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- ginasway75
- Oct 31
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 4
The Bitter End Coffeehouse: Grand Rapids 24/7 Black-Owned Coffee Gem
Y'all, when I tell you I found THE coffee spot in Grand Rapids, I mean it! The Bitter End Coffeehouse is everything you want in a local coffee shop and more. This Black-owned gem is open 24/7 in a gorgeous historic building, and honestly, my latte was pure perfection.
🎥 See It For Yourself!
Watch my full TikTok review below! I'm taking you inside this amazing coffee shop so you can see exactly why I'm obsessed.
My Honest Review
Okay, so I'd been hearing about The Bitter End for months, and as someone who's always hunting for the perfect coffee spot, I HAD to check it out. Walking up to this place on Fulton Street, I immediately fell in love. It's housed in a 120-year-old bank building, and you can just feel the history radiating from those walls.
The moment I stepped inside, I was transported to some European coffeehouse from the 1920s. We're talking high tin ceilings, gorgeous porcelain tile floors, and dark oak woodwork that just screams character. It's like stepping into a time machine, but in the best way possible.
Now, here's what really got me excited: this is a Black-owned business that's been handcrafting espresso beverages since 2000, and they roast their own Fair Trade and organic beans right here. Plus, they're open 24/7! Like, who does that anymore? It's amazing for us night owls or early birds who need that coffee fix at any hour.
The barista was absolutely incredible, so patient and friendly when I was asking about all their non-dairy options. Speaking of which, they have EVERYTHING for us dairy-free folks, over 80 syrup flavors, and the customization options are basically endless. I got my latte with oat milk, and I'm not even exaggerating when I say it was a perfect 10/10. The coffee was rich, smooth, and you could taste the quality in every sip.
What I Ordered
My Order: Salted Carmel Latte with oat milk
My Rating: 10/10 (seriously, perfection)
Why I Loved It: Perfectly balanced, rich flavor from their craft-roasted beans, and the oat milk was steamed to creamy perfection. You can taste the quality in every sip!
The Vibe
This place is pure magic, honestly. The atmosphere is warm, dark, and comfortable in that cozy European way. It's the kind of place where you could spend hours reading, catching up with friends, or just watching the world go by. The vintage aesthetic is authentic, not forced, because you're literally sitting in a piece of Grand Rapids history.
It's an unhurried space where everyone feels welcome. Whether you're a university student cramming for exams, a professional having a meeting, or someone like me just exploring local gems, you'll fit right in. The energy is relaxed but inspired, if that makes sense.
Why You Need to Go
Black-owned business that's been serving the community since 2000
Open 24/7 because coffee emergencies don't follow business hours
Historic charm in a beautifully restored 120-year-old bank building
Craft coffee roasting with Fair Trade and organic beans
80+ syrup flavors and multiple non-dairy milk options
European coffeehouse vibes that transport you to another era
Incredible baristas who genuinely care about your coffee experience
Perfect for any time of day or night
Visit The Bitter End Coffeehouse
Address: 752 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Phone: (616) 451-6061
Hours: Open 24/7 (yes, really!)
Website: thebitterendcoffeehouse.com
Parking: City lot across the street
Bottom line: The Bitter End Coffeehouse isn't just another coffee shop, it's an experience. From supporting a local Black-owned business to sipping perfectly crafted coffee in a space that feels like stepping back in time, this place has everything. Whether you're stopping by at 9 AM or 2 AM, you're going to fall in love with this Grand Rapids gem just like I did.
Have you been to The Bitter End? What's your favorite local coffee spot? Let me know in the comments, and follow me for more real, unsponsored reviews of West Michigan's best local businesses!
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