HAS HEART Café: Where Coffee Meets Creativity and Community in Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS NEIGBORHOODS-has heart

What started as a conversation between a Navy veteran and an artist over coffee has evolved into one of Grand Rapids’ most meaningful gathering places. Located at 22 Sheldon Ave NE, [HAS HEART] Café is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a space where stories are shared, art is made, and community comes first.

A Mission Fueled by Design and Service

[HAS HEART] began in 2010 when Michael Hyacinthe, a U.S. Navy veteran, met designer Tyler Way. After connecting over a shared desire to bridge the gap between veterans and civilians, they launched a series of collaborative design projects that paired veterans with artists to tell their stories through apparel.

From early exhibitions at ArtPrize to partnerships with brands like Threadless, Wolverine Worldwide, and the Detroit Pistons, [HAS HEART] has become a national movement rooted right here in Grand Rapids.

In 2015, the team pitched a bold idea: to transform the Veterans Memorial Park building into a permanent café and creative space. Years of planning and fundraising led to the opening of HAS HEART Café, which now serves as both a public hangout and a living tribute to veteran storytelling.

What You’ll Find Inside

Whether you're stopping in for a cup of Madcap coffee or planning to stay a while, the café has a full menu of fresh offerings from Cafe de Miro, premium Rishi teas, soft-serve custard, and local baked goods.

Coffee & Espresso

Batch Brew

Pour Over 

Latte

Specialty Lattes (Caramel, Lavender, Mocha, Miel, Vanilla)

Iced Coffee, Cortados, Cappuccinos, and more

Tea & Lemonade

Chai, Matcha, London Fog Lattes – $5.75

Assorted Rishi Teas – $3.50

Iced Tea Lemonade 

Breakfast Bowls & Smoothies

Acai Bowl 

Overnight Oats

Smoothies (Wild Berry, Tropical, Nutty Mocha)

Affogato (espresso + frozen custard)

Bagels, Paninis & Wraps

Bagel + Schmear

Perfect Egg Sandwich

Grilled Cheese, Caprese, Turkey & Cheddar Paninis

Chicken Caesar or Ribeye Cheesesteak Wraps

Baked Goods

Seasonal Muffins, Croissants, Danish, and Cookies

A Café With Purpose

Every cup you order supports the broader mission of [HAS HEART]: to provide veterans with a platform for creative expression, build community understanding, and turn stories into lasting connections.

It’s not just about great coffee—it’s about honoring service, sparking conversation, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome.

HAS HEART Café
📍 22 Sheldon Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
⏰ Open daily — check hours via @hasheart or hasheart.us