I really like Nokomis Beach. The owners are very nice and have a friendly rapport with almost everyone who comes in. Half the time I'm there I feel like I'm in a diner scene in an old movie or something because every other person who comes in is a regular. Mostly young kids work there, but it's a good thing becaue it infuses the place with a little youth culture since most of the regulars are older people with children who live near the lake. Coffee isn't as good as Starbucks, but they make up for it with their espresso drinks, iced tea, and cold press coffee, and I'd rather support something local. $1.61 for a BIG scoop of good ice cream is a rarity in South Minneapolis, and therefore a hidden gem.
Pros: affordable prices, wonderful service, family atmosphere, lots of regulars
Cons: coffee allright
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