In the bustling Whittier neighborhood of Minneapolis, where culture and creativity meet on every street corner, one café has swiftly risen from local gem to community cornerstone. Rise & Grind Café isn’t just fueling the Twin Cities with exceptional coffee—it’s energizing a movement built around inclusion, art, and small business collaboration. Featured as a Most Visible Brand on CompaniesByZipCode.com and recently highlighted by local media for their community-driven impact, Rise & Grind is not only trending in the neighborhood—it’s redefining what it means to be a local café with purpose.

Want to discover the flavor behind one of Minneapolis’ most talked-about cafés? Wondering how a simple cup of coffee has become a symbol of social change, cultural celebration, and local entrepreneurship? We sat down with the team behind Rise & Grind Café to explore what has everyone buzzing—beyond just the caffeine. Keep reading and you’ll see why this spot should be your next stop.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Business Overview
• Community Impact
• Customer Experience
• Visual Snapshot: Inside Rise & Grind Café
• Why You Should Visit
• Explore More on CompaniesByZipCode.com

Introduction

Rise & Grind Café has become a beacon in Minneapolis for more reasons than its signature roast. Nestled on Nicollet Avenue in the vibrant 55408 ZIP code, this locally-owned café is committed to doing things differently. From sourcing beans ethically to hosting community events and art shows, Rise & Grind is serving up more than just your morning latte—it’s blending commerce with community in a way that resonates well beyond city limits.

Business Overview

A Cup of Passion, a Dash of Purpose

Founded in 2019 by local entrepreneur and barista-turned-business-owner Jada Simmons, Rise & Grind Café was born from a simple mission: to create an inclusive coffee space that reflects the rich multicultural fabric of South Minneapolis. What began as a humble operation inside a shared storefront has evolved into a full-scale café beloved for its craft coffee, artisan pastries, and bold approach to community engagement.

What They Offer:

• A rotating menu of ethically sourced espresso drinks, cold brews, and teas
• Locally baked goods with vegan and gluten-free options
• Signature drinks like the “Lavender Uprising Latte” and “Maple Roots Cold Brew”
• A retail space featuring products from BIPOC-owned local businesses
• A coworking corner and flexible event space for pop-ups and performances

What sets Rise & Grind apart in the saturated coffee scene is its unique blend of flavors and philosophies. Everything is intentional—from the direct-trade Guatemalan beans to the community bookshelf that features local authors and poets.

“We want customers to leave a little more inspired than when they walked in,” says Simmons.

Community Impact

More Than Just Coffee—It’s a Movement

Rise & Grind isn’t just popular for what’s in its mugs—it’s celebrated for how it uses its space and business model to empower others. Here are just a few ways this café is making its mark:

1. Championing Local Creatives

Each quarter, the café rotates its art displays to showcase local artists, with a focus on underserved voices. In partnership with nearby galleries and schools, Rise & Grind turns its walls into galleries—exposing customers to Minneapolis’ diverse talent and launching opportunities for artists to sell their work commission-free.

2. Economic Empowerment

Jada Simmons has always envisioned Rise & Grind as an incubator. The café’s retail section features local Black- and Indigenous-owned businesses—from skincare to snacks—and hosts regular “Meet the Makers” events that allow small entrepreneurs to connect with community buyers face-to-face.

3. Youth and Education Support

Through partnerships with local nonprofits like AchieveMpls and the Whittier Alliance, Rise & Grind mentors high school interns each semester, equipping them with real-world business skills, barista training, and entrepreneurial insights.

4. Cultural Events and Panels

From Juneteenth celebrations to LGBTQ+ storytelling nights, the café regularly hosts social and cultural events that promote understanding, reduce barriers, and bring neighbors together.

Customer Experience

Coffee with a Side of Human Connection

If Yelp and Google reviews are anything to go by, stepping into Rise & Grind feels more like entering someone’s welcoming living room than a commercial coffeehouse. The staff greets regulars by name, the music is always curated with local artists in mind, and the menu changes often just enough to keep things exciting. Here’s what customers are saying:

“The vibe is unmatched. I grabbed a Maple Roots Cold Brew and ended up staying for two hours chatting with the owner and browsing the zines.”

“Hands down the best vegan scone I’ve ever had. But more than that, I love what this café stands for—it’s a space created with intention.”

“Just attended their Pride Poetry Night. The barista performed too! It was a beautiful, emotional night. This café is more than a café.”

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, the consistent takeaway is clear: Rise & Grind is more than a coffee stop—it’s a lifestyle spot where authenticity and artistry come together.

Visual Snapshot: Inside Rise & Grind Café

Cozy, art-filled interiors showcase rotating local artists

The famed Lavender Uprising Latte surrounded by handmade ceramic mugs

Open mic poetry night hosted monthly—free for all ages

(All images courtesy of Rise & Grind Café. Used with permission.)

Why You Should Visit

• Support a Black-woman-owned business committed to ethical sourcing and social impact
• Enjoy one-of-a-kind coffee and bakery items you won’t find anywhere else
• Discover emerging artists, participate in culture-focused events, and connect with community members
• Experience Minneapolis from a grassroots, authentic perspective

Rise & Grind Café isn’t just a place to grab a superior espresso—it’s where you can grow your network, nourish your community roots, and spark conversation. Whether you’re a Minneapolis native or passing through, this café is one experience your tastebuds and soul won’t forget.

Explore More on CompaniesByZipCode.com

Looking to find more standout businesses in the 55408 ZIP code and beyond? Browse curated listings, read customer reviews, and discover small businesses that define their neighborhoods. Visit CompaniesByZipCode.com and support your local economy today.

*This feature is part of the Local Business Spotlight Series, proudly highlighting outstanding businesses in communities across the U.S. Subscribe for weekly profiles and discover the heart behind your favorite ZIP code.*