Cafe Rhema

Transport yourself to the atmosphere of the "Roaring Twenties" right in the heart of Flint. Café Rhema is a unique gastronomic space in the USA, designed in a Victorian style with elements of "The Great Gatsby" aesthetic. Here, antique furniture sits alongside crystal chandeliers, while portraits of the city's founders look down from the walls, creating a unique sense of time travel to the sounds of classic jazz.

This establishment is rightfully considered a benchmark of third-wave coffee culture. The focus here is on the art of roasting beans and close cooperation with local Michigan artisans. In addition to professionally prepared classic espresso and lattes, the menu delights with variety: from French press to original Italian sodas and popular bubble tea with tapioca.

Café Rhema's kitchen offers equally interesting options. You can order signature artisan sandwiches, crispy flatbreads (such as pesto or Thai-style), and fresh salads. The waffles are particularly popular—both sweet and savory, served all day, turning a simple breakfast into a small celebration of taste.

As a completely alcohol-free and family-friendly establishment, the café has become a favorite spot for students, professionals, and tourists. It is a safe and friendly space where you can work productively on a laptop or spend a soulful evening with loved ones, enjoying the quiet and quality service.

For your convenience, we have gathered up-to-date contact information for Café Rhema so you can easily find this downtown spot or contact the staff for details.

At Café Rhema, everyone will find something to their liking: from quiet seclusion with a book to participating in lively themed parties. Be sure to try the signature waffles with coffee on a Saturday morning—it's a local tradition that many combine with a subsequent trip to the nearby market. The interior is so detailed that simply contemplating the antique decor and historical photographs turns into a fascinating tour of Flint's past.

Culture lovers will appreciate the regular live performances by local artists. The venue hosts concerts in various genres, karaoke battles, and trivia nights with prizes. For those seeking spiritual peace, "Unashamed" sessions for reflection and prayer are held on Wednesdays, and a special prayer box in the hall receives hundreds of anonymous requests weekly.

If you're looking for a place for a special occasion, the back room is often rented for weddings, marriage proposals, or business meetings. Staff dressed in 1920s style and a carefully curated playlist from that era create a full immersion into the period, making any lunch or celebration a memorable event.

Finding the establishment is easy: Café Rhema is located in the heart of the city at 432 S Saginaw St. It is in close proximity to the Flint Farmers’ Market and the University of Michigan-Flint campus, making it a popular stop during walks through downtown.

If you're traveling by car, please note that parking is available in the back alley of the building. This is especially convenient during roadwork on the main streets, as the rear entrance always remains open to visitors. For those who prefer public transport, buses and taxis running through the city center stop regularly on Saginaw Street.

Thanks to recent street upgrades, the café's pedestrian accessibility has significantly improved. A walk from major downtown cultural sites to the café doors takes only a few minutes, allowing you to combine a coffee visit with sightseeing or shopping.

The history of this place began in 2005 when Brown Sugar Café, founded by a former auto industry worker, opened on the site of the current establishment. A new chapter in the coffee shop's life opened in 2013: Joshua Spencer, owner of a marketing agency, purchased the business. Inspired by the coffee cultures of Austin, Chicago, and Seattle, he decided to turn an ordinary café into something exceptional.

After rebranding, the establishment was named Café Rhema and given a unique 1920s concept. Spencer aimed to create a high-end space that would contribute to the revitalization of the downtown area. The interior features antique finds from local centers, such as chandeliers from the Carriage Town Antique Center, highlighting the connection between the establishment and Flint's history and culture.

Over the years, the café has become more than just an eatery; it is a true cultural hub and a stronghold for independent business. It has successfully navigated a decade of development, constantly updating the menu and introducing "third-wave" coffee from Michigan's best roasters. Today, it is one of the most respected establishments in the state, combining the owner's Christian values with a welcoming atmosphere for people of all ages and beliefs.

For a standard visit, including a cup of signature coffee and a light snack, 1–2 hours will be quite enough. This time is sufficient to enjoy the "Great Gatsby"-style interior and relax to the sounds of 1920s jazz.

If you plan to attend one of the evening events, such as a live concert or trivia night, you should budget 2–3 hours. Many visitors also prefer to stay longer, using the cozy atmosphere of the back room for quiet work or reading.

Café Rhema welcomes guests throughout the week, although the schedule varies slightly between weekdays and weekends. Monday–Friday: 07:45–17:00; Saturday: 09:00–17:00; Sunday: 09:30–17:00.

Please note that operating hours may change depending on holidays or private events. We recommend checking the official website or calling the establishment before your visit for the latest information.

A visit to Café Rhema can easily be turned into a full tour of the historic center, as many iconic sites are within walking distance. Exploring these places will allow you to better experience the city's industrial and cultural heritage.