Conveniently located in the Hamline Center of Roseville, Minnesota, Makwa Coffee is a vibrant, independent neighborhood cafe that stands as a powerful testament to the intersection of exceptional craft and inclusive community building. Founded in July 2022 by Jamie Becker-Finn, a descendant of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and a queer woman, this unique establishment proudly introduces itself as an Indigenous- and queer-owned space. The word Makwa translates to “bear” in Ojibwe, symbolizing courage and strength—traits that define the cafe’s mission to foster an authentic, welcoming sanctuary for all residents of the northern suburbs.
The visual aesthetic of Makwa Coffee beautifully merges a bright, clean Scandinavian simplicity with warm, biophilic design elements and eclectic touches. Natural light streams through the storefront windows, illuminating an inviting interior filled with thriving houseplants, cozy booths, and expansive community tables. The environment strikes a perfect balance, maintaining an ambient, relaxed energy that is equally suited for deep concentration or social connection. It has rapidly evolved into a definitive neighborhood hub for daily routines, solo work sessions, casual networking, and family weekend morning treat rituals.
What truly distinguishes Makwa Coffee from standard regional coffeehouses is its highly intentional, culturally infused menu. While serving impeccably roasted classic espresso drinks, the cafe is celebrated for its signature craft beverages, most notably the Minopokwat ( Ojibwe for “it tastes good”)—a wild rice maple latte that pays direct homage to traditional Indigenous flavors. The fast-casual, low-interaction counter service handles a diverse menu featuring locally sourced pastries from Twin Cities bakers, alongside inclusive gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, and keto options. Roughly 70% of the menu is locally sourced, ensuring that every purchase actively reinvests in the broader Minnesota creative and culinary community.
Beyond the caffeine, Makwa functions as an active cultural pipeline and inclusive gathering space. The interior features a “Big Free Library” and regular selections of community board games, while the walls frequently showcase the work of Native artists. The cafe serves as a destination for specific life moments and events, playing host to Native author book clubs, local craft nights, and seasonal pop-up markets. Complete with free high-speed Wi-Fi, accessible amenities, unisex restrooms, and a dog-friendly outdoor patio, Makwa Coffee goes far beyond the boundaries of a standard coffee shop, standing proud as a place where culture is celebrated and community is actively sustained.
