Caffeine seems to be a necessity in a world full of constant to-do lists, grueling eight-hour shifts, and endless activities. Luckily, the Fargo-Moorhead area has plenty of locally owned (and chain) coffee shops that will satisfy your coffee cravings and delight your taste buds. There is not a particular spot that surpasses the others because each one is distinct in its own way. Check them all out and let us know your favorite.
604 Main Ave., Fargo
The environment is low-key, comfortable, and perfect for a casual cup of Joe with a friend. Babb’s is what’s considered “a taste of Seattle” in the F-M area. The coffee beans are airlifted from Seattle weekly, providing a refreshing Northwest aroma. There are plenty of comfy chairs, so bring a friend, sit down, and get your Instagram ready to snap a pic of your pretty latte.
115 4th St. S., Moorhead
Third Drop Coffee is a favorite of Moorhead college students, located just a few minutes down Fourth Street. This third-generation shop offers a cozy environment with a warm fireplace, a cute boutique area, and plenty of chairs and tables so students can chat, study, or simply enjoy the comfort of a mocha, Third Drop’s most popular beverage. I’ll let you in on a cool secret too — this mocha has real chocolate milk in it, not that powdery stuff! The owners strive for authenticity, which explains why their baked goods are made fresh every morning.
222 N. Broadway, Fargo
One aspect that makes Atomic Coffee distinct is the open spaces. Large windows overlook Broadway, providing lots of natural light, and there are plenty of seats to choose from. Atomic also has a meeting room that students or organizations can reserve in advance. Do you have a group project? Go ahead and reserve it. Need to meet up for a book club? Perfect. Rest assured that you can keep yourself caffeinated while still hanging out with others in Atomic Coffee’s casual setting. Check out artwork by a local artist featured in the shop each month. Try an Italian steamer or one of the delicious sandwich options.
600 8th St. S., Moorhead
14 Roberts St. N., Fargo
Campus neighbor Twenty Below is known for community building. Walk down for trivia night or another event at the Moorhead shop. Not only is the coffee divine and the food scrumptious, but the atmosphere is cozy and bright. If you’re planning on staying put at Twenty Below, the kind baristas will offer your drinks in cute glassware like mason jars and adorable mugs. If you’re headed out of town, roll through the drive-thru and grab a 3 Bears Miel and a banana chocolate chip muffin. Don’t worry — there are vegan and gluten-free options too.
623 2nd Ave. N., Fargo
Youngblood’s aesthetic is open, bright, and hip. There isn’t a bad angle. The Arabica beans are hand-roasted and provide a fresh taste in the artisanal coffee. The shop sells local favorite Sandy’s Donuts, which pair nicely with the popular matcha latte or Americano.
2550 S. University Drive, Fargo
5675 26th Ave S., Fargo
As soon as you walk into Beans Coffee Bar, the aroma of freshly baked donuts will envelop your senses. A neat quirk about this business is that with every hot beverage you order, Beans will give you a free mini donut that sits on top of your coffee lid. It’s the perfect mix of caffeine and sweets. The atmosphere at Beans will fill you with positivity — from the inspirational quotes lining the walls and the Bean of Light quote that changes daily to the cute decor and cheery staff.
300 Sheyenne St., West Fargo
1702 1st Ave. N., Fargo (Brewhalla)
Thunder Coffee started as a mobile cart but soon grew into a permanent location on Sheyenne Street in West Fargo in 2019. When Brewhalla opened in March 2023, the Thunder fam opened its second location there (including with a drive-thru!) and those who attend events in Drekker/Brewhalls are treated with complimentary Thunder Coffee. You also might still see them around town as a vendor to continue building community and serving amazing coffee.
Published October 2023