Backstory Coffee Roasters - North Loop

Backstory began in Saint Paul in 2014 as a roaster committed to long-term relationships with producers and importers. In the North Loop it occupies The Duffey’s lobby, a generous, high-ceilinged room where beans roasted across the river become espresso, batch brew, pour-overs, cold brew and seasonal drinks. The Minneapolis bar opened in 2022; the coffee’s origin story remains tied to the Saint Paul roasting operation.

The counter adds pastries, grab-and-go items and hot sandwiches. Customer comments often return to espresso, lattes, croissants and the room itself: tall windows, plants, sofas and communal tables that invite a book or laptop. It is a good choice when a pause needs to last longer than a quick pickup, and an informal meeting point before exploring Washington Avenue.

Not every item lands the same way for every guest. One recent review praised the service and food but found a pastry cold; the business replied that pastries are baked each morning and served at room temperature, while hot dishes are available for those who prefer them. If you want something warm, ask about the hot menu; if coffee and a spacious room are the priority, this is more distinctive than a grab-and-go counter.

Sources: Backstory: North Loop location and offerings · Backstory: company story and sourcing · Google Maps: Backstory Coffee Roasters - North Loop