Avant Garden

I knew that there was a change in business in May 2023 but haven't been in to check things out until today. Avant Garden coffee house is now under "Metta in Avant Garden." Metta Coffe Cafe relocated from Andover. And the Avant Garden bookstore is now open on the 2nd floor. It has a seperate entrance from the sidewalk but is also accessible from the coffeehouse. I love the painted black staircase. Each riser of the staircase has a book genre stenciled in white font....fantasy, horror, romance, poetry, mystery, etc...Once upstairs, it's one giant room. Shelves along the perimeter and tables in the middle to highlight current bestsellers. Each genre has a small section, which is labeled clearly. The one employee there helped me order a mass market paperback book that I missed the released date on (and is no longer carried at Target/Walmart, and Amazon lost my package in shipping last week). I'd rather order from an independent seller vs. big box B&N. I can't wait to return in a week or two for pickup.

This place confused me at first on whether it was a combo book/coffee shop or not. You first walk into the coffee shop, and then upstairs is the bookshop. Both were very clean and tidy. The coffee shop: I asked for the barista at the register for her recommendation, and was shocked to learn she didn't even drink coffee, so I went with the one of the popular drinks, Wizard's Latte (a play on butter beer, I'm sure). I was hesitant since butterscotch can overpower anything, but it was just the right amount. I love all of the other beverage options they have, they're very unique and that's refreshing. The bookstoreNote: NOT wheelchair accessible. You go up a flight of stairs to a large, well-lit space. The bookseller was attentive and happy to make suggestions. Very good selection considering it's a one-room bookshop. All in all, a great place to grab a coffee and head up to pick up a new book. Parking: free on-street parkingAccessibility: while the coffee shop portion is accessible by wheelchair, the bookshop can only be accessed by stairs.

I love this little coffee shop. They have a rotating menu so there ate new speciality drinks every month or so. I love the unique and fun combinations that they have. Everytime I come here I am greeting with fast, friendly service which pairs well with whatever unique coffee combination I am trying this time!

One of my favorite and go to places when I am back in Anoka! I love the atmosphere and usually get an apple cider or hot chocolate. Now that they have made the move to a bookstore, I love it even more. Such a great space and awesome for the area since there aren't any local bookstores nearby!

This place is incredible. An amazing safe place for anyone to be accepted and just be. They have a gorgeous outdoor spot that truly feels like you're home in the backyard. The drinks are delicious and the baristas are amazing. And it has a bookstore upstairs. Couldn't possibly be any better.

Avant Garden is that unique gem of a bookstore and coffeeshop you've been looking for! It's been so much fun to see the space transform in the past few months! I do miss the booths and wish there was a bit more seating, BUT, I'll take books too. Staff are always welcoming and friendly. And the book selections are top-notch for this Romance reader. I'll come here for a few hours and work. Wifi is always good, no issues on my end when taking Zoom/Google Meet calls. My Top Three Picks Are:*Spanish Mocha: This was perfect on a snowy day! Not too sweet and tasted like holiday goodness. *Dirty Iced Chai: YUMMM - spices combined with espresso made for a perfect drink. *Assorted Pastries: These have always been good when I get them! Note, they do sell out quickly!

It's okay. I've had a couple good drinks and a couple really bad drinks, none of which I would go back just for. Plus they charge 1.50 extra for non- dairy milk in 2024? Cmon now.. the older lady that takes the orders always has an attitude with me, the past 3 times I've gone. Needless to say, I will not be back despite the amazing atmosphere and location and book store which are great.

Location: 5 starsView: 5 stars as you can watch people walking on both sides of the street. Live entertainment.Service: 5 starsDecoration: 5 starsChocolate mousse: 4.5 stars; I prefer my chocolate insomnia grade strongParking: 6 stars as Anoka make sure plenty of street parking and free covered garage 150 yards away + one open air garage close to bridge.

Oh. My gosh. This place is so awesome. I didn't get a picture but they have a special 12 drink menu for Christmas/holiday season so I HAD to order one. I grabbed the Gingerbread House Chai Latte and let me tell you-it was amazing. I would absolutely get it again. This is a super nice spot in Anoka and if you're looking for coffee or a nice drink it's the place to be. The drinks are around the price I would expect from a similar location and the staff were super chill and efficient. Bring a book, bring your laptop and just hang out.

Best Coffee shop in Anoka! The staff here is friendly, welcoming and warm! The upstairs bookstore is a great addition! We just live coming in to support this business!