Espresso Bay

178

374

6 years ago

Came here for a quick coffee and breakfast. Was very happy because it's one of the only coffee places open for dine it. The place is pretty big with lots of seating. I got the skinnie Minnie smoothie and it was delicious and refreshing. The coffee tasted great. My husband got an everything bagel and it was surprisingly really good. It can be a hit or miss getting bagels at coffee shops but this was so good and tasted fresh. I'm looking forward to coming back! read more

Espresso Bay - Skinnie Minnie smoothie - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

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F C.

179

5 years ago

BEST LATTE EVER. I'd consider myself a latte connoisseur, and this place was amazing! Saw their sign said "CBD AVAILABLE," and I thought "no way are they serving CBD LATTES???!!!" Sure enough they do!!!!! I got the cherry blossom latte with 5mg of CBD, and it's the best latte I've ever had. I wish this place was local! You can of course get any drink without CBD! read more

Espresso Bay - Cherry Blossom LATTE - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

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Alli H.

5 years ago

Always amazing!! This is a classic coffee shop that also offers great frozen drinks. The chai is so good with great spices and hints of anise maybe? So good. And the lavender fields drink is a hidden gem. I was hesitant but I'm getting this drink every time. read more

Espresso Bay - Lavender Fields and Chai - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

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Chris N.

2 years ago

Love to try local coffee shops as I travel. This one gets top marks. I had a great Chai tea - nice flavor I hadn't had before. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The inside is really nice with a lot of tables to sit and big windows to people watch or just enjoy the light.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Read my book and chilled. They also have a cute little shop where i found a snoopy mug I had to have. A little of coffees and teas to buy. The staff today was beyond great and friendly. I think I like Michigan! read more

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John F.

259

613

6 years ago

The service and charm at this coffee shop is excellent. The menu options are also plentiful. However, after visiting a couple of times, I can't say that the coffee is amazing and knocked my socks off. The pastries are also okay overall. I think it's a good place so someone that might appreciate the atmosphere more than the coffee. read more

Espresso Bay - Coffee and Pastries - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

Espresso Bay - Atmosphere - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

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Lucy G.

280

728

6 years ago

So many coffee places in this little downtown. This place is super cute inside, lots of options for coffee. They even have kombucha on tap! Some pastries, didn't try any. I got a nitro cold brew with oat milk and 2 pumps of caramel sauce over light ice, it was perfect! read more

Espresso Bay - Nitro Cold Brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

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Catlyn G.

Elite 21

100

7 years ago

Stumbled upon this coffee shop while I was in the area, and as soon as I walked in I was excited! The list of drinks is a little overwhelming, but that's a good issue to have. They also offer some pastries, bakery items, and some tea's. The atmosphere is also very welcoming! I went on a Sunday morning and they were busy, but the line didn't take long. The only negative is that the cashier was a little snappy to an employee. I'm sad that this isn't my local coffee shop. I will be coming back when I'm in the area! read more

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Molly Z.

188

697

502

5 years ago

The space is inviting and the menu has a lot to offer. I went with an iced lavender latte with oatmilk and it was great. They have a ton of pre bagged beans you can buy in a handful of flavors. I checked in on Yelp and was able to get a free brewed coffee for my husband. He said it had good flavor! A nice place to stop if you're exploring downtown TC. read more

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Amethyst W.

327

777

7828

7 years ago

We started and ended our day excursion here. They have a lot of good options here for coffee, smoothies, and teas. The service was nice and they are one of the few places that let you use their bathrooms which is a plus for the area. If you are interested in CBD, they had a table set up there selling oils, candies, and dog treats with samples and people who answered questions. It was interesting to learn about it while waiting for coffee! read more

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Sarah C.

3 years ago

I ordered an iced latte with coconut milk. The coffee took a long time, that's fine. There were quite a few customers waiting. When I got my drink, there were chunks floating on the top. I don't know if their coconut milk was old or they don't shake their milks, but it was gross. I skimmed off the chunks and was on my way. I knew I wouldn't get much help since my drink took awhile to make. read more

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Michael ..

3 years ago

Had the best drink of my life a few days ago. EB's cherry/oat/matcha from their tent at the Festival. But alas, today that was dethroned by an even better drink...EB's cherry/oat/matcha/chocolate from their tent at the Festival. The great/engaging team on both days was a bonus. Thanks gang! read more

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John A.

3 years ago

The drink tasted horrible. I asked for a different one and they wanted me to pay for it. The teenager running the place was the rudest customer service I've ever had. read more

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Madz H.

2 years ago

Love this shop, nice workers and good environment to study or talk with friends, their smoothies are inconsistent depending on the person that makes them they are either just right, very watery from ice or chunky. But ig the mystery on what I'll get after ordering the same menu item adds to the thrill... ig. read more

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Nick M.

Elite 23

131

5 years ago

This was our first stop after parking in Traverse City. It was a perfect beginning to our day. The biggest thing that I can appreciate is the different blends and roasts of coffee beans. We grabbed a Traverse City blend which is a beautifully roasted medium roast. One of the things that we do everywhere we go, especially at local roasters is buy their signature blend and roast. So I am very excited to bring it back and have a little taste of Traverse City in my home town. The shop is colorful and fun and the staff were sweet and knowledgeable. Every shelf that they have is stocked with fun coffee blends with flavors and names inspired by local towns and landmarks. The only downside that I had was the slight disorganization regarding orders. However it will not stop me from coming back. You can't keep me away from a small-batch roaster. read more

Espresso Bay - Panorama of the bar and cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

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Lauren L.

Elite 24

6 years ago

This little gem is a diamond in the rough, even amongst area competition-- like the foam atop a latte, Espresso Bay is *thee* top! The coffeehouse boasts a comforting and unique aesthetic, featuring housemade desserts, with carefully and locally-sourced coffee and snack sides to have alongside your drink. There are also so many options, you'll never get tired of the menu. Also, I can't help but stop by this place every time I visit downtown-- I've been here plenty of times because all I've ever made here were good memories comprising of a quaint and pleasant experience to boot with the TC summer times. Always such a nostalgic experience, all across the 6 years I've come to visit again and again. I LOVE you, Espresso Bay-- please don't change too much, because this place is SUCH A GOOD THING for the downtown area and our coffee-loving souls! read more

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D W.

147

4 years ago

Sadly this place is lacking in cleanliness. Coffee is colored water! Staff doesn't seem to care that the counters were sticky and bathrooms were well... gross! Time for a drastic revamp! read more

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Michael C.

Elite 23

112

199

4 years ago

This place has fantastic coffee. A huge variety of flavors the choose from, and I saw them hand pouring most cups. I ended up going the latte route and was incredibly pleased (Caramel vanilla. I know, it sounds too sweet, but it was just right). They also sell most of their coffee flavors as bags of beans, make sure you grab one, it is incredibly pleasant to enjoy them at home and remember your time up on the lake. I must say jo matter how busy it was the baristas were incredibly friendly, I would consider adding more baristas because I don't know how they kept up with the nonstop line with a smile for everyone! read more

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Barbie F.

5 years ago

Rude staff walked in and basically was told to leave... closing soon, turning off equipment. Won't ever go back or recommend..hope she was the owner cause they lost my business. read more

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Kate B.

256

149

7 years ago

This place was great. The coffee was good and they even offered a pour over if other coffee flavors. My husband drinks tea and he loved the wide selection to choose from They have adorable gifts and a hot fireplace with comfy couches. They even have a public restroom. This was a great stop in! So far the only unpretentious place I have found in this city to relax and enjoy. Thank you. read more

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Megan B.

Elite 24

4 years ago

We went twice in one trip to Traverse to this gem. I highly recommend their Cherry Royale smoothie and their Cappuccino with a half shot of Cherry flavor. I mean, Traverse City is the Cherry capital of the world so just trust me on the Cherry theme. read more

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Melanie M.

192

134

9 years ago

Quiet place for coffee and gelato. We walked into 2 different coffee/gelato shops in downtown Traverse City looking for something non-dairy for my son's allergy needs. Neither of those places could be bothered to help. However, at Espresso Bay the service was excellent and they were happy to share the ingredients of their lemonade chiller. They went one step further to ensure blender was washed of milk for him. We didn't ask them to do that but we appreciate it. Thank you so much! It's the little things that are really big things that make all the difference. read more

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Alicia S.

Elite 23

362

131

7 years ago

They had some great options for a non-coffee drinker like me. The chai latte was delish and the owner made it for me after my husband ordered the wrong drink without an issue. Thanks Espresso Bay! read more

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Barbara H.

3 years ago

Great coffee and super-friendly service! While you wait for your order you can shop the packaged coffees and teas!

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Jenna M.

5 years ago

I was so stoked to try out a new coffee place, but I was overall pretty disappointed, unfortunately...the interior is SO cute and cozy, but neither of the baristas working was kind or welcoming and my oat milk mocha had a real funky aftertaste. Bummer! read more

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Ellen C.

5 years ago

Very nice local coffee shop with a decent Americano priced fairly & a barista who was gracious & accommodating.Considering he was working alone he had an amazing attitude & acted caring towards patrons. read more

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Rob S.

248

5 years ago

This was the second time we came here in the last few months, and we encountered the same rude staff member both times. We walked in and up to the counter and she just stared at us. No greeting, no "Hello", nothing. Same as last time. We said hello and ordered...my friend didn't say a menu item correctly and she snobbishly said "I don't know what that is", clearly knowing what he was trying to say. We liked our latte's, but we will not be back. It's a shame, because it's local and it is cute. Treat your customers better. read more

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Lauren G.

4 years ago

I love espresso bay! It's a little on the pricier side but the people there are kind and understanding. 90% of the time my drink is made exactly how I like it and I'm very pleased with them! Definitely recommend visiting if you want great coffee,smoothies or muffins! My favorite breakfast place. read more

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Emily G.

175

5 years ago

Yummy coffee and baked goods in a very cute and relaxing hangout space. It was decorated for Christmas and I really enjoyed my time spent sipping a cherry latte in this space. They have cute merchandise and goods you can buy as well. read more

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Danielle F.

Elite 22

146

7 years ago

The coffee was good in flavor but a little weak. They handled a complex order for 4 with ease and speed. But even better than that... go to the back... FIVE STARS for Dan's Mom's home made gelato served by Dan himself. Oh my gosh the cupcake tasted just like a frosted cupcake with sprinkles. read more

Espresso Bay - Coffee menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

Espresso Bay - Gelato!!! Dans moms homemade - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Traverse City, Michigan

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JY L.

4 years ago

excellent flavor specialty is recommendable various choice is available kind and nice clerk read more

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Deb M.

3 years ago

Our cappuccino and latte were great! The place is cozy and comfortable. We enjoyed our time visiting and having a coffee at this cute place!

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Martha R.

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

1176

638

8 years ago

I like this place okay. It's right in the heart of downtown TC, it's got decent coffee, and the windows are great for watching people go by. The windows aren't so great during the winter though, as it can get cold in there! Sitting by the fire is your best bet. :) Anyway, overall good place to get some caffeine going, but nothing that you should go out of your way to hit. read more

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Janet W.

6 years ago

Total mess. College kids unable to handle a busy Saturday. Customers staying as patrons need a restroom to use. Covid or not. Completely absurd. We will never return. To many options for good coffee and atmosphere in TC. Seriously the owners need to consider who is representing this place. As my husbands coffee was being made the young man observed there wasn't much in the cup ... he was instructed to fill the cup with hot water vs. coffee. Total shit show. read more

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Jennifer W.

Elite 18

137

8 years ago

I thought this was ok. There are a LOT of coffee shops in the area so I think there's probably something better. Service was quick and relatively friendly, drinks didn't take too long and they were fairly busy. Lots of seating, clean restrooms. I thought it was a little pricey, my bill was $17 for a medium latte, a small smoothie, a cookie, and a scone. My latte was ok, it was supposed to be caramel but I honestly couldn't taste any. My daughter didn't care for her mixed berry smoothie and tossed it after drinking maybe 1/5 of it. My blueberry scone was delicious and my daughter loved her cookie. Overall decent but I think next time I'll try something else. read more

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Alexandre F.

6 years ago

Don't think outside the box here. You will be shamed and judged. Follow the rules and order accordingly. Don't be fooled by the build your own smoothie. I tried to ask a question about what can go in the smoothie and got shamed "just trying to save you" was the exact words. Thanks. Won't be back. read more

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Frank R.

5 years ago

First off, the employee behind the counter, and I mean the only employee, Hope was awesome!! She was not only kind, knowledgeable about the business, but patient and welcoming. She helped me out and explained a few drinks to help me decide which one I would rather have. The coffee and smoothie we goy were delicious. Lastly, she was working by herself. God bless her!! And she did it flawlessly. She never missed a beat and it showed she knew what she was doing, no issues noted. read more

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Ranvir R.

12 years ago

Very nice place great coffee Dan guy , the owner him self was serving Great hospitality. read more

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KimTim M.

5 years ago

I love Expresso Bay. Good people who make great coffee!! Thank for being a great place to sit, laugh and talk!!

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Gretchen K.

4 years ago

Went in today to grab a cup of coffee to go. Used the restroom, and ugh.....it was filthy. Seat was up (co-Ed restrooms) and covered in urine, floor, walls, door all beat up and disgusting....worse than a gas station. The station for napkins, etc. was also really dirty, sticky. Do they ever clean this place? Just grossed out. You're in food service. Clean it up! read more

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Back

Page 2 of 5

202 E Front St
Traverse City, MI 49684
Directions
(231) 715-1856
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.espressobay.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Espresso Bay open?

Espresso Bay opens at 7:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Espresso Bay opens at 8:00 AM on Sunday.

What time does Espresso Bay close?

Espresso Bay closes at 6:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Espresso Bay closes at 7:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu 7:00 AM - 6:00 PMFri-Sat 7:00 AM - 7:00 PMSun 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Espresso Bay take credit cards?

Yes, Espresso Bay takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Espresso Bay have catering options?

No, Espresso Bay does not have catering options.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Espresso Bay have bike parking?

Yes, Espresso Bay has bike parking.

Does Espresso Bay have outdoor seating?

Yes, Espresso Bay has outdoor seating options.

Does Espresso Bay have parking?

Yes, Espresso Bay has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Does Espresso Bay have free WiFi?

Yes, Espresso Bay has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Exclusive home of Golden Espresso, creamy smooth and rich, never black or harsh. Lattes, cappuccino, Bay chillers, frozen blended espresso drinks. Milkyway mochas, pumpkin lattes, real fruit smoothies. We roast our own coffee, fair trade and organic. Homemade baked goods, scones, muffins, bagels, cookies and biscotti.

History

Established in 2003.

Ex-Seattleite to Open Gourmet Coffee and Smoothie Bar in old Stage Milliken Building, Downtown Traverse City Espresso Bay Owner, Ray Dornbusch, a Michigan native and 15 year resident of Traverse City, recently spent 5 years in Seattle, the hottest coffee market in the country, home of Starbucks and Seattle's Best Coffee. He spent two years preparing to open the first of what he hopes will be many Espresso Bay and Juice Island gourmet coffee and smoothie bars. This first flagship store will be open 120 hours/week starting late winter 2003, in the very heart of downtown Traverse City, on the first floor corner of the old Stage Milliken's Building. Espresso Bay will seat 100 people including a private meeting room for 25. Outdoor seating will be available seasonally. By focusing almost exclusively on coffee, smoothies, gelato and a few pastries, Espresso Bay can consistently provide the highest quality and fast, fast service, for sit down and to go. Whole bean sales.

Meet the Manager: Dan G.

Meet Dan Espresso bay's new Manager and owner. Dan is active Traverse City guy who enjoys paddle boarding, coffee and all things outdoors.

Ask the Community - Espresso Bay

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1.4 mi

Sort off down a ways by the Starbucks in Traverse City, but by far the best bagel sandwich spot in…read morethe area. No real good quick stop cafes or coffeeshops that serve bagels like this from what I've found. Everyone else seems to think the same... place was packed. Line out the door on a Sunday morning in the summertime. However, skip the line and order online. Estimated wait time is pretty accurate. Take your bagel to the beach nearby and eat it there. Can't beat the view.

Loved this bagel shop!! One of my favorite places we went to in Traverse City. It seems super…read morepopular because it's likely the best bagel you'll get in this area. They also sell a bunch of different bagel flavors I've never seen before and they have a great cream cheese selection, including seasonal cream cheeses (such as strawberry for the summer) and a vegan cream cheese made with cashews. When we arrived around 9am, there was a pretty long line out the door but it moved quickly. All the bagels are made fresh in-house and they do not toast the bagels because of how fresh they are. They're constantly making them and restocking the bagels. I ordered an everything bagel with plain cream cheese, and they really respect the schmear here--genuinely the most cream cheese I've ever gotten on a bagel lol. Obviously it was delicious. The employees were super friendly. There's no seating inside or outside, so bagels have to be taken to-go.

The Nosh on Black Pepper Parmesan

NOSH on zaatar bagel

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Jul 2025

Mammoth Distilling

Popped into mammoth to listen to some afternoon live music on a Wednesday afternoon. Such a relaxed…read morevibe! Love the dimmer lighting here. The bartender Hallie is a sweetheart, so warm and welcoming! Love the fresh cold fuzzy cans of soda!

Absolutely LOVE this place! Highly recommend. I have a small group of friends that like to go as…read moremuch as possible and we are always greeted with friendly staff. Hunter always goes above and beyond for his Sunday crew Try the Gin and Tonic!!

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Peninsula Cellars

Great place to enjoy a "Study Break Flight" and let the kids enjoy recess! The team here is always…read moregreat and generous!

My friends and I stopped in here on a Tuesday a couple of weeks ago for a wine tasting and had such…read morea fun time. It was very busy with customers coming in and out, but we had a tasting at the bar and our server was super knowledgeable and friendly. She gave plenty of recommendations, broke down pricing/sales going on, and different mixes she likes to drink. The wine was crisp and refreshing and they have plenty of stock on hand for customers who want to take bottles home. This was my second time coming here, the first time was a few years ago with family and we sat outside on their cozy patio. Both visits were great and I definitely recommend stopping in here if you're visiting Traverse City!

The picnic snack and flight.

Cider flight!

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16 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Casey K.

136

3 years ago

Espresso Bay is a fantastic coffee shop that truly stands out in the Traverse City area. Their attention to detail in crafting high-quality beverages is evident in every sip, and their friendly and knowledgeable staff only adds to the welcoming atmosphere of the shop. I wish we had one in the local Detroit Area. The Peppermint Crunch Chip Cold Brew Coffee I ordered after breakfast at The Towne Plaza was the perfect morning pick-me-up. The refreshing mint flavor combined with the rich coffee and crunchy peppermint chips is a unique and delightful combination that I enjoyed thoroughly. Beyond their exceptional beverages, Espresso Bay also has a cozy and inviting atmosphere that makes it a great spot to relax and unwind--especially but the massive stone fireplace. The comfortable seating, warm lighting, and charming decor create an ambiance that is perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done. Overall, I highly recommend Espresso Bay to anyone in the Traverse City area looking for a top-notch coffee experience and a unique array of coffee and non-coffee drinks. From their delicious drinks to their inviting atmosphere and friendly staff, Espresso Bay truly has it all. read more

Mary M.

10 years ago

if I could do a .5 or less, I would. On July 3rd, my guests and I had the worst service we've had in all of Traverse City. We will NEVER come back here, and we will tell everyone we know not to go here. All we came in for was a quick gelato, and our guests were treated with the worst attitude from the woman behind the counter - impatient, comments under her breath, rudeness. Our son wanted us to walk out, but we didn't want our guests to feel like they were more of a problem than they were being treated by this horrid woman. We even went as far as to wonder if the woman was profiling our guests, as they were middle eastern. HORRENDOUS BUSINESS. TOTAL disgrace to Traverse City's economy. Don't support racist, unkind people. Just don't. read more

Mr K.

13 years ago

Okay, I feel like someone of these reviews are really harsh. I cannot disagree more. In the past I was unimpressed with Espresso Bay, however they have really stepped up. I think the owner must have recognized things weren't going well. They have all new employees, and totally new management. Everything tastes better, and my personal favorite is their chillers: the peanut butter one is to die for, and I also really like the blended frozen chai. Their espresso is great, it has a hint of sweetness and I love the flavor mixed with the chocolate, so their mochas I have to say are the best in town. I would give it another try. read more

Michael L.

9 years ago

So this weekend my family and I went to Espresso Bay for dessert. The sign said open but when we walked in to stand in the big line the lady at the counter said "we're closed" in a snotty voice, and would not serve us, making us feel like we did something wrong, even though the outside sign was lit up and said open. Due to that snotty behavior I would not go there ever or recommend it to anyone. read more

Coffee G.

13 years ago

In the past I was not a fan of espresso bay at all. I went back recently after years of avoiding the place, and was so pleasantly surprised. The entire staff is new and friendly, including new management which seems to be two sisters, who know there stuff, and are seriously sweet and funny. The blonder manager made my caramel latte to perfection. ESPRESSO BAY DESERVES A SECOND CHANCE!!!! read more

Kate M.

13 years ago

I am a fan of Espresso Bay for sure. I really like their Milkyways. Their new pour overs are great too, with a little raw sugar and cream. Mmm... I miss the old Hammond location, cause it was so quiet and cozy, but I also love the down town store. It is full of windows, and you can just sit infront of the fire and watch all the people walking by, it is really nice. read more

Ben B.

7 years ago

Cute spot. Workers were very friendly, and willing to help find a good snack. Only down side was the pastries they had were not made in house. Still very good! read more

Phillip M.

12 years ago

The new owners are really turning the place around. If you had issues in the past I strongly recommend giving the new owners a chance.

Eva S.

8 years ago

Got 2 coffees and they were self serve which is fine but at least have it be hot. The coffees were almost cold. THIS PLACE SUCKS!

Isaac H.

10 years ago

We both had breakfast sandwiches which were delicious. Very friendly service and fast.

Lexi D.

2 years ago

Friendly staff and great coffee. Would recommend coming here if you're not in a rush!

Brianna B.

9 years ago

The smoothies are amazing and so is their shakes Good service as well read more

Nikki W.

13 years ago

Terrible service (the guy was rude and arrogant)

Rachel K.

8 years ago

Always friendly, great bulletproof!

Craig M.

11 years ago

Fun barista and good latte's!!!

Heidi K.

14 years ago

My Favorite in town!!!

Espresso Bay - coffee - Updated August 2026

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