Backstory Coffee Roasters - West Side — Restaurant in Saint Paul

What an incredible coffee experience! The coffee is excellent, and ranges from bright, contemporary roasts to more approachable, classic roasts. Drink options are varied and interesting, there is a sufficient number of snacks, and the staff and vibe are top notch.

My girlfriend and I love to hop around coffee shops, and after visiting Bootstrap only a handful of times, it became a favorite.

She likes multi-component drinks, and their menu had plenty of options that got both of us curious. The execution on all of the ones we tried was superb! I drink simple, black coffee, straight espresso and macchiatos, and the odd cappuccino.

The barista (shout out to Teeny) was super excited about the espresso options, and encouraged me to try different espressos. It doesn’t feel like they’re selling you anything when they’re so enthusiastic about the product and eager to share it.

It’s cool to see the roasting process face on, and it makes me feel intimately connected to the cup of coffee I enjoyed, from the bean to the cup!

The seating area itself is bright and modern without being cold and austere. I felt warmed and welcomed, and atmosphere is almost as important as the quality of the cup for a coffee shop.

Bootstrap’s coffee house blows all of its competitors out of the water; it’s tastier than Spyhouse, and warmer than Dogwood. It blows every other St. Paul coffee shop out...

First time at Bootstrap Coffee. There’s a lot of street parking because it’s a corner lot across from Wabasha Brewery. As you walk up to the store there’s a shattered glass side panel that’s all taped, which I found this alarming to see. I was greeted by friendly staff members once we were inside. The menu isn’t a standard board you read above the ordering counter and you’re handed a paper menu. I’d suggest having it laminated. You have to make sure you read it thoroughly. There’s small indications by the drinks that can be made cold with a snowflake and I had asked instead. There was samples out for their salted caramel cookie and it was love at first bite. Of course, we got a half pound caramel cookie. Several options for pastries like doughnuts, muffins and three types of cookies. I’m not a coffee guru, ordering a iced vanilla latte and it tasted like cold brewed coffee made at home. The lids and straws are at a separate counter to the side and I do love that there products are compostable. I scanned the indoors seating and there wasn’t a big selection due to a smaller establishment with the roasting area taking up a large portion. I didn’t really notice any patio seating as an option as I exited out...

Boy oh boy, where do I even begin. Backstory Coffee Roasters… my heart, my cozy haven. I have adored you ever since I first tasted your nectar of the gods. The way you craft that tiramisu cold brew—it’s like a symphony of sweetness and caffeine playing in perfect harmony. And that iced mocha? Silky, chocolatey perfection with every sip, like a hug for my soul.

You’ve been here since 2014, quietly changing lives with every lovingly roasted bean. Your mission to connect people through coffee is more than a goal—it’s a masterpiece. Every visit feels like coming home, every cup a story of care and passion.

Your commitment to excellence and the earth shines brighter than the Saint Paul sun in springtime. I would sacrifice my entire caffeine tolerance if it meant I could savor your brews forever. You’ve given me mornings filled with joy and afternoons made brighter. Not just a coffee shop, but a place that brews memories, hope, and unparalleled delight.

I dread the day I find myself without your tiramisu cold brew in hand, but until then, my glorious roasters, I’ll be here. Sipping, savoring, and loving every moment. You are my king of coffee, my pookie bear, my...