In our search for all things coffee, we continuously look for more of Milwaukee’s finest hidden gems. Last week, this took me down to Bay View to Sven’s Cafe.

Located at 2699 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., this small coffee shop has an eclectic European style, looking like it could be nestled amid the German countryside. There is a small parking lot, with lots of room on the side streets for additional parking. The walls are covered in art, posters and flyers for local events, while each of the tables has a vase of fresh flowers.

Some coffee shops are better for quiet work spaces, and while this is definitely a possibility at Sven’s, the general feel is much more conversational. The small quarters were buzzing with conversation. It could have been the late Friday morning atmosphere, but it seemed like the place you could chat with friends for hours and hours.

While the space is small, there is plenty of seating. Apart from the main room that hosts most of the tables, there is also a smaller room with a fireplace and fewer seats, which allows for a bit of space from the chatter.

Regarding coffee, Sven’s prides itself on brewing organic, fair trade coffee. Coffee and tea are both available for purchase, and they do also have jars of local, seasonal honey for sale. (Save the bees!) I just got a muffin to munch on, which was great. For something more substantial, panini, soups, sandwiches and more are all available.

We love Sven’s Cafe, and can’t get enough of its eclectic feel and friendly atmosphere. Stop down sometime, for as little or as long as you want, and give this hidden treasure a try.