PC: Beans Coffee Company

Your Mankato Fall Food & Drink Guide

As the leaves turn fiery hues and a crisp coolness fills the air, there’s one flavor that reigns supreme: pumpkin spice! And if you’re looking to embrace all things autumnal and delicious, Mankato, Minnesota, is your perfect fall getaway. From cozy cafes to charming local shops, Mankato offers a delightful pumpkin spice experience that will warm you from the inside out.

Let’s brew up some fun and explore the best spots to get your pumpkin spice fix in Mankato!

PC: Fillin’ Station Coffeehouse

Cafes & Coffee Shops: A Symphony of Spice

Mankato boasts a diverse coffee scene, and when fall arrives, these locally owned hot spots transform into pumpkin spice havens.

• Beans Coffee Company: Just across the river in beautiful Lower North Mankato, Beans Coffee Company is a local hot spot serving up fall flavors galore. Their seasonal pumpkin chai cold brew is a must-try – rich, perfectly spiced, and served with a smile. It’s the ideal spot to relax with a book or catch up with friends.
• River Rock Coffee & Tea: With locations in both Downtown Mankato and our neighbor, St. Peter, River Rock Coffee & Tea is a perfect to grab on your way to town, or even to grab one to go and enjoy a stroll along the Minnesota River. Their harvest spice latte is the perfect drink to warm up on crisp fall mornings.
• Fillin’ Station Coffeehouse: This charming coffeehouse offers a cozy ambiance and a delicious array of fall-themed beverages. Their fall themed monthly coffee flights are a popular choice, offering flavors of fall from pumpkin to toffee, and everything in between.

Wooden Spoon

Bakeries & Sweet Treats: Pumpkin Perfection

What’s pumpkin spice season without a delectable baked good (or two)? Mankato’s bakeries are ready to satisfy your sweet tooth.

• Wooden Spoon: Situated in Mankato’s Old Town, this catering service and bakery features many pastries, bread, and sweets, including many gluten free and vegan options. It’s a great place to discover unique, homemade treats. Keep an eye on their shelves for seasonal treats that everyone can enjoy!
• Cottage Bakers: With a little heads up, cottage bakers are an excellent choice to get your hands on homemade seasonal treats of all sorts. Reach out to bakeries such as Shy’s Vegan Goodies, Sota Cakes, and 2 Pins Bakery to order your seasonal treats.
• Grocery Store Bakeries: Don’t underestimate the power of a grocery store bakery! Both Hy-Vee and Cub Foods in Mankato often have a fantastic selection of pumpkin spice donuts, pies, and other pastries during the fall season. Perfect for a quick treat or to bring to a gathering.

LocAle Brewing Co.

Beyond the Brew: Other Pumpkin Spice Delights

Pumpkin spice isn’t just for coffee and desserts! Keep your eyes peeled for these other seasonal treats.

• Local Breweries and Wineries: Mankato has a growing craft beer and beverage scene, and many area breweries and wineries get into the fall spirit with seasonal brews. You might just find a pumpkin spice liqueur or seasonal ale that incorporates those warm, familiar spices. Check out places like LocAle Brewing Co. or Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery & Distillery for their fall releases.
• Farmers Markets: As the season progresses, Greater Mankato’s farmers markets can be a treasure trove. Look for local vendors selling pumpkins of all sizes, pumpkin spice-flavored jams, candles, or even handmade soaps. It’s a great way to take a piece of Mankato’s fall charm home with you!

Embrace the Autumn Vibe!

While you’re on your pumpkin spice quest, take some time to enjoy Mankato’s beautiful fall scenery. Drive through the scenic river valley, visit Minneopa State Park to see the bison and waterfalls, or simply enjoy a walk through one of the city’s many parks. The vibrant fall foliage provides the perfect backdrop for your spiced adventures.

So, pack your coziest sweater, gather your friends, and come experience the delightful world of pumpkin spice in Mankato, MN. Your taste buds (and your Instagram feed) will thank you!