Grandforks Local

Grand Forks, North Dakota

Best coffee shops in Grand Forks

Updated October 2026 · 5 places · Grand Forks

Quick answer

Our top picks are Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea, Early Morning Espresso and Bully Brew Coffee South Drive Thru.

Ah, Grand Forks—the town where the Red River bends and the coffee flows just as warmly. If you're looking to savor a cup of joe in our charming neck of the woods, you're in for a treat. Picture this: the sun barely peeks over the horizon, and you're already cradling a steaming cup at Early Morning Espresso, where the aroma alone is enough to wake your senses. Stroll a bit further, and you'll find yourself at Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea, a cozy haven where the chatter is friendly and the teas are as tempting as the java. Don't miss KAIZEN Grand Forks, either; it's a spot where your latte art comes with a side of inspiration. Whether you're a local or just passing through, these coffee shops offer more than just caffeine—they offer a taste of community. Ready to discover your next favorite cup? Keep scrolling; the best is yet to come.

a long bench in a large room with a plant in the corner

The list

  1. 1

    Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea

    $$ · 322 Demers Ave Suite 100

    This location serves coffee, tea, and café-style drinks. The official location page lists daily hours of 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Olive Ann Hotel site, and the shop is also listed at 322 Demers Avenue on the company location page. It is a sit-down coffee shop inside the hotel area downtown.

    Best for: globally inspired · premium teas, neighborhood vibe

    Directions
  2. 2

    Early Morning Espresso

    $ · 1823 S Washington St

    Early Morning Espresso is where your taste buds meet nostalgia, serving up the creamiest Italian sodas that'll have you reminiscing about simpler times. If you're in Grand Forks and need a caffeine fix with a side of local charm, this spot is your non-negotiable morning stop.

    Best for: Italian sodas · locally owned, nostalgic appeal

    Directions
  3. 3

    Bully Brew Coffee South Drive Thru

    $$ · 4571 S Washington St, Grand Forks, ND 58201

    This is a local coffee drive-thru in Grand Forks listed at the South Washington Street location. It is included in local coffee-shop directories as an operating option, which makes it a practical grab-and-go stop.

    Best for: drive-thru coffee

    Directions
  4. 4

    Wilkerson Express Convenience Store & Stomping Grounds Coffee

    $ · 3450 University Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58203

    Wilkerson Express & Stomping Grounds is a convenience store and coffee shop in UND's Wilkerson Commons. Stomping Grounds serves Starbucks drip coffee, espresso drinks, smoothies, teas and baked items.

    Best for: quick convenience stop

    Directions
  5. 5

    The Ember Coffeehouse

    8 N 3rd St, Grand Forks, ND 58203

    The downtown coffeehouse serves coffee, espresso drinks, tea and pastries; customer reviews mention cappuccinos, maple lattes and matcha. Its posted hours are 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and it is closed Mondays.

    Best for: downtown espresso and tea

    Directions

Questions people ask

What are the best coffee shops to visit in Grand Forks?
This guide lists 5 coffee shops. The first 3 picks are Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea, Early Morning Espresso and Bully Brew Coffee South Drive Thru.
Is there free parking available near coffee shops in Grand Forks?
Many coffee shops in Grand Forks offer free street parking or have nearby parking lots. However, during peak hours, parking can be limited, so it may be wise to arrive early to secure a spot.
What are the best times to visit coffee shops in Grand Forks to avoid crowds?
The best times to visit are typically mid-morning around 10 AM or mid-afternoon around 2 PM. These times are usually less busy than the morning rush or lunchtime.
Are there budget-friendly options at coffee shops in Grand Forks?
Yes, many coffee shops offer budget-friendly options such as drip coffee and daily specials. Additionally, some places offer loyalty programs or discounts for students and frequent visitors.
Do coffee shops in Grand Forks offer Wi-Fi for customers?
Most coffee shops in Grand Forks provide free Wi-Fi for customers, making them great spots for studying or remote work. It's always a good idea to check with the staff for the Wi-Fi password upon arrival.
Are there any coffee shops in Grand Forks that offer vegan or gluten-free options?
Yes, several coffee shops in Grand Forks offer vegan and gluten-free options, such as plant-based milk alternatives and gluten-free pastries. It's recommended to ask the staff about specific dietary needs to ensure availability.
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