Since 1994, Alterra has been bringing strong coffee to the folks of the metro-Milwaukee area. From the industrial vibe of the Fifth Ward Foundry café to the amazing views and history at Alterra at the Lake, each of our locations has a unique personality and style.

One common thread shared by all of our cafes is our use of recycled building materials and our 100% participation in WE Energies "Energy for Tomorrow" program. Click on the café buttons on the right to read more about our cafes and to learn why Alterra was voted one of the country's "Ten Hottest Coffeehouses" by Forbes Traveler Magazine.

Alterra Humboldt

Alterra on Humboldt, established in 2007, houses Alterra's headquarters, main roasting facility, bakery and the Humboldt café.

Alterra Bayshore Town Center

Although many of our customers are more familiar with our cafes in the city, we actually trace our roots back to the former Bayshore Mall in Glendale. We opened our very first retail store - a kiosk originally across from Boston Store - in 1994 and then moved to a much larger space in the Bayshore Town Center in late 2006. This new location allows us to serve an expanded food menu in addition to our signature beverages.

Alterra US Bank

Located on the mezzanine level, our kiosk at the US Bank Center opened in 2000 and provides a welcome oasis for the many office workers in the area. The staff there is legendary for keeping the line moving while offering superior customer service.

Alterra Mayfair Mall

Since 1999 our Mayfair kiosk has been serving weary shoppers, eager mall-walkers, and rambunctious teens. It is located on the ground level in front of the J.Crew and Apple stores.

Alterra Grafton

Our new café in Grafton represents Alterra's first foray outside of Milwaukee County. Opened in 2007, it's located at the bustling intersection of Washington Street (Highway 60) and 12th Avenue in an exciting retail development that also houses a wine store and a bike shop.

Alterra Wauwatosa

Located in the Locker's Point complex of Wauwatosa, Alterra's eighth café is housed under the same roof as Locker's Flowers and Chocolaterie Stam at the corner of Swan Boulevard and North Avenue. The building's large windows are reminiscent of the original Locker's greenhouse and offer a bright, sunny seating area. Alterra Tosa features free wi-fi and a full café food menu.

Alterra Foundry

Located in Milwaukee's up-and-coming Fifth Ward neighborhood, the Alterra Foundry is housed in the former Kramer International foundry. The café's post-industrial design pays homage to the manufacturing tradition and history of our city. Opened in early 2006, the Foundry quickly has become a favorite morning coffee destination, a convenient place for lunch, and a relaxing hang-out spot in the evening.

Alterra at the Lake

Built in 1888, the historic Milwaukee River Flushing Station is now home to Alterra at the Lake, a unique cafe/deli serving sandwiches, soups and salads, plus freshly brewed coffee, espresso, tea, and bakery items made daily from scratch.

Every summer, Alterra at the Lake is also host to the Florentine Opera and Musica del Lago music series. For more information on the 2008 summer series please click here.

Prospect Cafe

In 1997 Alterra converted a former auto parts store into a café, roastery, warehouse facility, and main office. Customers can watch the roasters and packers in action after ordering their drinks, freshly made baked goods, or bulk coffee. This location represents the hub of all of our operations and has become a cornerstone of Milwaukee's bustling East Side neighborhood.