Bravo Espresso in Downtown Rochester, MN
Rochester’s Oldest Coffee Shop
Bravo Espresso has been a cornerstone of the local coffee scene since its doors first opened in 1991. As the oldest coffee shop in town, Bravo has seen the city grow and evolve, all while staying true to its roots—serving excellent coffee and heartfelt community spirit.
A Place Where Everyone Knows Your Name
At Bravo, it’s not just about the coffee; it’s about the people. As one of the staff members, James Harden enthusiastically shares, “90% of our business is return customers.” Stepping into Bravo feels more like visiting a friend than walking into a business.
It’s not just the regulars that make this coffee shop special; the team working behind the counter is a close-knit group of friends. “I work with three, four of my best friends, so we just have a great time,” Harden mentions. This camaraderie trickles down into the customer experience, making Bravo more than just a place to grab a cup of joe—it’s a space to share stories, laugh, and connect.
A Focus on Local Ingredients
One of the things that makes Bravo stand out is its commitment to sourcing local ingredients, fostering a true sense of community through its offerings. The honey in their famous Café Miel comes locally sourced from The Bee Shed, and the cider is sourced from a nearby orchard in Elgin. “We really try to just make it about the community and everybody in it,” Harden says.
Come for the Coffee, Stay for the Community
With over three decades of service, Bravo has become more than just a coffee shop. It’s a place where you’re greeted by familiar faces, where every order feels like a conversation with an old friend, and where the focus is always on making someone’s day a little brighter. As Harden puts it, “We try to get to know everybody, and it’s kind of more like a friend coming to visit than a customer.”
If you’re in Downtown Rochester, Bravo is a must-visit for its rich history, excellent coffee, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel right at home.
Plan Your Visit
Located in the Galleria at University Square, Second Floor Suite 219, grab your favorite beverage at Bravo Espresso and enjoy the fun and unique shopping to be found in the Galleria. Bravo Espresso offers free Downtown parking after 5 PM and on weekends.
More about Bravo Espresso
Looking for more to explore in Downtown Rochester? There’s always something happening, from live music and dance lessons to art walks and seasonal events. Check out the full lineup of activities and make the most of your visit!
Explore our Event Calendar: downtownrochestermn.com