Café Rica USA

In the heart of Battle Creek, in the USA, is a place where a cup of coffee marks the start of a strong friendship. Cafe Rica is a cozy, family-owned establishment that brings the spirit of Costa Rica to the streets of Michigan. They believe the secret to a perfect morning lies in the combination of high-quality specialty coffee beans and genuine hospitality.

Founded by the Bredehoft family, the cafe embodies the "Pura Vida" philosophy—the art of finding joy in every aspect of life. The establishment's motto, "Strong Coffee, Stronger Relationships," reflects its primary goal: to create a space where every guest feels like part of a large family. Its stylish interior and warm atmosphere make it a popular meeting spot downtown.

The cafe takes pride in its approach, from fair wages for employees to supporting local producers. Thanks to the exceptional quality of its drinks and food, it is deservingly considered one of the city's top gastronomic spots, attracting both locals and tourists.

To check the menu or book a table, you can contact the staff directly. We also recommend visiting their official website for seasonal novelties and special offers.

The main reason to visit Cafe Rica is to taste their famous cold brew. This long-steeped cold coffee is rightfully considered one of the best in the region. To complement your drink, be sure to try the signature quesadillas, which became a staple on the menu after numerous requests from regular customers.

Beyond the culinary delights, you can spend time browsing products from local micro-businesses that the cafe actively supports. It is a great place for quiet work, reading a book, or having a heartfelt conversation in a setting that feels like a cozy living room. Visitors often note that this is where you can feel the true pulse of Battle Creek while remaining in an atmosphere of Costa Rican tranquility.

Finding Cafe Rica is easy, as it is located in the heart of the city's business district at 62 E Michigan Ave. If you are already downtown, the cafe is within easy walking distance of most key locations. For those traveling by car, there are convenient parking zones in the city center just steps from the entrance.

Travelers arriving from other regions can use taxis or rental cars. The drive from Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport takes about 30 minutes. The city is also conveniently located near Interstate I-94, making the cafe an excellent pit stop during a road trip through Michigan.

The history of this place began in 2016 when brothers Tristan and Jackson Bredehoft launched online sales of Costa Rican coffee. Their inspiration came from their parents' long-time love for the Café Naranjo variety, which they discovered during a trip more than thirty years ago. Over time, the family passion grew into a full-scale business that prioritizes quality and human relationships.

Interestingly, the cafe's first physical home in 2018 was a simple shipping container. This period allowed the owners to build a connection with their first customers and create the very homey atmosphere that persists today. Later, the project developed in a local business incubator, where bagels and homemade pastries were added to the coffee menu at the request of visitors.

Moving to a permanent building in the heart of Battle Creek allowed the concept to take its final shape. The owners used the pandemic period to carefully refine the menu, focusing on their signature quesadillas. Today, Cafe Rica is more than just an eatery; it's a true hub for local micro-businesses whose products are often featured in the interior.

For a full visit to Cafe Rica, it is worth setting aside 1 to 2 hours. This time is enough to not only enjoy a cup of aromatic coffee and try the signature dishes but also to soak in the unique "Pura Vida" atmosphere that the owners are so proud of.

If you are short on time, you can grab a coffee to go—this takes no more than 15 minutes. However, the cozy interior and friendly environment invite you to stay longer, chat with the staff, or simply watch downtown life through the large windows.

Cafe Rica welcomes guests daily, offering invigorating coffee both early in the morning and throughout the day. On weekdays (Monday–Friday), the doors are open from 06:30 AM to 04:30 PM. On Saturday and Sunday, the establishment operates on a shortened schedule from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM.

Before visiting on holidays, it is recommended to check the current operating status on the official website, as the schedule may change slightly.

The convenient location of Cafe Rica in the city center allows you to combine a pleasant coffee break with exploring interesting spots. A stroll around the neighborhood will enrich your travel experience and introduce you to the region's historical heritage.

Within walking distance, you will find both monumental sculptures and cozy urban spaces for the whole family to relax.