Yes, fans of Starbucks, Caribou and Dunn Bros., your caffeinators maintain Duluth outposts. But the chains can’t touch the lattés, cappuccinos, espressos and brewed-to-order cups made at the quality-obsessed Duluth Coffee Co. Every step of the process is scrutinized by owner Eric Faust, from his relationships with small coffee producers to his skill at the roaster. The stylish downtown storefront is warm and inviting — the turntable and record collection are nice touches — and the neighboring How Sweet It Is bakery keeps the place stocked with croissants, pain au chocolat and other pastries. Pick up one of the shop’s coffee-infused chocolate bars for the road.
