An Upper Eastside favorite only a couple blocks from the UW-Milwuakee campus, Roast did not disappoint. It’s hard to miss on the corner of Locust and Maryland. If you are an Eastside dweller it will easily become a go-to place. If you are coming from the suburbs, it’s a quick drive down Locust from I-43 towards the lake. We found parking to be a breeze on our Saturday afternoon visit.

With window seating in front and movable tables throughout, there’s no doubt you’ll find a good seat here for you and a friend. The shop has a welcoming blend of deep colors with a few pops of color, terrazzo floors, unique lighting features and wood features throughout. In addition, the main wood wall features a changing display of unique art.

Our barista today was Nikki, and they recommended some of their favorites. When we asked what drinks Roast excels at, they had quite a list. It’s always a good sign when a coffee shop has a knowledgeable and friendly staff, right? 

Roast serves Anodyne, and they’re known to be clean and consistent. You can always tell they take great care with their pulls when they dump the first one because the crema wasn’t up to par. They also serve Anodyne Nitro cold brew and a nice rotating JBC pour over selection. It would be cool to see them feature other roasters in the future.

Praline and Cream Nitro Cold Brew – This was described as “sweet and salty pralines, a signature of New Orleans, harmonizes with cold brew and oat milk”. This one came on recommendation by Nikki, and we loved this great twist on nitro cold brew. Drinks like a lighter, brighter version of a latte. 

Brown Sugar + Lavender Nitro cold brew – This was also really good. The cold brew shines through in this iced drink, with appropriate hints of lavender and brown sugar. The notes of the cold brew complemented the brown sugar well. 

Cafe Miel – This was a shot of espresso mixed with honey and topped with cinnamon-infused milk. Warm and spicy, this was well-balanced and sweet. The espresso shone through as a well-pulled shot should!

Mint Condition – This seasonal-tasting latte was solid. Adding mint to a drink is a delicate matter, and this was made with excellence.

Lavender + Mint Latte – The lavender and mint latte was delicious! This interesting flavor mix seemed out of the norm to us at first, but worked well. The mint with the sweetness of the lavender almost ended up having a white chocolate taste.

The bakery here is sourced locally from The City Market.

Cinnamon Roll- This was SO SO GOOD. Nikki told us it would be amazing. They were right! Every bite was better than the last. We got it warmed up which made it an incredibly gooey buttery cinnamon roll. Easily one of the best we’ve ever had.

Lemon Poppyseed Muffin – This lemony muffin was predictable but decent. While it’s not the best muffin in the world, it’s still a valid sidekick to a cup of Anodyne coffee.

GGOOLLDD – This bagel sandwich was loaded with flavor. This was described as “Toasted bagel with egg, bacon, cheddar cheese, tomatoes, green peppers, red onions with chipotle cream cheese”. What a unique combo!  We loved that it wasn’t something you’d find in every other cafe out there, and it was absolutely delicious. 

While this place may not be on your radar, it’s a great place for both the selective and carefree coffee drinkers. We insist that if you go, make sure you try the food.  And say hi to Nikki.

Roast Coffee Company
2132 E Locust St.
Milwaukee, WI 53211

https://www.roastcoffeecompany.com