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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Saint Paul's best

Chai coffee spots

Made for those who oscillate between the ritual of a morning coffee and the spiced comfort of a chai.

Based on 604 Opinions
+601
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Updated April 2026
01
Stepwise Coffee image 1
Stepwise Coffee image 2
Stepwise Coffee image 3
Coffee shop

Small space with cozy, intimate atmosphere and quaint decor creates a neighborhood staple vibe. Busy on weekends, it offers freshly roasted specialty coffee and ample seating for reading or studying. Locally owned with a welcoming, vibey environment.

Strong chai flavor stands out with a smooth blend. Both hot and iced versions offer a balanced spice and sweetness.

Coffee here features freshly roasted beans with weekly roasting for peak flavor. Baristas pull smooth espresso shots and offer amazing drip coffee with deep, complementary flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was excellent and really good."

"This cafe has a super cute neighborhood vibe."

"I really enjoyed their chai."

Good to know

1

Stepwise Coffee is only open on Saturday and Sunday.

2

There is very little seating available at Stepwise Coffee.

3

Stepwise Coffee is dog friendly.

02
Abogados Cafรฉ image 1

Coffee shop offers an intimate, cozy space filled with hand-painted murals and Latin-inspired decor. The atmosphere feels like stepping into Central America, with boho chairs and potted greenery enhancing the vibe. Small size and bright, inviting design create a unique, authentic experience.

Chai here features a rich masala blend with a strong cardamom presence. Options include a spicy dirty chai latte and an iced chai with extra spice, all served with smooth milk foam art.

Espresso stands out with excellent quality and a healthy approach to coffee. The shop offers a cozy neighborhood vibe alongside fantastic coffee drinks and pastries.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and delicious."

"The Cafe staff are so friendly and knowledgeable."

"I had the best chai I've ever tasted, with extra masala."

Good to know

1

Come early for pastries; they sell out by 10am.

2

Seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

3

Lactose-free 2% milk is available for those with dietary restrictions.

03
Backstory Coffee Roasters - West Side image 1

Roasting equipment sits visible at the front, filling the small space with the rich aroma of fresh coffee. The atmosphere stays chill and welcoming, with a quiet outdoor patio that doubles indoor seating and offers a fire pit and picnic tables. Locals gather here for a relaxed vibe, enjoying freshly roasted coffee and artisanal pastries.

Chai here has a solid flavor with a noticeable spicy kick. Unique options like eggnog chai add variety to the usual offerings.

Coffee here is roasted on site with a rich, complex flavor that improves after resting. Lattes are coffee forward and well balanced, and espresso drinks are strong and crafted with care.

People are saying

"The coffee here feels like a warm, authentic greeting from real people."

"The outdoor seating area here is really nice."

"The chai here is phenomenal, light, sweet, and airy."

Good to know

1

Ordering ahead on the app is recommended for quick service.

2

The cafe has limited indoor seating, which can be uncomfortable during busy hours.

3

Expect to pay around $5 for a small cup of coffee, with prices varying for different drinks.

04
Roots Roasting image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with about six tables and a window bar seating offers a strong coffee aroma and a relaxed vibe. Atmosphere feels welcoming but leans toward quick visits rather than long stays. Space is cozy but somewhat cramped, suitable for casual meetups or morning coffee.

Chai here features a house blend that shines through without being too sweet. Options like the Cozy Chai with Oatmilk offer a yummy and balanced flavor.

Coffee here stands out for its exceptional freshness and flavorful espresso. Drinks contain a good amount of espresso, with strong cold brew and consistently tasty options.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be delicious and well-crafted."

"I found their latte to be the best I've had in a long time."

"The Cozy Chai with Oatmilk was super yummy."

Good to know

1

Getting there early is recommended if you want a bakery item, as evening items are limited.

2

Finding seating can be difficult during peak hours, especially around 3pm and 9AM.

3

There is free street parking available near the coffee shop.

05
SK Coffee: Coffee Bar & Roastery image 1

Open industrial chic space with lofty ceilings and natural light creates a bright, airy atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and laid back, suited for casual work or socializing. Plants and floral decorations add warmth to the modern, simplistic decor.

Dirty chai features a slightly spicy local brand called Chiya. Chai latte receives positive feedback for its flavor.

Coffee here is smooth and delicious with no acidity, featuring fun, unique flavors alongside classic lattes. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate, offering detailed info on coffee varietals and roasting.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and consistently excellent."

"This cafe has a really cool atmosphere with lots of plants."

"I enjoyed my dirty chai here."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy in the large lot next to the coffee shop.

2

The coffee shop is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

The bathroom requires a passcode for access.

06
Wildflyer Coffee - Saint Paul image 1

Coffee shop offers bright, open space with natural light and varied seating options including window seats. Atmosphere feels calm and welcoming, suited for reading or meeting friends. Positive energy reflects support for youth empowerment and community causes.

Strong, flavorful chai stands out here. The chai latte offers a smooth, delicious taste.

Cold brew stands out as a favorite, paired with a specialty coffee and hibiscus limeade that complement the menu. The coffee shop offers a beautiful atmosphere with comfortable seating and friendly staff.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee here."

"You have to try the cacio e pepe bagels at this cafe; they're delicious."

"I thought the chai latte was great."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site for customers.

2

A 16oz coffee costs $3.50, with an extra dollar fee for disposable cups.

3

Wildflyer Coffee supports homeless youth through job training programs.

07
Dogwood Coffee - St. Paul image 1

Modern space combines semi-private booths, outdoor patio, and varied seating including tables and bar spots. Atmosphere stays quiet and comfy despite an industrial earthy aesthetic with hard surfaces. Music selections are consistently well-chosen, supporting a relaxed vibe for work or conversation.

Offers masala chai with a nice spice level and slight sweetness. Provides a Red Wolf chai latte option preferred over coffee and a sweeter chai latte choice with oat milk.

Craft lattes come with killer latte art and a smooth, delicious taste. The coffee is consistently well made and reliable, served quickly in a clean, modern space.

People are saying

"The Coffee here is great and the staff are super friendly."

"Parking available on the street and in the bank lot next door."

"I loved their chai latte, it was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street and in the bank lot next door.

2

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for basic coffees start around $6 for a small 10-ounce drink.

08
Luminary Coffeehouse image 1

Coffee shop offers cozy interior with astrology-themed decor and local art on the walls. Quiet back patio provides ample seating, power outlets, and a dog-friendly atmosphere. Space supports work or study with free Wi-Fi and a welcoming, community-oriented vibe.

Chai latte stands out with a rich, delicious flavor. The Chai-lie Brown latte earns high marks for taste. Service includes helpful chai recommendations.

Coffee here features rich cold brew, a dreamy berry latte, and a standout Lunar Latte. Americano and other brews deliver consistent quality and flavor.

People are saying

"I loved their signature coffee drinks; they were super tasty."

"The outdoor seating out back is really nice and quiet."

"I thought the chai latte was the best on the planet."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for free across the street near Whole Foods.

2

The coffee shop is dog friendly and welcomes pets.

3

The menu features a constantly changing selection of items.

09
Hot Hands Pie & Biscuit image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Cozy breakfast spot with bright windows and vintage baking tools creating an inviting atmosphere. Nostalgic music plays at a lively volume, filling the space with energy. Seating options include ample outdoor areas, and the kitchen is visible through windows, showcasing food preparation.

Chai comes in both hot and iced versions with a yummy flavor. The hot chai is not very hot but still delicious, and the iced chai pairs well with breakfast biscuits.

Coffee comes with no bitterness and pairs well with pastries and biscuit sandwiches. Options range from simple coffee to iced drinks and full meals.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast sandwiches here to be great and satisfying."

"The coffee here is pretty good, never burnt or bitter."

"I found the chai here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The place gets busy quickly, especially during peak hours.

2

Free parking is available in the lot behind the building.

3

They have ample outside seating available for guests.

10
yellowbird coffee bar image 1

Small cafe with cozy seating and community-centered decor featuring maps and local art. Atmosphere stays quiet and friendly, welcoming all ages and supporting activities like crafting and studying. Outlets at nearly every table and dog-friendly policy add to its inviting vibe.

Chai comes as a powder base here, which tastes okay but not very fresh. The chai latte pairs well with simple food like a turkey sandwich.

Unique crafted coffee drinks like the honey lavender latte and Hamline latte stand out here. The dark roast drip coffee and lattes are very tasty, served in a cozy spot with excellent service.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was delicious and pretty good."

"It's a quiet place, perfect for reading or studying."

"I found the chai latte to be yummy."

Good to know

1

Yellowbird Coffee does not accept cash.

2

Parking behind the store is very convenient.

3

The shop is dog friendly, allowing pets inside.

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Saint Paul, Minnesota

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