, you have to check out The Protagonist. We stopped in on a Sunday morning before 9:00 AM and managed to beat the rush, which was perfect because the atmosphere is incredibly cool--it doubles as a bookstore, making it the ultimate spot to relax. I ordered a 16 oz latte with an extra espresso shot, and it was exactly what I was looking for. It was great to actually taste the high-quality coffee without it being over-powered by creaminess. My brother tried one of their signatures, The Tragedy, and really enjoyed it. He mentioned it tasted a bit like Crunch Berries; while that's a little too sweet for my personal preference, it seemed like a hit for anyone who loves a nostalgic, flavorful latte. The staff was super friendly and made the whole experience even better. I'll definitely be back the next time I'm in town!
A staple in soulard for a reason. Protagonist is an awesome spot to cozy up, study, and enjoy some coffee. Or, just go catch up with an old friend They have tons of great housemade flavors that are pretty adventurous as well. My favorite was the tragedy. It was a white-chocolate cranberry. Super creamy, smooth, and just a bit of tart from the cranberry. An excellent drink. The workers are wonderful, super nice, patient, and absolutely fantastic at making a dang good cup of coffee. They have a solid selection of pastries also. All in all, an amazing spot to kick back, relax, and just be still.
Always one of my favorite spots to grab coffee! It's so quaint and open, well lit, tons of books, and lots of room to work. Sometimes it can be a challenge to find a table to yourself, but it's never been an issue for others if we share a table. They have a variety of baked options and coffee drinks, as well as beer and wine. Whether you're there to get some work done, read, socialize, or just relax, you definitely won't be disappointed. It kind of gives a cozy library feel. One side of the street outside is paid parking and the other isn't, so pay attention. Parking directly outside is free!
My favorite neighborhood coffee spot! I love the aesthetic of the cafe, it's so cozy and welcoming. The kind of place you want to stay for hours. Their drinks and bakery items definitely help add to that. This is a must try place in my book!
6 years ago
Cute little coffee shop & bakery that my former English teacher self loved! The coffee was smooth (I just do black, brewed coffee) and the Samoa cookie was yummy. Safety & sanitization precautions are taken, and I was able to enjoy my coffee & cookie indoors while spaced several feet away from others. Bookshelves had numerous titles you could take down to read. I brought in my own but will definitely be back to browse (also loved that they sell local craft beers here...picked up 4 Hands' peanut butter & jelly stout on my way out)! read more
Quiet, cozy, relaxing. Great little coffee shop with some comfy chairs and outlets to do work. The staff was very nice, and the drinks came out great, and fast. I would get rid of the purple/green color scheme, but still a great place to hang out. read more
One of my go-to coffee shops!! I bring everyone who visits me here just to have coffee and a pastry. Would recommend the brownie or spinach leek croissant. It has a bookshop vibe with plenty of seats. They also added so many outlets for WFH or studying which I appreciate a lot. If you come on the weekends it will be louder and busier but you can get the most massive meat or veggie burrito, made in-house! We look forward to burrito days. read more
Business owner information
Protagonist C.
Thank you so much for this wonderful review, Rena! We're so happy to…
1 year ago
2 years ago
The Protagonist Cafe is one of the coffee shops where you will want to grab a book and sit in the peacefulness while sipping a freshly made cup of coffee, I loved the ambiance of this place and believe me it's hard to impress me in that area. They are big on the gender affirmation here so if you want a more conservative coffee then don't go in here. The workers were very nice and had great attitudes. If I'm ever back in the area, I believe I would revisit. read more
Came here for the yelp event! DRINKS: - The iced caramel macchiato was refreshing, albeit slightly bitter. I didn't mind, it still tasted very nice, it's just not a very sweet drink. I still enjoyed drinking it and would get it again. - I unfortunately did not try the cake or cookies but there are vegan options. The people who tried the cake said it was very soft and not overbearingly sweet. - They also have some alcoholic options! - Not sure where to put this but I love how friendly this place is to local businesses. They go out of their way to promote local authors, local grocery stores etc. What a fantastic work ethic. Hats off to you guys AMBIENCE: - This is an adorable little coffee shop lined with book shelves. It would be a nice cozy place to get some work or studying done, while enjoying a sip of coffee. It seems like it is relatively quiet, so definitely a nice contrast compared to the rowdy bars Soulard is more commonly known for. I think something like this was definitely needed in the area! - Attire is pretty casual, like a comfy casual. - Dogs are welcome YAAAAY!!!! Seriously any place that does this is such a winner in my book. - Family friendly but i have a feeling young adults and working adults will just be more drawn to a place like this, kids will probably be a little bored. - What else is cool is in the summer they will open all their doors so the inside and outside will mesh together. I LOVE when places have the accommodations to do this. Can't wait! SERVICE: - The staff was very kind, gave great suggestions and can adjust your drink order to accommodate all your dietary needs (almond milk vs regular vs soy vs other). - Drinks were served pretty quickly. I think this is exactly the kind of place needed in Soulard. Gives me a very FRIENDS (TV show) vibe. and honestly what could top that? read more
Business owner information
Protagonist C.
This review is absolutely amazing and completely warms my heart :) It…
3 years ago
Quiet, cozy, relaxing. Great little café with some comfy chairs and outlets to do work. The staff was very friendly, and the drinks came out great, and fast. I would change the purple/green color scheme, but still a great place to hang out. read more
3 years ago
This has hands down become my new favorite coffee shop. It has loads of seating with comfortable options as well as hard back. The baked goods were incredible - I had the cinnamon roll and the leek Parmesan pastry... both were very tasty, but holy hell, I will 100% get the pastry again. I also got the white mocha raspberry latte with oat milk and asked for only 1/4 to 1/2 the normal amount of syrup bc I don't like sweet drinks, and it was perfect. All the flavor without the artificial sweetener. They also sell booze, and have bottles of wine out for purchase. I would definitely come back for a low key study/work session. They have street parking, but it was easy to grab a spot. read more
5 years ago
4 years ago
This place is the best coffee shop in soulard for so many reasons. Reason #1 is that they allow dogs inside! I loved coming to study here and wouldn't feel bad about being gone so long because I could bring Olive (my black lab fur baby) with me! The other reasons are it is so cute inside and the staff is so friendly. It reminds me of the "Friends" apartment. The staff is great at making drinks that are extremely tasty. They have milk alternatives for my fellow lactose intolerant people. In the mornings on the weekends, they make super good breakfast burritos - you can order them without the shell if you want. They also have wine and other liquor there. They have tons of little pastries that are delicious! Parking is on the street so if you're going during the soulard market time, you may have to walk a little. Another thing that's so great about this place is that they support local businesses and sell their products in the store. They also have a small library that you can read books from while enjoying coffee and/or wine. It's truly a hidden gem. If you cannot tell already, I highly recommend going! You definitely won't regret it! read more
1 year ago
Business owner information
Protagonist C.
Oh my goodness, this review MADE our day, week, and year! You're the…
First time in to Protagonist and wow! Adorable little coffee shop next to the Soulard Market. We were here on a recent Saturday morning. Service was friendly , 5-star! I ordered a lavender honey latte and my daughter got one of their breakfast burritos. My latte was lovely and unique. The breakfast burrito was substantial- they weren't skimping! It was so filling my daughter shared a few scrumptious bites with me and was full though dinner. The interior was adorable with tons of cute sayings and art on walls and windows. For now, we're mostly eating outside so we didn't linger. There were 4 nice-sized tables outside for us to choose from. This is an amazing coffee spot! read more
Business owner information
Protagonist C.
Thank you for stopping in with your daughter, and taking the time to…
4 years ago
Absolutely looooove coming here! Such a cozy place and they allow dogs inside. Coffee is delicious and so are the pastries! read more
2 years ago
4 years ago
Adorable! Such a quaint corner establishment. Sit, relax, read, study, unwind. Also homemade baked goods and yummy drinks. Very knowledgeable and accommodating staff assist in ordering. Would give this a 5-star rating if their outdoor seating was more than picnic benches. read more
My friends and I are doing a purple drink series! So we had to come to try the cosmic cowboy (ube latte). It was delicious! Tasted like fruity pebbles. I'd say it was an 8.5/10. The lemon Bundt cake I got, I was not a huge fan of, but my friend got the cinnamon roll and it was a better choice-still not my favorite. Books everywhere and the decor is super fun. I can't wait to go back to get a drink and read. Service was fast, but not super bubbly. read more
Nutshell: decent prices, friendly staff, awesome coffee and pastries. Worth hitting up to get that java buzz going. Love, love, love. I used their online order for pick up on a Sunday morning. Orange glazed scone with a 16oz drip coffee, room for milk. I had a 15 minute drive to get there and it was of course ready by the time I arrived. Literally walked in, barista greeted me, my stuff was waiting on the wooden rack with my name, and I was off and running. I had to wait for my scone, but I snuck some sips of coffee on the drive home. Their coffee is just the right amount of richness, a great mild roast. Once I set up on my city stoop, I cracked open the scone. Ohhhhhh my goodness. I believe all their pastries are vegan, but I couldn't tell. The flavor was amazing. The dough was just moist enough and the glaze had that bright pleasant, orange goodness. Ten out of ten, would do it again! My total came up to $7. Its worth every penny. read more
3 years ago
Great stop for a good cup of coffee. We really enjoyed browsing the unique gifts that were available from local artisans as well! read more
The Protagonist Cafe provides Soulard with that fun, friendly coffee shop vibe you see in 90's TV sitcoms. In contrast to many other coffee shops that can often feel dauntingly intimidating with hip baristas who balk at the mere suggestion of putting pumpkin or spice in a latte, Protagonist is a place where everyone is welcome. I wouldn't call myself a regular, but I have been in the space at all times of the day and have utilized the cafe for everything from a quick caffeine fix, to business meetings, to nestling in to grind out some overdue work. Every time I go to Protagonist, I always leave with a smile on my face. It's such a playful atmosphere and their products are so high quality that there's nothing to really get down about. Their coffee is top notch! In non-COVID times, I love getting the regular drip coffee because they offer a wacky assortment of mugs and you get to pick which one you want to drink from. I know that sounds nerdy, but it's such a fun feature to see if the mug you used the last time was there, and remember the fun times you had meeting with friends. The pastries offered by Protagonist are great too! Be warned though. They are stored in a cooling case, and some are served chilled. Usually if you are staying in the cafe, the barista will offer to warm your pastry. This particular trip I purchased a samoa cookie because I had to hit the road, and it was definitely chilled. I let it warm to room (car) temperature before chomping into it. Obviously the other incredibly unique aspect of Protagonist are the books. They have a vast library that you can easily get lost in. Such a cool concept to have a library in a cafe. While I have never "checked out" a book from their library, I have participated in their lending library! Recently I had two books that I no longer wanted, so I donated them to the lending library. Looking forward to finding a title I'd like to take home and read sometime soon. Right now during COVID, Protagonist's main table in the cafe that typically has the drip coffee and mugs has been converted into a small to-go booze shop. What an awesome use of space!! They also offered a number of small cards for purchase. Buy a card and support the Post Office! Gosh love the social responsibility of this joint. read more
Not sure what else can be said, delightfully sweet inside, to surround yourself with pages of stories while sipping on the most wonderful Americano, a true gem find today. I always try an Iced Americano to see what the espresso tastes like when trying any coffee shop and this was one of my very favorites for sure. No bitterness, a smooth coffee experience! You would think espresso is not that hard to do, but most coffee houses leaves the shot too long and it's bitter. This place did not disappoint. The hand made gifts inside, the comfy chairs, the whimsical colors, I LOVE IT!! can't wait to come back read more
3 years ago
This is my kind of one-stop-shop: books, coffee, real baked goods, burrito bar, and apparently alcohol available after the breakfast hours are wrapped up. Hilarious books, delicious whole milk lattes, warm muffins... I could live here. The service was friendly, and the woman at the register even indulged me as I read a passage to her from my newly acquired book so she, too, could know life answers from Always Ask A Man. The coffee shop is airy, spacious, bright, and charmingly whimsical. If I lived here, I would be a regular. read more
3 years ago
7 years ago
The Protagonist Cafe has got to be one of the friendliest, fun, and most relaxing cafes St Louis has to offer! Located in Soulard (and one of the only coffee places there), the Protagonist Cafe is brought to by the same brilliant duo that opened Pieces in St. Louis. They offer their own roasted java, a variety of teas, vegan pastries from the Pieces kitchen, and even boozy coffee drinks. My top favs are their London Fog (a light, semi-sweet Earl Grey latte) and their Chai Tea Latte which packs a nice spicy punch. The Protagonist Cafe also offers a simply stunning place to relax and enjoy anything you may happen to order. Want to read a book while sipping your latte? Just browse the Protagonist's 27-foot long custom bookcase brimming with books. The books are all organized by the Dewey Decimal System and can also be looked up online. Want to save your spot in the book you're reading for your next visit here? Simply put in a bookmark with your name and you can pick up right where you started. So cool! If books aren't your jam, you can certainly entertain yourself with the many games the Protagonist Cafe has to offer its guest. Bringing along the kiddos? Make sure to check out their little kid's book in the back of the cafe for special kids books. Overall, I can't sing the Protagonist Cafe's praises enough. The staff are all so friendly and helpful, and the space owners Laura and Jim have created is one for the books! I'll be back again. And again. read more
7 years ago
Being a writer, how could I not check out a place called The Protagonist Cafe? Especially when it bills itself as a "literary cafe." I was truly hoping I wouldn't be let down. My expectations often get a bit too high. I was not let down at all. As soon as I walked in I was met by a very friendly person behind the counter. They had plenty of options for coffee drinks, as well as several milk choices and sugar free flavoring. I ordered an oat milk sugar free vanilla latte. It was excellent. The space is fantastic. While it feels like one bright open room, it's actually broken up into four different areas - all with either comfy chairs and sofas, or good size tables for working. The WiFi was easy and fast. The vibe is super chill. But my favorite part is that 70% of the walls are filled with books. And what's more is they are actually labeled by category, then in alphabetical order by author's name. Really impressive. It's a wonderful little indie library where you're free to pull any book off the shelf while you're there. And the selection runs from fiction to religion to culinary arts. My only criticism is that it's about a 15-minute drive for me. Located just fifty yards or so from the Soulard Farmers Market, the neighborhood is cool, I just wish I could walk to the Protagonist! But I'll most definitely be back, and next time I'll bring my laptop and setup shop. Writing always seems to come easy when you're surrounded by the inspiration of other scribes. read more
Business owner information
Protagonist C.
Looks like you'll have to move to Soulard, Paul :) :) Thank you so…
4 years ago
Such a cute space!! Plenty of room and good amount of outlets available if you're looking for a study space. Very very friendly staff and great coffee, this is one of my new stl favorites!! read more
Located on the northern end of Soulard, near Soulard Market, the Protagonist Cafe serves a variety of hot drinks including drip coffee, espresso drinks, hot teas and sweet and savory bakery items. On my first visit I tried a hot turmeric and ginger tea latte with soy milk. It's nice to have a wide variety of milks including 2%, non-fat, half & half, almond, oat, soy and coconut. I also got a blueberry muffin, and the bonus was that it was vegan. You wouldn't know it though. Actually, I think all the bakery items are vegan, and they all look so delicious, like the German Chocolate Cake and the Salted Chocolate Pecan Cake Donut. On my second visit, I just stopped in for a drip coffee with oat milk and a power muffin to go. Next time, I'm going to try the London Fog Tea Latte or Chai Tea Latte. And maybe that cake donut. The atmosphere of this place is very spacious and relaxing. With over 3,000 books on the shelves, its a great place to kick back, relax and read a book. You can even search their book list online. I'm looking forward to return visits. read more
Business owner information
Protagonist C.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed review…
This cafe and bookshop is adorable! It's a perfect place to grab a coffee with a friend, curl up with a good book, or connect to their Wi-Fi and get some work done. The woman working the counter was very friendly and helpful. They had a great assortment of standard cafe drinks, but also a list of festive holidays drinks as well. I chose The Polar Espresso drink and the Samoa cookie and both were so delicious! I loved the vibe of the place, their book selection and the cute trinkets they sell. I will definitely be back. read more
Business owner information
Protagonist C.
Thank you so much for this thoughtful and kind review, Alyssa! We're…
7 years ago
THIS. This is the coffee shop I've been searching for since I moved to STL two years ago. Pros: - LOTS of seating - Not just lots of seating but lots of comfy seating (which is a big plus for me) - So many books!! - The place has a great sense of humor - The staff are so helpful and patient - Has lots of unique bakery items - Including Gluten-Free options! - Has a good amount of plugs for those needing to charge - free Wifi - An amazingly beautiful & eclectic design & decor - Has unique art (no mass production) - Good chill background music - Not too loud - Huge space - Looks like tables can be reserved - Has board games as well as their books that can be borrowed - Has adorable mug options - They have wines & spirits as well as coffee and tea - Good, broad hours - I'm sure there is more I'm forgetting Cons: - Haven't found any thus far! read more
Business owner information
Protagonist C.
Thank you so much for this amazing review, Lindsey!! We super…
2 years ago
7 years ago
Soulard has a new spot for coffee and it does not disappoint! Located just adjacent to the famous farmer's market, this large, but cozy, coffee joint has a "Friends" vibe and takes you back to a time when coffee shops were gathering places where you shared java and good stories. When we visited there were a few internet browsers, but most tables were playing board games or catching up. Enjoy each other's company and a great cup of joe. Go here for a great espresso drink, but don't skip the pastry case. I had the "Samoa" that was a fresh and even more delicious version of the Girl Scout's cookie. And the cinnamon roll was served warm, covered in house made icing. The walls are lined with books, making up a library of literature at your fingertips. Great for making conversation or having quiet time while people watching! Very happy to welcome Protagonist to Soulard! read more
Business owner information
Protagonist C.
We LOVE that you referenced Central Perk in your review! That was…
More info about Protagonist Cafe
1700 S 9th St
St. Louis, MO 63104
Soulard
Directions
(314) 833-3085
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https://www.protagonistcafe.com
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Ask the Community - Protagonist Cafe
Do you have wifi?
They do! It's Gilmore Girls themed (Lorelei-Guest) and the password is from Alice in Wonderland (Cheshire_Cat)!
Do you guys have board games?
Hi there! We have a few located next to our back bookshelf, but we allow Pieces (the board game bar and cafe) located two blocks from us to be the real showstopper for board games!
Do you have any gluten free pastry options?
Hello there! Currently in our case we have a gluten-free chocolate cake donut!
Are dogs allowed outside only?
Hello Keira, we allow well-mannered pups inside the shop! We simply ask that all pup patrons remain leashed at all times and refrain from sitting on our couches or chairs.
Are most the food items here vegan?
Hello Ari. All of the baked goods are vegan.
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