A hidden gem, Mike and Kat’s Other Place, offers exceptionally tasting coffee paired with a strong community spirit. The shop is more than a cafe, but rather a must-try neighborhood staple.
Mike and Kat’s Other Place sits on the corner of 4th Street in downtown Stillwater. Mike and Kat Duncan opened their doors in Feb. 2023, when they introduced a fresher coffee experience that emphasized house-roasted beans and homemade ingredients.
Mike and Kat’s is well-known for their commitment to quality, which they prioritize by roasting their own beans and making all ingredients in-house. This allows for intentionality and flair with the unique flavors they offer.
In Kat’s opinion, the shop stands out because it is the only coffee shop in Stillwater that roasts beans. She added that Mike’s syrups are made from scratch, further distinguishing their menu.
Having made it into a hobby to sample local coffee shops, I have developed a strong taste for well-prepared coffee and what makes a shop worth returning to. The most valuable qualities to look for aside from the coffee itself is the atmosphere. Everything from the interior design choices to the customer service plays a significant role in the experience, and Mike and Kat excelled in this.
“Our whole point of this space on North Hill was community and neighborhood, so I wanted people to walk into this coffee shop, and I wanted it to feel good,” Kat said.
Ultra-processed sugar-free syrups have become increasingly more popular, but consumers often do not realize the risks that accompany these lower-calorie substitutes. A Harvard Study found that artificial sweeteners were linked to a significantly heightened risk of cardiovascular problems and strokes.
“A lot of the sugar that others are using is chemical-based and food additives. And we don’t, we think that our impact is going to genuinely be a healthier product,” Mike said.
Overall, this authenticity is reflected in their artfully made beverages. I ordered the thin mint latte, which was delivered sweetly balanced and true to flavor, reminiscent of the cookie itself. Their drinks are truly set apart by their freshness. It was comforting and satisfying without feeling heavy, which is perfect for the colder winter months.
Freshman and customer Logan Guelig described the shop as “super welcoming.” She went on to say that in the future, she would love to see pastry options on their menu.
The next steps for Mike and Kat include wholesaling their coffee beans to restaurants and potentially their nitro cold brew to other cafes. They will also be selling this cold brew at the State Fair next summer, along with their organic strawberry and mint lemonades.
However, Kat was clear that they will never move away from what they are doing at a local level. “This is our heart,” she said.
For students looking for a dependable, local study spot with a naturally flavored drink, Mike and Kat’s is an easy recommendation. It is a wonderful way to support your community and invest in a business that prioritizes craftsmanship and connection.
