One of the items on this summer's list was to visit some non-Caribou coffee shops, so once Jen's ridiculously busy June life was done, we began with something local.Flyte coffee is on Hwy. 65, just a bit north of Lowes. While the atmosphere wasn't as eclectic as we'd like, it was nice. The barista was helpful (and gave us free cookies), and the beverages were fine. Just being in an independent-type shop engendered all sorts of discussion on jazz band night and how we'd redo the decor. I just checked their facebook page and it looks like they're trying to generate some community events, which is a great thing. We'd go back, especially when the new Goodwill store opens next door. Rating: one thumbs up for atmosphere and product. Two thumbs up for being independently owned and community minded.
Next on the list was Cafe Caffeine in Cambridge. It was definitely a little quirkier and gave the impression that they'd be glad to throw together a custom drink for you (banana-coconut blended coffee anyone?), but there was almost no seating so it really didn't feel like a place to spend a few hours, or try to hold a meeting. The biggest quality commending this place was it's connection to a food co-op and used book store. The three shared a hallway/bathroom so you could get from one to another without going outside. Rating: two thumbs up for the shared experience of the three stores, and for the coffee. One thumbs up for the limited seating.
Finally, and yes, this is a "best for last" situation, at Nick's urging we tried a place in Isanti. (I believe his directions were "It's by the feed mill someplace.") Rendez Vous Coffee is in a renovated old house on the main street off Hwy. 65. We had really good coffee and nice breakfast food. If you're a tea fan, they had about 20 options in a "fill your own tea bag" shelf in the front room. The building is full of nooks and crannies for mis-matched tables and chairs and the owner was a lot of fun to talk to. He gave us a brief tour of the upper level of the house which is three rooms available for meetings. The prices were reasonable (about $1 cheaper than Caribou for high end drinks), and they had nice seating in a flowery garden outside for warmer days. We could definitely envision Bear Country Treasures having a room here. Rating: two thumbs up in every way. We will definitely go back!
