The Back Alley

If I could live in this space, I would. It’s pure magic, it radiates joy, and the curation of the products is impressive. I feel like I’m spending time with close friends every time I step foot through the door. I could spend all day here (and sometimes I basically do).
The coffee is supreme, the pastries are on point, and the stack of vintage Levi’s can keep my attention for hours.
Come for the art, the boards, the gear, the coffee — whatever the reason, this is worth your time.
Worth noting: This is a surf community at its finest. Welcoming to all, a shared obsession with being in/on/near the water, and a genuine joy that you can feel in your soul. This is specific to Duluth, and Back Alley has played a huge role in shaping the surf culture here. Grateful to have them nearby and looking forward to many more moments in this space.

If you’re looking for the best coffee in Duluth, great music, and a space full of good people, look no further than The Back Alley.

Great coffee and ample surf supplies.

Gear I saw included surfboards, wax, wetsuits, leashes, and fins. Looks like they repair boards too.

Was in Duluth on a surf trip. Called the store and staff gave me lots of info about where to surf. Friendly and helpful. Thanks!!!!!

Please visit if you surf or like coffee. Vibe is welcoming

Thanks Back Alley for making my trip even better.

Ps - parking lot is gravel lot off the Main Street

Stop in for coffee and good vibes or a surf board. Cute shop with super friendly employees that know about more than just surfing. Spotted some vegan cookies at the register, grab something to go.

I love going to Back Alley. Good coffee. Good cappuccinos, tasty random special drinks. A lighter roast. Nice vibe. Not fast. Good surf and local merch. Best on a quiet day. It is more of a surf shop than a coffee shop, but the coffee is still good. Right next door to all the "new" cider and beer houses. A taco shop is coming next door. Limited
parking in the small lot, and there is ample street parking. Can and does get crowded. Great place, totally unique.

The coffee here is second to none in town. One of the best espresso pulls you can get. The vibe and atmosphere here is always light and easy going. The owner, Jerome, is friendly and helps everyone feel invited to talk and relax.

Lots of fun stickers, merch and coffee to enjoy while you hangout and listen to music and conversation.
This is a great Cafe to head to if you want to engage with others!

My favorite coffee shop. Love listening to surfing stories and browsing in the store - cool clothes, bags and surf gear. The vibe is very northern California. Jerry is the best and those lattes - so delish. Love supporting this small business.

Mesh of surf maintenance shop and equipment, a garage lounge and home decor, and some pretty solid espresso! ☕🌱🌿Modern, beach vibes. Very laid back yet curated. Makes you want to play vinyl and create something. Def worth a look…whenever they’re open~

11/10. Best espresso program in Duluth. Vibes and hospitality were excellent as well. Don’t miss this spot if you are a coffee lover

The atmosphere of the shop is awesome, products are great, and the people here are very knowledgeable. Most of the surfboards were fiberglass and higher-end, really sweet looking but out of a beginners price range, still though there are many other options for gear if you are starting out. If you are driving by here or in the area visiting, this is definitely a unique place to check out. Coffee, surfboards, and handmade goods - everything a perfect little shop could have.

The Back Alley will feel like home, even if Duluth isn't your hometown. Best Latte ever.

Duluth's premier surf shop. Surf gear, hand-made crafts and dynamite coffee all in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

We were happy to discover the Back Alley. Cute shop with a fun vibe! The barista made me the best mocha I have ever had! My daughter loved her latte. We enjoyed our coffee on the cute patio in the sunshine.

the guy who owns it (Gerold i think?) is mad chill ! Sweet selection of surf gear. Plus it's easily the best coffee I've had in Duluth.

I always enjoy stopping in for a coffee and a chat at The Back Alley. There really is a strong local presence at the store in consideration to the inventory, employees, and regular customers that one will encounter during any given visit. Call it a cultural experience if you like, but you won't regret stopping in at Duluth's only surf shop to take it all in. Did I even mention how friendly they are?

The absolute best coffee in Duluth! We stop here every time time we come to Duluth. Our kids say it has the best cup of hot chocolate in the state! We are not surfers, but love the friendly atmosphere and the friendly people you meet while shopping in the store.

I have always looked at the sign because a surf shop that serves coffee sounds straight up my alley. Well today I made the venture. Their coffee was mind blowing. I had a campfire mocha it was smooth and the perfect level of sweetness. My had the miel which was also just fantastic. If you like coffee try one here. I'll be back.

One of my favorite places to stop in Duluth for coffee and vibes.

Fun stop at The Back Alley! Musicians playing and good coffee and chai 👍

Love The Back Alley! Super chill vibes and good coffee. I also love looking at all the handmade and local vendor items in the store.