Dream Cloud Coffee Roasters reopens in former Mocha Moose site (2024)

TWO HARBORS — Dream Cloud Coffee Roasters, formerly located in downtown Duluth, made its debut in the Two Harbors area on May 3.

Since relocating, Dream Cloud has expanded its offerings with a micro-bakery and retail selections, in addition to coffee and tea. The establishment also holds a beer-and-wine license.

Contributed / Emily Comnick

This month, baked-good options include brioche jam buns (strawberry, rhubarb or raspberry), cake donuts, cardamom buns with whipped cream, and coffee cake.

The cafe, located between Knife River and Two Harbors, is open Fridays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Owners Charlie and Emily Comnick sold their home in Duluth and purchased the former site of Mocha Moose at 543 Scenic Drive for $260,000 from Brian Hanley. The Comnicks moved into their new upper-level residence in January 2023.

Contributed / Emily Comnick

“It's just the two of us and we just want to live a little simple life up here on the North Shore,” Charlie Comnick said.

The 2,685-square-foot building sits on 1.22 acres of land. With the coffee roaster installed, the cabinetries built out, as well as fresh coats of paint in pastel shades of pink and blue, the new space looks and feels more like a living room with a vintage-modern vibe, Comnick said. Windows overlook the garden. Soft, twinkly lighting creates a whimsical atmosphere.

Contributed / Emily Comnick

There is seating for 30 people indoors and outdoors. Inside, patrons will find a large bookshelf to either cozy up and read while enjoying a warm cup, or to check out and take home.

The patio hosts a small gazebo, and several picnic and outdoor tables are scattered about the yard. Dogs are welcome so long as owners clean up after them.

All that remains is the landscaping.

“Now it’s kind of a marathon more than a race,” he added. “We wanted to keep those limited hours so we have the capacity and energy to be involved in the community in other ways.”

Contributed / Emily Comnick

On weekdays, the couple will be busy baking, cleaning, roasting and creating.

Comnick said, “There are some expectations in regards to what we're doing and what we offer, but I think that sort of skepticism will slowly drift away as people gain an experience for what we're up to.”

Before closing its doors roughly two years ago, the Mocha Moose offered a space for local artists to sell their work. However, most of the art sold at Dream Cloud will be the Comnicks’. Emily's photography, cards, felt work and homemade jams will be available for sale, in addition to used books and Charlie's handmade pottery.

Contributed / Emily Comnick

Another difference is that soups and sandwiches do not appear on Dream Cloud’s menu (yet). Once the couple gains their footing, Charlie Comnick said they may begin offering a wider variety of foods.

Comnick gained over a decade of roasting experience while working at Duluth Coffee Company, before departing and starting a business with his wife. For now, the main focus of their business will remain on roasting coffee for wholesale, which is available for purchase in Duluth at the Falastin deli, the Back Alley surf shop, Northern Waters Smokehaus, Wussow’s Concert Cafe and 190 Degree Coffee and Tea.

Dream Cloud will also continue hosting events and music in its new home. A grand piano that was donated will remain for anyone to come play at the shop.

Contributed / Charlie and Emily Comnick