5 Ann Arbor Cafes Serving Good Vibes

1.) Comet Coffee

One of the greatest aspects of Comet is its location in Nickels Arcade, downtown Ann Arbor’s covered shopping district. Everyone seems to get along well in this crowded space filled with coffee aromas. For an added bonus, order a cappuccino or latte and you will also be served a complimentary sparkling water. They have daily specials, like a Maple Anis Star latte, which is amazing.

16 Nickels Arcade

2.) RoosRoast

Check out this groovy, solar-powered hangout outside of downtown. RoosRoast has a smaller location downtown, however, their space on Rosewood is better suited for a relaxing cup of java. They have a really accepting vibe, with random strangers sitting around the table or even customers dancing to the fresh tunes playing. A large outdoor seating area with picnic tables is what many prefer when the weather is nice. They offer a unique Mexican inspired drink called the Ancho Poncho Mocha. The last sip is the best with a thick chocolate paste and spicy ancho pepper tingle. They also serve delicious breakfast burritos which pair well with their homemade hot sauces.

1155 Rosewood


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3.) Q Bakehouse

6.) Double cortados atop outdoor sidewalk table at Q Bake House.
Double cortados atop outdoor sidewalk table at Q Bake House.

Q Bakehouse recently reopened after closing in May due to some permit issues. Neighbors lobbied to still support it as an online pickup system when they temporarily had to close their storefront. They offer highly original Taiwanese-Chinese baked goods served by friendly staff. Customers can enjoy their treats in a quaint outdoor seating area. The space inside is small, but there is lots of love and tolerance within.

1608 Jackson Avenue

4.) Dozer

7.) Friendly staff at the counter and spacious inside and outside at Dozer.
Friendly staff at the counter and spacious inside and outside at Dozer.

This coffee shop boasts many breakfast and lunch options, in addition to delightful teas and coffee. Unique lattes, like the “Love Island Latte,” are also available here. The space is approachable and airy and has a large outdoor area. It was not too loud inside, but there was musical chatter from all. This coffee shop is connected to the Homes Brewery and Homes Campus, which also prides itself on craft beers and other tasty cocktails. So, one can also choose to get an adult beverage on the premises, as well as food trucks and pop-up options.

112 Jackson Plaza.

5.) 19 Drips Coffee and Tea

A coffee shop with a mural on the wall.
Celestial art adorns the walls at 19 drips.

This place is known around town for its friendly and quick service. The coffee shop reportedly has a small team but a big goal: “bring the third-wave experience from Yemen to Ann Arbor.” When visiting, we tried a traditional American latte and their daily special, spiced with chestnut and honey, both in beautiful glasses. Their use of Yemenese ingredients in their coffee and baked goods make for a delicious and unique cafe experience.

2891 Jackson Avenue

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Donna Marie Iadipaolo is a writer, journalist, and State of Michigan certified teacher, since 1990. She has written for national publications like The Village Voice, Ear Magazine of New Music, Insurance & Technology, and TheStreet.
She is now writing locally for many publications, including Current Magazine, Ann Arbor Family, and the Ann Arbor Independent. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where she graduated with an honors bachelor’s degree and three teacher certificate majors: mathematics, social sciences, English. She also earned three graduate degrees in Master of Science, Master of Arts, and Education Specialist Degree.