Higher Grounds Trading Co.

Tucked into a cozy corner of Traverse City, Good Harbor Coffee & Bakery captures the essence of Northern Michigan mornings. The aroma of freshly ground beans mingles with warm pastries emerging from the oven, creating an atmosphere that locals have embraced as their daily ritual. Sunlight streams through large windows onto mismatched wooden tables where laptops share space with dog-eared novels. The patio beckons during cherry blossom season, while inside, the chalkboard menu showcases house-made vegan muffins alongside classic breakfast fare. This neighborhood gem proves that the best coffee shops grow organically from their communities.

Cali's brings West Coast vibes to downtown Traverse City with fresh, California-inspired dishes that actually deliver on flavor. Their avocado toast goes beyond Instagram-worthy to genuinely satisfying, while grain bowls pack serious nutritional punch without sacrificing taste. The smoothie menu reads like a health food lover's dream, blending local Michigan berries with superfoods. Located right in the heart of downtown, it's perfect for grabbing a quick lunch between shopping or fueling up before hitting the trails. Clean eating doesn't have to mean boring food, and Cali's proves it daily.

Tucked away on the scenic Leelanau Peninsula, New Bohemian Cafe brings an artsy, laid-back vibe to Northern Michigan's coffee scene. This local favorite serves up expertly crafted coffee alongside hearty breakfast dishes that fuel both early risers and leisurely brunchers. The menu shines with creative vegetarian and vegan options that don't compromise on flavor. Families gravitate toward the welcoming atmosphere and kid-friendly offerings, while the inviting patio provides the perfect spot to soak up those crisp Lake Michigan mornings. Grab your order to-go for a scenic drive, or settle in and watch the peninsula come alive.

7 Brew brings drive-through coffee convenience to Grand Traverse County with a focus on speed and quality that busy locals have come to rely on. Their specialty coffee drinks go beyond basic brew, with customizable options that let you dial in exactly what you need. The takeout-focused model means you can grab your caffeine fix without leaving your car - particularly valuable during those brutal Michigan winters. Quick service doesn't mean compromised taste here, making it a solid choice when you need reliable coffee without the wait.

A popular local coffee shop on US-31 serving espresso drinks, coffee, and light fare on the east side of Traverse City.

Hill Top Soda Shoppe brings back the charm of old-fashioned soda fountains right here in Benzie County. Start your morning with hearty breakfast classics, then stick around for handcrafted sodas and sweet treats that'll transport you to simpler times. The sunny patio makes every visit feel like a mini vacation, while kids press their noses against the glass cases filled with colorful candies and house-made confections. You can grab everything to-go or settle in for a leisurely afternoon of people-watching and sugar-fueled conversations.