There’s a ritual I never skip, whether I’m on the road or staying home, it’s drinking my morning coffee. Something about those first few sips settles me in a place, and when I’m in Detroit, that ritual takes on a whole new depth.
I spend a lot of time in the city, visiting friends, exploring the revitalized neighborhoods, and discovering new spots. Coffee is how I anchor myself here.
This trip, I decided to map out a full-on Detroit coffee crawl, tasting my way across neighborhoods. I visited 11 cafés over several days, following tips from locals and online reviews.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a traveler looking for the best coffee shops in Detroit or a local trying to shake up your usual routine, here’s the guide I wish I had before I started.
Let’s Talk Detroit Coffee (and Detroit Cafés)
Detroit is often associated with Motown, muscle cars, and its comeback story, but the coffee scene here is an unsung hero in its own right.
You’ll find baristas roasting their own beans in renovated churches, latte artists creating masterpieces in basements, and community-focused shops where regulars know each other’s names and drink orders.
Must-Try Detroit Coffee Shops
Throughout my multi-day caffeinated adventure, I narrowed down my highlights to a list of standouts that hit every note: flavor, service, design, and ambiance. From industrial-chic to cozy cottage-core, these Detroit cafés impressed me in unique ways.
The Roost
Tucked away from the usual foot traffic, The Roost, one of the most inviting places I’ve ever enjoyed coffee in Detroit, feels like a local secret.
It’s small—just two indoor tables and a few bistro-style seats outside—but what it lacks in space it makes up for in warmth. Houseplants trail from every corner, and natural light floods the room like honey.
I grabbed a pour-over and sat with a thick cookie, flipping through one of the Detroit history books they leave out for guests. Their coffee was rich and aromatic, and I still think about how good it was.
The soup of the day smelled amazing, and I loved seeing locals stop by for a sandwich or a glass of wine.
Café Sous Terre
Next up is arguably the best downtown coffee shop Detroit has to offer. Hidden beneath street level in Midtown, Café Sous Terre immediately felt like stepping into a film set.
Mid-century modern met Art Deco with cozy lighting and impeccable design. A bubbly barista greeted me at the counter, walking me through the drink options with genuine enthusiasm.
I went with her suggestion: a French vanilla latte that balanced strength with smooth sweetness. I spent nearly two hours there, finishing a chapter of my book and jotting notes for this article. Even with other patrons coming and going, the space felt calm and unrushed.
When I stepped outside onto the patio, the evening breeze was the perfect companion for my second round: an iced espresso.
Lucky Detroit Coffee Roasters & Espresso
I stumbled upon Lucky while hunting for a caffeine fix between errands. Inside, it smelled like roasted magic, as they make some of the best coffee Detroit has available! Their beans are freshly roasted in-house, and you can taste the difference.
I went rogue with a pistachio milk latte and was floored. Oh, and the cinnamon roll I paired it with was light, fluffy, and the perfect combination with my latte.
The atmosphere of the space was undeniable; everyone around me was chatting, laughing, or taking photos of their coffee.
Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters Detroit
This place lives up to its name, as it’s hands-down among the best coffee shops in downtown Detroit. With a front window overlooking downtown, Dessert Oasis offers an unmatched view while you sip.
I ordered an iced matcha with oat milk and an everything bagel and sat near the window watching people drift by. The staff were welcoming and eager to recommend drink and pastry combos.
It’s an excellent space for working, catching up with friends, and people-watching. Their matcha latte and ham-and-cheese croissant combo is something I’ll be dreaming about for weeks – and I’m not kidding, I love a great cup of joe that much.
AWAKE Café
There’s something special about a place that makes you feel instantly at ease. AWAKE Café has that magic.
Spacious, relaxed, and full of natural wood tones and comfy chairs, it’s the kind of coffee shop you could lose hours in. I grabbed a cinnamon roll and a dark roast, and the staff chatted with me as if I were a regular.
Whether I was answering emails or eavesdropping on a pair of artists talking about projects, I felt extremely comfortable here, and that makes all the difference.
Madcap Coffee Company
Madcap is a coffee shop in Detroit that feels sleek and urban, with a design-forward space and standing tables that encourage a quick but quality experience.
It was the only shop on my list without traditional seating, but that didn’t detract from the experience. I stood at a high table with my cappuccino and people-watched for about 15 minutes.
I then had an espresso, which was smooth and powerful; you could tell the staff had mastered their craft.
The Congregation
Housed in a beautifully repurposed church, The Congregation has some of the best coffee in Detroit.
I ordered a chai latte with their housemade ginger syrup, and it might’ve been the best chai I’ve ever had.
The carved pews, the stained glass, and the old altar-turned-counter all contribute to the charm. There’s magic here, and not just because of the holy roots. I sat outside with my drink, surrounded by native plants and the buzz of conversations.
Detroit Brew-ti-ful Coffee House
From the spotless kitchen to the friendly owners greeting everyone with a smile, Detroit Brew-ti-ful lives up to its name.
The oat milk latte I ordered was smooth and rich, and the bacon and egg croissant had flaky perfection you only find when someone’s still passionate about baking.
The vibe was relaxed, with locals grabbing smoothies, chatting with the staff, and treating this as a regular hangout. I’ll be back to try the chicken salad sandwich they let me sample!
Detroit Sip
Colorful murals lead the way to this hidden gem on the city’s northwest side. Inside, I found a vibrant and cozy space filled with art, books, and people who clearly love being there.
I ordered a caramel macchiato and a banana nut muffin, then found a comfy spot in the back corner.
What stood out most was the sense of community—in a sense, you feel connected here. This is just the café where you can show up alone and leave with a new friend.
Roasting Plant Coffee
Sleek, modern, and located in the heart of downtown, Roasting Plant is a must-visit for coffee nerds. They roast their beans in-house and make each cup fresh to order.
I had a caramel macchiato that struck a perfect balance of bitter and sweet. The place felt trendy without being too hip, and the service was quick and precise.
It’s a great spot if you’re in the area and want your coffee done exactly right. If you’re hunting for coffee shops in downtown Detroit that combine convenience with quality, this one’s a solid choice.
Honey Dirt Coffee Company
This place surprised me. Warm, personal, and flavorful, Honey Dirt felt more like visiting someone’s home than stepping into a café.
I had a hot chai that tasted homemade and comforting in a way that stayed with me long after I left. The owner, Teddy, was incredibly welcoming.
This spot carries an unmistakable feeling of care, from the drinks to the décor. If you love supporting small businesses and want a deeper taste of Detroit coffee culture, this one’s for you.
An FAQ on Coffee in Detroit
If you’re new to Detroit’s coffee scene or just curious, here’s what you need to know before you plan your trip.
What’s the vibe like in Detroit coffee shops?
Each café has its own unique identity, but there’s a shared warmth that unites them all. You’ll find spots with modern, minimalist aesthetics, historic buildings transformed into cozy hangouts, and neighborhood staples that are filled with regular patrons.
You’ll also come across places spinning old records, cafés covered in local art, and always that warm, welcoming smell of fresh coffee that hits you the second you walk in.
Is Detroit good for remote work in coffee shops?
Absolutely. Many places have free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a relaxed atmosphere. Dessert Oasis, AWAKE, and Café Sous Terre were especially remote-work friendly.
Several locations also offer plentiful outlets, quiet corners for video calls, and strong coffee that keeps you focused through long sessions.
Can I find non-dairy milk and specialty drinks?
Yes. Oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, and even pistachio milk are standard options. Many cafés also offer creative, seasonal drinks, housemade syrups, and baristas who love helping you find the perfect match.
Are Detroit coffee shops accessible by public transit or car?
Most of the coffee shops I visited had nearby parking or were accessible by QLINE and local buses. Detroit is a car-friendly city, but public transportation is an option in key areas, such as Midtown and downtown.
Rideshare services are also easy to use and reliable for hopping between neighborhoods for café visits.
Are tips expected?
Yes, like most U.S. cities, tipping a dollar or two for counter service or more if you’re staying longer is appreciated and customary.
Baristas here often go above and beyond, whether by recommending new drinks or offering friendly conversation. A tip is a great way to show your appreciation.
Which Detroit Coffee Shop Will You Visit First?
Exploring Detroit through its coffee shops turned out to be much more than a caffeine-fueled adventure. I tasted flavors that surprised me, met people who inspired me, and discovered spaces that felt like second homes.
I’d do this exact trip again, without changing a thing (maybe just with looser jeans to fit all the cinnamon rolls).
Whether you’re planning a weekend in the city or looking to deepen your experience of Detroit culture, don’t overlook the magic brewing in its cafés.
Your perfect cup of coffee in Detroit is waiting.
