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Midnight Coffee

Coffee Emporium became Midnight Coffee in 2025, keeping its locally roasted beans while rebuilding the Market Street room around a warmer identity.

Editorial listingNorthsideIowa City
Capanna beans301 E. MarketHours unconfirmedLicensed for beer and wine

Prelaunch editorial listing: This independent business was selected for the current editorial guide. There is no commercial relationship, and Midnight Coffeedid not purchase this inclusion.

Editorial image selected for Midnight Coffee; it does not depict the business
Editorial stock image selected to convey the category; it does not depict Midnight Coffee.

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About Midnight Coffee

Coffee Emporium opened here in 1991. Alex and Jordan Nelson bought it from founder Abby Ochs in 2024, then renamed it Midnight Coffee in March 2025. The new identity added drinks such as the Golden Hour, while keeping Capanna beans roasted nearby in North Liberty. The Nelsons rebuilt the room around the dark-outside, warm-inside character of another business they own. A local artist's mural, Edison bulbs, an open layout, and a refreshed fireplace came with the change. Milk comes from Dan and Debbie's Creamery in Ely, with pastries from The Eat Shop and Andy's in Tiffin. The Iowa City location was licensed for beer and wine in August 2025, though current service and hours should be confirmed before visiting.

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