Est. Houghton, Michigan

Baked with intention.
Served with purpose.

Artisan breads, handcrafted pastries, and a curated grocery selection — rooted in the Upper Peninsula since day one.

Explore Our Offerings Find Us on Shelden Ave
Artisan bread display at The Prickly Pine Cafe
Our Story

A Houghton tradition
you can taste

The Prickly Pine Cafe began with a simple conviction: that the best food comes from patience, quality ingredients, and a genuine respect for the craft. Nestled on Shelden Avenue, we've become a gathering place for neighbors who value freshly baked sourdough as much as a carefully selected local coffee blend.

Every loaf, pastry, and pantry item on our shelves is chosen with the same care we'd give our own table. That's not marketing — it's just how we do things.

Small-batch baking daily
Locally sourced ingredients
Fresh throughout the day
Community-focused since opening
From Our Kitchen & Pantry

What we bring to your table

From hearth-baked sourdough to hand-selected staples, every item earns its place on our shelves.

Fresh sourdough bread Daily Fresh

Artisan Breads

Sourdough, ciabatta, and specialty loaves baked each morning

Assorted pastries and desserts

Handcrafted Pastries

Buttery croissants, seasonal tarts, and daily dessert selections

Specialty coffee and beverages

Specialty Coffee

Locally roasted blends, loose-leaf teas, and seasonal specials

Curated grocery and pantry items Local Picks

Curated Groceries

Thoughtfully chosen pantry staples from regional producers

Custom cakes and celebration treats

Custom Celebrations

Birthday cakes, holiday specials, and order-ahead treats

Gift baskets and food gifts

Gift Selections

Curated gift boxes and hampers for any occasion

The Prickly Pine Difference

Why Houghton keeps coming back

It's not just what we sell — it's how we think about food, community, and the time we spend together.

From Scratch, Daily

Nothing sits overnight that doesn't need to. Our bakers start before dawn so you get the day's best first.

UP-Based Sourcing

We partner with local farms and producers whenever possible, keeping dollars and flavor in the region.

Without the Rush

Take your time. Our space is designed for lingering — with good coffee, good bread, and zero pressure.

Known by Name

We learn your orders. Regulars aren't a loyalty program — they're just people we recognize and appreciate.

From Our Neighbors

What Houghton says

Real words from the people who make this community what it is.

"

The sourdough here changed how I think about bread. I drive past three other bakeries just to stop here first.

Margaret L.

Houghton resident

"

It's become our Saturday ritual — coffee, a croissant, and actually talking to each other instead of scrolling. Worth more than you'd think.

David & Sarah K.

Regulars since opening

"

I ordered a custom cake for my daughter's graduation and it was the kind of thing you see in magazines. Everyone asked where it was from.

Jennifer T.

Houghton resident

Come Say Hello

Find us on Shelden Avenue

Hours & Location

Address

524 Shelden Ave
Houghton, MI 49931

Monday – Friday 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Send Us a Note

Message Sent

Thank you for reaching out. We'll get back to you within one business day.

Is this your business?This is my business