Merrimans' Culture Café

401 E Colfax Ave Suite 137, Mishawaka, IN

★★★★★4.6(22 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

“Merrimans' Culture Café is a genuinely charming South Bend spot that doubles as a creative sanctuary, with espresso-focused coffee, thoughtful tea selections, and house-made pastries (including gluten-free options) that keep regulars coming back. The real magic is in the atmosphere—cozy nooks, local artwork, books scattered about, and a relaxed jazz vibe that makes it feel more like a friend's living room than a café, making it perfect for working, writing, or lingering over conversation. Fair warning: quality can be inconsistent (some rave about the coffee while others found it harsh), and prices trend toward the higher end, but the genuine warmth of owners Steven and Mary clearly resonates with their devoted community.”

What to expect

Light foodMeetingsTraditional drinksMatcha & teaLaptop friendlyPastriesWifiSlow sitEspresso focused

Google Reviews

Alan Hellawell

★★★★★7 months ago

Such an awesomely cozy, intellectually catalytic café! The barista was very welcoming. My hot cappuccino however tasted quite burnt and harsh. It was moreover quite expensive at $5. Would be great to have more subtle notes in the beans…maybe a light or medium roast?

Evy Behling

★★★★★10 months ago

This is hands down the best coffee shop in South Bend, particularly if you like to go somewhere to work and write. Comfy chairs, good coffee, good vibes. I hope they add more lunch food options but the homemade soups are always amazing!

Sarah McKibben

★★★★★11 months ago

Excellent coffee, lots of tea options, plus other soft drinks, baked goods including multiple GF options plus more substantial offerings. This place is FULL of charm, has comfy seats and lots of study nooks plus impeccable jazz on the stereo. Plenty of free parking. Super nice staff. A total winner. Stair access on W side with ramp on N side of building.

Ewan Robinson

★★★★★a year ago

The best place to relax, work, and drink coffee in South Bend! Cozy atmosphere, great coffee and house-made baked goods, friendly and relaxed staff. Lots of little nooks where you can have a conversation or get some work done. It's honestly everything I long for in a coffee shop. It's slightly hidden inside the Commerce Center, but 100% worth checking out.

Becky Turner

★★★★★a year ago

BEST COFFEE EVER!! Lovely cafe with a cool, comfy jazz vibe. Lots of wonderful artwork and books. Seriously, the coffee is awesome. And Steven and Mary are just the nicest, down-to-earth people you’ll ever meet.