Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea

Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea is a Michigan-based café chain founded in 1993 by Wei and Lisa Bee in downtown Ann Arbor. The couple, both with backgrounds in family-owned restaurants, envisioned a coffeehouse blending classic café fare with globally inspired coffees and teas.

This creates an environment that is both welcoming and innovative, appealing to a broad range of customers looking for quality and atmosphere.

The café's menu features a diverse selection of beverages, including specialty coffees, teas, and light fare. Signature drinks like the French Vietnamese au lait and Thai iced tea showcase the brand's commitment to globally influenced flavors.

Food offerings range from pastries and breakfast sandwiches to salads and sandwiches, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.

Sustainability and Community

Sweetwaters emphasizes sustainability and community engagement. They source coffee and tea from fair trade suppliers and provide environmentally friendly packaging options to reduce their ecological footprint.

Each location actively participates in local initiatives such as collaborating with artists, hosting events, and supporting charities to strengthen community ties.

Locations

As of August 2025, Sweetwaters operates over 50 locations across the United States. These include states like Michigan, Ohio, California, Georgia, Missouri, and Texas.

Notable locations include:

• Ann Arbor, Canton, and Novi in Michigan
• Columbus, Ohio
• Scottsdale, Arizona
• St. Louis, Missouri

In Columbus, Ohio, Sweetwaters has a location at The Pointe, offering a welcoming environment for patrons to enjoy their beverages and light fare.

Expansion Plans

The company continues to expand with plans to double its locations in the coming years. Sweetwaters focuses on areas with growing demand for quality coffee and community spaces.

Franchise opportunities are available for those interested in bringing Sweetwaters to new communities.

Company Commitment

Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea remains dedicated to providing a unique café experience combining quality products, community involvement, and a strong commitment to sustainability.