The Outpost of Manistee

Absolutely The BEST coffee(s) in town, bar none. No wait, professional service. Perfect grind, filtered water, right temperatures, certified baristas. I like the cold brews.

On my leisurely trip up the coast of Lake Michigan, I stopped in the town of Manistee. After wandering around town I stepped into the Outpost for a caffeinated beverage.

The Outpost is a lifestyle clothing store with a full coffee bar as an added feature. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff is friendly and helpful.
They have a well-representative selection of locally roasted direct trade coffee and locally grown and blended organic tea. I appreciate the emphasis on local. So many towns deplete themselves by patronizing chains that send profits elsewhere. I'd drink bad local coffee before I'd drink chain coffee.

Fortunately, this was not the case at the Outpost. Laina was my barista. She was pleasant, but a little curious when I asked if she could make a good Americano. Even though the drink is simple, many seem to muck it up by over-diluting. I ordered a double Americano - she put two shots of espresso and filled the 12 oz. cup not quite full. She nailed it.

I admired the caramel crema that formed on the top - just as it should - and inhaled the rich aroma.

Customers were browsing the clothing selection, but I was ready to sit and ponder stuff while I sipped on this exquisite brew. There are several high-top tables in the front of the store, but I opted for the outdoor seating. I like to people watch as I ponder.

I always like to admire my coffee before I taste it - let the anticipation build. That first sip was exactly as I hoped it would be.

Friends, if you're in Manistee and want a delicious coffee or tea - and support a local business - stop by The Outpost. You won't be disappointed.

This store always has an amazing selection of quality clothing and happens to serve not only great fresh coffee but amazing espressos. Friendly staff is a plus. Wife and I moved up here from Chicago and could not be more pleases with the clothing which is always quality at reasonable pricing and just as important the excellent coffee.

Drank coffee there a few times a month and always satisfied with them. Today, I bought the thick fall north face jacket and it kept me warm! Great collection of high quality clothings.

We love stopping in The Outpost for the local smiles and delicious coffee. I personally love the iced latte made with cold brew! They also have a ton of high end outdoor gear for sale your next adventure!

First time trying out this spot for coffee and was not disappointed. The mint mocha was a perfect blend and I loved that it wasn't too sugary. The barista was very nice and informative.

Staff was kind and hard-working, but seemed like they could have communicated a bit more with each other. I ordered an Iced Latte with almond milk and light caramel, and the caramel part seemed to be missed when transferring my order between employees. That being said, the latte was still good, and the espresso taste was very smooth. Also wish they had more milk alternative options.

Did not do any clothes shopping, just some looking around. Clothing seemed nice, although pretty pricey, but what can you expect in a tourist town.

Nice selection in the clothing store. They had some sales going on when we went. The coffee there is good. We got an iced mocha and hot vanilla latte. I recommend trying their iced mocha! If you get their vanilla latte, consider asking for less pumps then what they put in. Two or three pumps is plenty. Also, the workers are super friendly and a joy to talk to!

Coffee was good, the coffee person messed up the order and also corrected us on how to say "caramel". But otherwise, good place and the only place to get coffee in town. I liked the outdoor seating.

My go-to cup of dirty chai every week. I couldn't imagine Manistee without this place!