Protagonist Cafe

Meredith Novak Warmuth

As a place to hang out and do some work or read a book, this place has all the ambiance. If I lived nearby, I would probably spend hours in this place but won’t go out of my way for it on a road trip. Unfortunately, the coffees were only so-so. They got better once we stirred them up, and it was pretty busy that day. The baristas were really nice and on top of getting our orders out.

R Cusick

I really can't rave enough about this place. I checked it out on a Friday afternoon, and it was quite busy, but the staff were keeping up with all the orders and were sincerely cheerful and helpful with everyone who came through the door. This is a coffeeshop--a really beautiful one--that also has books for folks to read as they enjoy their tea, coffee, or cocktails. They have baked goods, as well. I had the feta parmesan croissant, and I saw scones and cookies and heard mention of a cake. Probably the best example I've seen of following COVID precautions outside of Shameless Grounds (another favorite). Masks are required, of course, and they have masks for sale for $1. They ask that patrons wear their masks when they're away from their table, ordering, etc., and they provide disinfectant spray at busy common spaces (like the coffee table with a large checkers set) so you can leave it clean. They also have an accessible, gender-neutral bathroom with an option to use less water to flush less waste. I mean, that's the trifecta. 🙂 I enjoyed this coffeeshop so much and will absolutely be back. Grab a London Fog, nibble a scone or croissant, and read a book or just enjoy the free Wi-Fi!

Annie Oddo

What a cute place. As an out-of-town visitor who works in an independent coffee shop in another city, I love finding and supporting local spots when I travel. Atmosphere is spacious but still cozy, and the baristas are super nice and totally game to make suggestions. I enjoyed the Cubano-style latte very much!

Hope Loudon

It's rare to find a place that is so highly rated, but I can absolutely see why! I am visiting from out of town and kind of interviewing St. Louis to see about moving, and I can totally see myself hanging out at The Protagonist a lot if I move here. They had a lot of local free newspapers which I always appreciate for getting a sense of a city. Also, great coffee ($1 refills) and pastries, comfortable couches, wifi, books you can buy or borrow, and a lot of great stuff for sale (like alcohol to-go and humorous scrap-booked cards). I might be back Saturday for a breakfast burrito :) Card and artist pictured.