Water Street Coffee Joint
3037 Oakland Dr, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008
Water Street Coffee Joint Menu
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Address :
3037 Oakland Dr
Kalamazoo, MI, 49008 - Phone (269) 488-0018
- Website https://www.waterstreetcoffeejoint.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :6:00 am - 11:00pm
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Good for Working : Yes
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Dave S.
One of my fav coffe shops overall (of all coffee shops I visit or have visited). I live in and work as a Sr. Software Engineer in Chicago and drink Intelligensia coffee which for example, is one of the best coffee shops in the midwest (I don't say that lightly or carelessly...try it for yourself) located in downtown Chicago. So I am very into good coffee (i.e. Illy Brand). Also, I have a super automatic espresso machine sitting in my kitchen, etc so you know I drink a lot of good coffee :). This place simply rocks. The coffee is not your typical Starcraps/Crackbucks disgustingly overburnt low quality overwatered coffee...it's real good coffee...the way it should be. No idea why anyone would pay Starsucks those high prices when you have a good coffee shop like this in town with also a very nice and good sized atmosphere to sit down and relax or work. I am a remote worker (over vpn for a very large tech company), so glad I have this place to setup at for the day and can work over their wi-fi. Typically the wi-fi when I've had to work at Crackbucks is horrible, less than 100kb per second...because too many people jump on their lousy high speed connections. However here their network has decent bandwidth so it's all good with speed when you need to work over the net. Can't get any better than this in KZoo people. Pros: 1) High quality coffee and ingredients (whipped cream is very good, cinnamon, honey, chocolate chips you can freely take upon yourself to sprinkle on top of mochas, good quality nutmeg to sprinkle over mochas - a must). 2) The food outside of just the coffee. They have a lot of good breakfast and lunch food here and it's all very good. There's also a gelato section with some decent Gelato...probably about 10 kinds or so. So plan on being able to eat lunch here too if you're sitting all day for work. 3) The atmosphere is kick ass. It's big and relaxing and hip here. High quality leather chairs and leather couches in the back to chill on, formal tables and chairs as well everywhere to start working on whatever you may have to get done. Cons: 1) As always parking is hard to come by so be prepared to wait on the street or in their super small parking lot until someone comes out and leaves. You never have to wait long though...as there's a constant flow of people in and out every minute. So you'll be able to park usually within 5 minutes or less. Just gotta be patient. 2) Their cup sizes are misleading or could I say not really fair. Their XL really is a large at most shops. Then trickle down, their small is REALLY small. That's my only complaint. Not particularly something that makes me happy....but again this is GOOD coffee so what the hell, I will give in. 3) It can be loud in the lounge areas....because again a lot of people come here for the same Pros I've stated above. So if you're going to come here to do business or need to do some phone calls for work or whatever, it may be loud so be aware of that. There are college students galore in here which explains why. I've uploaded some pictures finally above to this yelp page...it's a shame nobody has yet. So check them out. Note, their pricing is Moderate-to-Pricey...somewhere in between. Finally, I will state that I am in no way affiliated...just your typical customer, so you can take my review as honest without any outside influence.
(5)Kyle R.
My in-laws moved to Kalamazoo a few years ago and immediately fell in love with Waterstreet; I kept hearing about it, and was excited to try it. It is now my favorite coffee shop by a long shot. The coffees are deliciously roasted, and they are obviously good quality (even though I have no real authority or knowledge to speak to this, I'm just going by taste). They have a GREAT selection of loose leaf teas as well, which helps them stand apart from most all other coffee roasters I have encountered. They sell both their coffees and their teas by the bag as well, so we can enjoy them at home. And the bags that the coffee is packaged in just look cool. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and the decor is very artistic, which make for a unique experience when staying in the shop. Overall, I really love Waterstreet, and would much rather give them my business than a larger chain such as Biggby or Starbucks, etc. My one disappointment is that they are ONLY in Kalamazoo... Now that I've moved to the East side of the state, I need my Waterstreet fix!!
(5)Joyce Y.
I love their tea and drink selections! There are standard and really unique options. While I only sampled the chai shake with Tahitian vanilla, it was very delicious. The unique flavor combinations are great and I would visit again!
(3)Dee B.
Love: - the coffee - the space - the friendly staff Dislike: - tiny parking lot - lack of menu - drink sizes are certainly smaller than what the average American has gotten used to thanks to other coffee shops.
(4)Paul W.
I usually stop when I'm in Kalamazoo visiting family. No complaints about the coffee, but the cooler of salads, sandwiches, and other lunch/dinner goodies may be the best reason to visit Very interesting and unconventional choices in the form of curries, stews, salads and sandwiches (really, buns baked around veggies, cheese, or meat) that will please the vegan and carnivore alike. Brought my dad here for lunch a couple times, and even though his tastes run along pretty conventional lines, he's liked it. Pastry selection is surprisingly limited, and parking can be atrociously difficult (fifteen spots, at most?). Yet I keep coming back, parking the next lot over and walking if need be. I live in a town with some great coffeeshops, but when I come here I find myself wishing this was one of them.
(4)Diane V.
This is for the new Center Street location in Portage I have spend many years at Oakland and Water Street and they get 5 stars also. Center Street is sleek, bright and open. It has a sun room with tall windows with a fireplace. It has a loft that is also very bright, and a lower level that is also open and bright. Service is friendly like the other Water Street locations. I love the almond milk lattes, I think they are one of the best in the area. Tables are so far easier to get than the one on Water Street. Also parking is more abundant than the other locations. You can also get slow drip coffee here for a little more money. It is fresher and stronger flavor. Very very good. They have the same food, that is always good and fresh. Wish they had some gluten free muffins or pastries. There are enough options for lunch though. I highly recommend spending a snowy morning sipping coffee with a friend while somebody is shoveling your driveway. Also great for a summer day.
(5)Gregory M.
Starbucks?! Bah, the best coffee house in Kalamazoo, bar none. Great casual atmosphere, everything from traditional tables to sofas to exterior seating.
(5)Zach G.
WSCJ is my go to place in Kalamazoo when I need to do work or relax with a cup of coffee. The Oakland location is ideal for doing homework or sitting on your laptop. There is plenty of space and seating. The staff is fantastic and friendly. The drinks are great, and so is the food.
(5)Emily O.
I love coming here for coffee. My favorite is the Mocha Del. Sol I come here a few times a week to study or prepare myself to study. I personally think their best location is the downtown one. Im not a big fan of their food but when I do order food here I get their chicken pesto sandwhich with a pickle! *Note if you do get this have them heat it up! The atmosphere is cute and quirky, however space and parking is limited so figure out their schedule!
(4)Ken H.
I'm lucky I don't live closer to Water Street Coffee Joint. I would be here all the time! The atmosphere is great at both locations, but the Oakland Drive location has much more space and more comfortable seating options. My go-to drinks are the Mocha Del Sol (a little spicy) and the Tahitian Vanilla Milkshake with a shot of espresso. Try a dessert. You won't be disappointed. I love the Chocolate Walnut Oat Bars. Water Street sells coffee and tea paraphernalia and art from local artists.
(4)Terese B.
Everything here is delish-love the coffee, the local artwork, the friendly staff, the tasty desserts and unique foods, but just have to give a quick shout out to the Tahitian Vanilla Espresso Shake. It can make a gray day shine. Woo-hoo!
(4)Karen K.
Great place to study or chat with a friend. Coffee is decent, very appealing to the eyes.
(4)Brad T.
I love the vibe of this place and the staff is really nice. While I'm not a coffee expert there coffee is pretty good, and I love that they roast and sell there beans here. Parking is tight but is better than other places like this that I've been to.
(4)Hannah P.
I just really love the atmosphere!
(4)Stefanie N.
I'm a fan of the original location so it would be hard pressed to not love their Oakland location as well. It's a lot more spacious, comfortable, and like their sister location...has the same great expansive food and drink menu in a pleasant atmosphere. Love this location!
(5)Peter M.
Always amazing! Get the white mocha, you will be stoked. Lots of cool art up on the walls. I dig it.
(5)Amanda R.
I wish it wasn't always so busy or they knock out a wall and make more seating when I go it's usually one or two seats left if were lucky. Hubby and I like to go here when were in Town. The food and coffee are great.
(5)Leigh W.
Their coffee is very well done. I have had their coffee at restaurants around the state and their brewing system and beans are great. I was a bit disappointed during my visit to "the mother ship" - was really excited to experience the source but the vibe was a bit cold, maybe it was just an off day.
(5)Lea S.
I'm moving to the kzoo area soon, so of course one if my concerns is where to get great coffee in my new town. I've been to this location of Water Street a few times now, and I'm thoroughly impressed. The staff is super nice, coffee choices are excellent and I drool over the tasty treats. I haven't tried the bottled iced coffee yet, but will on my next trip. The house made granola bars are fab - made with crystallized ginger!
(5)Jeff L.
I have visited both Water Street locations several times since moving to Kalamazoo from Northern California. When I left the state of Michigan to move out West, I moved into a wonderful coffee culture that really knew what good coffee was supposed to taste like. I thought that I would be deprived of that culture when I moved back here, but was surprised to find Water Street. They have excellent coffee, and I frequented the downtown location for years. Recently, I have tried the Oakland location because of convenience, and have been most disappointed. The coffee is the same, but there are several aspects about this location that I truly hate. Let me list them off... 1. Parking is awful 2. They have no printed menu for customers. If you walk in knowing the menu, then you are in luck, but otherwise you have to wait in a long line just to get to the counter not knowing if they can provide you with what it is that you want. There are menus available at the front counter, but they are placed at the front of the line, and there is no indication to new costumers that they even exist. 3. There is always a line! I don't understand why they wouldn't make the process of ordering and paying easier for a customer. Waiting in line for several minutes, just to wait in line for my coffee to be prepared is ridiculous when it is a constant. Better staffing during peak times might be a good idea. 4. Credit card minimums. I have been told by a lawyer that these are ILLEGAL yet they have them. I assumed that this lawyer was telling me the truth, so I said to the barista one morning "you know those are illegal right?" and her response to me was just a simple yes. Apparently I was not the first person to say something... 5. The Vibe. I am not trying to get all new age hippie here, but the general feeling that I get when I walk into this location is that I am not enough. Not worth enough, not familiar enough, not hip enough, etc. I can't put my finger on it, and I know that they service a rock solid following of regular customers, and I am an outsider in that establishment, but I am a paying customer and really shouldn't be made to feel like an outsider. 6. Pricing. This is excessive at both locations, but at the downtown one I am willing to bite the price of a $5.00 Red eye because I really do like the ambiance there. At Oakland, not so much. Don't ever go there hungry unless you have some cash too, because the food is priced higher than the coffee. They do have some really good stuff to eat and drink, I just don't think that it is worth the price. All that being said, I will probably return to the downtown location at some point. I will never go back to the Oakland store for any reason. The bad feeling, the overly high prices, and the inconvenience to the customer are not worth the aggravation...
(1)Mark R.
Small... quaint... excellent cappacino from a coffe snob. Desserts excellent.
(5)Colleen D.
I absolutely love to frequent local coffee places, and this place is quaint and awesome. The ambiance is cozy, even though I am usually flying in and out. I will have to go there on a morning when I can sit and drink my beverage in leisure. I will sometimes pop in to grab something for lunch and I have fallen in love with their pulled-pork rolls. Their scones are pretty darn good too. I have yet to try all of their tempting desserts, but they do look amazing. The parking can be a little dicey at times, but not nearly as bad as their Water Street location (in my opinion). Much better than the chain-feel of Starbucks or Biggby's.
(4)Jeff L.
I have visited both Water Street locations several times since moving to Kalamazoo from Northern California. When I left the state of Michigan to move out West, I moved into a wonderful coffee culture that really knew what good coffee was supposed to taste like. I thought that I would be deprived of that culture when I moved back here, but was surprised to find Water Street. They have excellent coffee, and I frequented the downtown location for years. Recently, I have tried the Oakland location because of convenience, and have been most disappointed. The coffee is the same, but there are several aspects about this location that I truly hate. Let me list them off... 1. Parking is awful 2. They have no printed menu for customers. If you walk in knowing the menu, then you are in luck, but otherwise you have to wait in a long line just to get to the counter not knowing if they can provide you with what it is that you want. There are menus available at the front counter, but they are placed at the front of the line, and there is no indication to new costumers that they even exist. 3. There is always a line! I don't understand why they wouldn't make the process of ordering and paying easier for a customer. Waiting in line for several minutes, just to wait in line for my coffee to be prepared is ridiculous when it is a constant. Better staffing during peak times might be a good idea. 4. Credit card minimums. I have been told by a lawyer that these are ILLEGAL yet they have them. I assumed that this lawyer was telling me the truth, so I said to the barista one morning "you know those are illegal right?" and her response to me was just a simple yes. Apparently I was not the first person to say something... 5. The Vibe. I am not trying to get all new age hippie here, but the general feeling that I get when I walk into this location is that I am not enough. Not worth enough, not familiar enough, not hip enough, etc. I can't put my finger on it, and I know that they service a rock solid following of regular customers, and I am an outsider in that establishment, but I am a paying customer and really shouldn't be made to feel like an outsider. 6. Pricing. This is excessive at both locations, but at the downtown one I am willing to bite the price of a $5.00 Red eye because I really do like the ambiance there. At Oakland, not so much. Don't ever go there hungry unless you have some cash too, because the food is priced higher than the coffee. They do have some really good stuff to eat and drink, I just don't think that it is worth the price. All that being said, I will probably return to the downtown location at some point. I will never go back to the Oakland store for any reason. The bad feeling, the overly high prices, and the inconvenience to the customer are not worth the aggravation...
(1)Mark R.
Small... quaint... excellent cappacino from a coffe snob. Desserts excellent.
(5)Colleen D.
I absolutely love to frequent local coffee places, and this place is quaint and awesome. The ambiance is cozy, even though I am usually flying in and out. I will have to go there on a morning when I can sit and drink my beverage in leisure. I will sometimes pop in to grab something for lunch and I have fallen in love with their pulled-pork rolls. Their scones are pretty darn good too. I have yet to try all of their tempting desserts, but they do look amazing. The parking can be a little dicey at times, but not nearly as bad as their Water Street location (in my opinion). Much better than the chain-feel of Starbucks or Biggby's.
(4)Stephanie B.
One of my favorite spots in Kalamazoo. Good place to do work, grab a quick bite, or have a delcious cup of cofee. Free Wifi. Atmosphere is cliche artsy coffee shop - which I love! Waterstreet is one of the first things that comes to my mind when I think of Kalamazoo. Both locations are great.
(5)Chris T.
Yes it's a little pricey but I love the coffee and the environment is always nice. It's a great place to get some work done.
(5)Bee S.
Water Street on Oakland used to be one of my regular places to go. To go with friends, to take new friends, to get a quick coffee with my parents, or to even sit alone and relax. There are basically three places to sit here: outside patio, inside back room, or inside main room. The back room is nice if you are studying, reading, or on a laptop. The main area is nice to just sit and chat with friends and look at the cool artwork from local artists on the walls. The patio is awesome at night because of the cute lights outside, or even during the day if you want to bring your dog, they let them sit outside with you. Honestly, this place is so versatile and has everything you would want. - Good local food for lunch? check - Coffee (house brewed and espresso drinks?) check - Gelato? check - Humongous desserts? check - Wi-fi? check - Smoothies? Local artwork? Outdoor seating? check check check!! It is a little pricey, but granted it is supporting the local community and isn't a chain, I kind of expect that. I love the chicken pesto panini for lunch and the warm nut bar a la mode for dessert. Parking is sometimes tight since their own parking lot can fit maybe 8 cars, but it's practically a part of Oakwood Plaza, so you can park by PNC bank and walk over, it's all of 10 feet.
(5)Sunil S.
For all the newbies who are relocating to Kalamazoo, Water Street should be on your list of places to go if you are looking for an independent coffee store in town. I'm reviewing the location on Oakland Dr, which is situated off the main WMU campus. The downside is that there's not much parking and it often fills up due to popularity. However, there is a large adjacent lot that you can park at behind the bank, which I think the people there don't have a problem with you parking there. The coffee store has a very nice outdoor patio area that you can sit down and drink coffee. The view of Oakland Dr. and the Rich gas station aren't the most picturesque views, but it is still nice nonetheless and not too close to the roads where your privacy is compromised. Inside, there is ample seating and outlets, for those of you who want to camp with your laptops and get a whole days of studying in. There are plenty of outlets for you to plug your computer in and you also got free wi-fi. There's also a back room area with some really plush, comfy chairs and couches. As far as the selection, there's a decent selection of deli sandwiches and pastries, not terribly expensive but a little more pricier compared to maybe other places in Kalamazoo (It's given a $$ rating, but I find the pricing to be on level with similar independent coffee stores in large markets). Obviously, there is ample selection of cafe and java, as well as French and Italian sodas that you won't find elsewhere in Kalamazoo. There is a good cross-section of people who frequent Water Street, predominantly undergrads but in the brief time I've been there, I've also seen medical professionals (such as myself), and others who are studying for professional school of some sort. There's another location downtown, but it's been awhile since I've been there and parking can be a similar issue. With the summer hours open until 11, this is as good a choice as you'll find, especially since Video Hits Plus on campus I believe is no longer 24 hours like it used to be....
(4)RJ S.
Water Street Coffee Joint is a gem in Kalamazoo and one of the best independent coffee shops in the USA. Your tastebuds will be pleased. The coffee is absolutely flavorful. The selection of teas are excellent and amazing. The delectable desserts and foods are mouthwatering and made with quality ingredients that are sourced locally. The staff is always very friendly. The interior is cozy and has a warm vibe. They have fantastic outdoor seating for warmer days with tables, couches and umbrellas. Great place to relax, talk, study, or work. The back room features comfy leather couches. If the parking lot is full, many patrons park by PNC bank near the cafe. This place is a pleasure to experience. Well worth a diversion from I-94. Water Street Coffee Joint is a true Kalamazoo attraction.
(5)Emily O.
I love coming here for coffee. My favorite is the Mocha Del. Sol I come here a few times a week to study or prepare myself to study. I personally think their best location is the downtown one. Im not a big fan of their food but when I do order food here I get their chicken pesto sandwhich with a pickle! *Note if you do get this have them heat it up! The atmosphere is cute and quirky, however space and parking is limited so figure out their schedule!
(4)Zach G.
WSCJ is my go to place in Kalamazoo when I need to do work or relax with a cup of coffee. The Oakland location is ideal for doing homework or sitting on your laptop. There is plenty of space and seating. The staff is fantastic and friendly. The drinks are great, and so is the food.
(5)Ken H.
I'm lucky I don't live closer to Water Street Coffee Joint. I would be here all the time! The atmosphere is great at both locations, but the Oakland Drive location has much more space and more comfortable seating options. My go-to drinks are the Mocha Del Sol (a little spicy) and the Tahitian Vanilla Milkshake with a shot of espresso. Try a dessert. You won't be disappointed. I love the Chocolate Walnut Oat Bars. Water Street sells coffee and tea paraphernalia and art from local artists.
(4)Terese B.
Everything here is delish-love the coffee, the local artwork, the friendly staff, the tasty desserts and unique foods, but just have to give a quick shout out to the Tahitian Vanilla Espresso Shake. It can make a gray day shine. Woo-hoo!
(4)Karen K.
Great place to study or chat with a friend. Coffee is decent, very appealing to the eyes.
(4)Brad T.
I love the vibe of this place and the staff is really nice. While I'm not a coffee expert there coffee is pretty good, and I love that they roast and sell there beans here. Parking is tight but is better than other places like this that I've been to.
(4)Kyle R.
My in-laws moved to Kalamazoo a few years ago and immediately fell in love with Waterstreet; I kept hearing about it, and was excited to try it. It is now my favorite coffee shop by a long shot. The coffees are deliciously roasted, and they are obviously good quality (even though I have no real authority or knowledge to speak to this, I'm just going by taste). They have a GREAT selection of loose leaf teas as well, which helps them stand apart from most all other coffee roasters I have encountered. They sell both their coffees and their teas by the bag as well, so we can enjoy them at home. And the bags that the coffee is packaged in just look cool. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and the decor is very artistic, which make for a unique experience when staying in the shop. Overall, I really love Waterstreet, and would much rather give them my business than a larger chain such as Biggby or Starbucks, etc. My one disappointment is that they are ONLY in Kalamazoo... Now that I've moved to the East side of the state, I need my Waterstreet fix!!
(5)Joyce Y.
I love their tea and drink selections! There are standard and really unique options. While I only sampled the chai shake with Tahitian vanilla, it was very delicious. The unique flavor combinations are great and I would visit again!
(3)Dee B.
Love: - the coffee - the space - the friendly staff Dislike: - tiny parking lot - lack of menu - drink sizes are certainly smaller than what the average American has gotten used to thanks to other coffee shops.
(4)Paul W.
I usually stop when I'm in Kalamazoo visiting family. No complaints about the coffee, but the cooler of salads, sandwiches, and other lunch/dinner goodies may be the best reason to visit Very interesting and unconventional choices in the form of curries, stews, salads and sandwiches (really, buns baked around veggies, cheese, or meat) that will please the vegan and carnivore alike. Brought my dad here for lunch a couple times, and even though his tastes run along pretty conventional lines, he's liked it. Pastry selection is surprisingly limited, and parking can be atrociously difficult (fifteen spots, at most?). Yet I keep coming back, parking the next lot over and walking if need be. I live in a town with some great coffeeshops, but when I come here I find myself wishing this was one of them.
(4)Diane V.
This is for the new Center Street location in Portage I have spend many years at Oakland and Water Street and they get 5 stars also. Center Street is sleek, bright and open. It has a sun room with tall windows with a fireplace. It has a loft that is also very bright, and a lower level that is also open and bright. Service is friendly like the other Water Street locations. I love the almond milk lattes, I think they are one of the best in the area. Tables are so far easier to get than the one on Water Street. Also parking is more abundant than the other locations. You can also get slow drip coffee here for a little more money. It is fresher and stronger flavor. Very very good. They have the same food, that is always good and fresh. Wish they had some gluten free muffins or pastries. There are enough options for lunch though. I highly recommend spending a snowy morning sipping coffee with a friend while somebody is shoveling your driveway. Also great for a summer day.
(5)Hannah P.
I just really love the atmosphere!
(4)Stefanie N.
I'm a fan of the original location so it would be hard pressed to not love their Oakland location as well. It's a lot more spacious, comfortable, and like their sister location...has the same great expansive food and drink menu in a pleasant atmosphere. Love this location!
(5)Peter M.
Always amazing! Get the white mocha, you will be stoked. Lots of cool art up on the walls. I dig it.
(5)Dave S.
One of my fav coffe shops overall (of all coffee shops I visit or have visited). I live in and work as a Sr. Software Engineer in Chicago and drink Intelligensia coffee which for example, is one of the best coffee shops in the midwest (I don't say that lightly or carelessly...try it for yourself) located in downtown Chicago. So I am very into good coffee (i.e. Illy Brand). Also, I have a super automatic espresso machine sitting in my kitchen, etc so you know I drink a lot of good coffee :). This place simply rocks. The coffee is not your typical Starcraps/Crackbucks disgustingly overburnt low quality overwatered coffee...it's real good coffee...the way it should be. No idea why anyone would pay Starsucks those high prices when you have a good coffee shop like this in town with also a very nice and good sized atmosphere to sit down and relax or work. I am a remote worker (over vpn for a very large tech company), so glad I have this place to setup at for the day and can work over their wi-fi. Typically the wi-fi when I've had to work at Crackbucks is horrible, less than 100kb per second...because too many people jump on their lousy high speed connections. However here their network has decent bandwidth so it's all good with speed when you need to work over the net. Can't get any better than this in KZoo people. Pros: 1) High quality coffee and ingredients (whipped cream is very good, cinnamon, honey, chocolate chips you can freely take upon yourself to sprinkle on top of mochas, good quality nutmeg to sprinkle over mochas - a must). 2) The food outside of just the coffee. They have a lot of good breakfast and lunch food here and it's all very good. There's also a gelato section with some decent Gelato...probably about 10 kinds or so. So plan on being able to eat lunch here too if you're sitting all day for work. 3) The atmosphere is kick ass. It's big and relaxing and hip here. High quality leather chairs and leather couches in the back to chill on, formal tables and chairs as well everywhere to start working on whatever you may have to get done. Cons: 1) As always parking is hard to come by so be prepared to wait on the street or in their super small parking lot until someone comes out and leaves. You never have to wait long though...as there's a constant flow of people in and out every minute. So you'll be able to park usually within 5 minutes or less. Just gotta be patient. 2) Their cup sizes are misleading or could I say not really fair. Their XL really is a large at most shops. Then trickle down, their small is REALLY small. That's my only complaint. Not particularly something that makes me happy....but again this is GOOD coffee so what the hell, I will give in. 3) It can be loud in the lounge areas....because again a lot of people come here for the same Pros I've stated above. So if you're going to come here to do business or need to do some phone calls for work or whatever, it may be loud so be aware of that. There are college students galore in here which explains why. I've uploaded some pictures finally above to this yelp page...it's a shame nobody has yet. So check them out. Note, their pricing is Moderate-to-Pricey...somewhere in between. Finally, I will state that I am in no way affiliated...just your typical customer, so you can take my review as honest without any outside influence.
(5)Gregory M.
Starbucks?! Bah, the best coffee house in Kalamazoo, bar none. Great casual atmosphere, everything from traditional tables to sofas to exterior seating.
(5)Amanda R.
I wish it wasn't always so busy or they knock out a wall and make more seating when I go it's usually one or two seats left if were lucky. Hubby and I like to go here when were in Town. The food and coffee are great.
(5)Leigh W.
Their coffee is very well done. I have had their coffee at restaurants around the state and their brewing system and beans are great. I was a bit disappointed during my visit to "the mother ship" - was really excited to experience the source but the vibe was a bit cold, maybe it was just an off day.
(5)Lea S.
I'm moving to the kzoo area soon, so of course one if my concerns is where to get great coffee in my new town. I've been to this location of Water Street a few times now, and I'm thoroughly impressed. The staff is super nice, coffee choices are excellent and I drool over the tasty treats. I haven't tried the bottled iced coffee yet, but will on my next trip. The house made granola bars are fab - made with crystallized ginger!
(5)Stephanie B.
One of my favorite spots in Kalamazoo. Good place to do work, grab a quick bite, or have a delcious cup of cofee. Free Wifi. Atmosphere is cliche artsy coffee shop - which I love! Waterstreet is one of the first things that comes to my mind when I think of Kalamazoo. Both locations are great.
(5)Chris T.
Yes it's a little pricey but I love the coffee and the environment is always nice. It's a great place to get some work done.
(5)Bee S.
Water Street on Oakland used to be one of my regular places to go. To go with friends, to take new friends, to get a quick coffee with my parents, or to even sit alone and relax. There are basically three places to sit here: outside patio, inside back room, or inside main room. The back room is nice if you are studying, reading, or on a laptop. The main area is nice to just sit and chat with friends and look at the cool artwork from local artists on the walls. The patio is awesome at night because of the cute lights outside, or even during the day if you want to bring your dog, they let them sit outside with you. Honestly, this place is so versatile and has everything you would want. - Good local food for lunch? check - Coffee (house brewed and espresso drinks?) check - Gelato? check - Humongous desserts? check - Wi-fi? check - Smoothies? Local artwork? Outdoor seating? check check check!! It is a little pricey, but granted it is supporting the local community and isn't a chain, I kind of expect that. I love the chicken pesto panini for lunch and the warm nut bar a la mode for dessert. Parking is sometimes tight since their own parking lot can fit maybe 8 cars, but it's practically a part of Oakwood Plaza, so you can park by PNC bank and walk over, it's all of 10 feet.
(5)Sunil S.
For all the newbies who are relocating to Kalamazoo, Water Street should be on your list of places to go if you are looking for an independent coffee store in town. I'm reviewing the location on Oakland Dr, which is situated off the main WMU campus. The downside is that there's not much parking and it often fills up due to popularity. However, there is a large adjacent lot that you can park at behind the bank, which I think the people there don't have a problem with you parking there. The coffee store has a very nice outdoor patio area that you can sit down and drink coffee. The view of Oakland Dr. and the Rich gas station aren't the most picturesque views, but it is still nice nonetheless and not too close to the roads where your privacy is compromised. Inside, there is ample seating and outlets, for those of you who want to camp with your laptops and get a whole days of studying in. There are plenty of outlets for you to plug your computer in and you also got free wi-fi. There's also a back room area with some really plush, comfy chairs and couches. As far as the selection, there's a decent selection of deli sandwiches and pastries, not terribly expensive but a little more pricier compared to maybe other places in Kalamazoo (It's given a $$ rating, but I find the pricing to be on level with similar independent coffee stores in large markets). Obviously, there is ample selection of cafe and java, as well as French and Italian sodas that you won't find elsewhere in Kalamazoo. There is a good cross-section of people who frequent Water Street, predominantly undergrads but in the brief time I've been there, I've also seen medical professionals (such as myself), and others who are studying for professional school of some sort. There's another location downtown, but it's been awhile since I've been there and parking can be a similar issue. With the summer hours open until 11, this is as good a choice as you'll find, especially since Video Hits Plus on campus I believe is no longer 24 hours like it used to be....
(4)RJ S.
Water Street Coffee Joint is a gem in Kalamazoo and one of the best independent coffee shops in the USA. Your tastebuds will be pleased. The coffee is absolutely flavorful. The selection of teas are excellent and amazing. The delectable desserts and foods are mouthwatering and made with quality ingredients that are sourced locally. The staff is always very friendly. The interior is cozy and has a warm vibe. They have fantastic outdoor seating for warmer days with tables, couches and umbrellas. Great place to relax, talk, study, or work. The back room features comfy leather couches. If the parking lot is full, many patrons park by PNC bank near the cafe. This place is a pleasure to experience. Well worth a diversion from I-94. Water Street Coffee Joint is a true Kalamazoo attraction.
(5)