The Indie Bob Spot: Buffalo Books & Coffee

Buffalo Books & Coffee - Buffalo, MN

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Readers, here me now and believe me later (Hans and Franz, SNL), you need to move QUICKLY to this independent bookstore in east central Minnesota. No, it's not closing any time soon. But the weather will soon be changing to winter and the view from the bookstore's cafe patio will be appearing for a limited time only. The view here is one of the best I've seen from a bookstore (although The Book Worm in Edwards, CO isn't bad!). A great view, a cozy cafe, and a charmng bookstore all rolled into one. No wonder this place has been going strong for 21 years.

The population of Buffalo, MN is approximately 15,000 yet they have a solid, thriving, bookstore and cafe located in the heart of the downtown district. This indie is worthy of any community and any sized town. The one-level store has an excellent balance of books and sidelines to go along with the cafe. The sidelines and cafe are an important part of the success at this indie. Some of these sidelines include items offered by local artisans such as greeting cards and pendants, and coffee mugs. Business does reasonably well here thanks to a strong core of local customers. The store does, however, attract customers from Minneapolis and its surrounding suburbs due to a business district that offers monthly promotions. Buffalo Books & Coffee is able to benefit from these events, a nice bump for the business.

I'm so appreciative of the wonderful people I meet on this journey and their kindnesses extended to me. It's the same story here at Buffalo Books. I had a great talk with Susie, the store manager, and Bobbi, the cafe manager and "coffee queen." Both of these ladies were super to visit with, all on a Monday morning as the store enjoyed steady business. You can tell that this place has a strong core of customers by the interactions they enjoy with Bobbi and Susie.

The store has occasional author signings on-site. They also have book clubs that meet here and an interesting group called the Socrates Club. All great ways to show off the store. Success here also benefits by having no Barnes & Noble nearby.

I urge you to take advantage of the remaining days of nice fall weather and visit this terrific indie. If you're in Buffalo and aren't a regular, you need to become one. But in Minnesota, sooner or later winter will come. When it does you're going to need a book and a coffee. This is your place. Go to an indie and buy a book. Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED: The Devil All The Time, Donald Ray Pollock. Fringe characters in West Virginia and Ohio during the 1940s - 60s. Somewhat repellent and at times shocking. Outstanding. I loved this book.

CURRENTLY READING: Old Filth, Jane Gardham.

RECENTLY PURCHASED: Us, David Nicholls.