It all begins with an idea. In our case it sparked a simple thought: why isn’t there a coffee shop in a town with a college? Our journey from California to small town Kansas eventually was fueled by these questions. Our Vision was to create more than a coffeeshop - a culinary hub with a focus on scratch cooking. Our mission extends beyond serving coffee and food. We aspire to redefine people’s expectations and elevate the coffee shop experience.
WHO WE ARE
Meet Myra and Gabe Gleason, a duo whose journey from the creative chaos of California to the simplicity of Iola, Kansas, embodies vulnerability and resilience. Myra, a lover of gardens, gardening, and tea parties, and Gabe, a chef with over a decade of experience in the industry, producer, and bourbon connoisseur, try to thread creativity into everything they do. When the pandemic disrupted their music career, they turned the catalyst into a transformation. In this juncture of change, the Gleasons redefined their narrative, turning the unexpected pause into a canvas for culinary exploration and communal bonds.
With no ties to Kansas, they stumbled upon Iola's untapped potential—a college town devoid of a coffee haven.
Fueled by a desire to nurture community, they uprooted from California, venturing into a town of 6,000 with no familial anchor. Opening in September of 2022, Gabe's culinary flair and Myra’s curated experiences has brought a refreshing twist to Iola's palate, reshaping the local coffeeshop experience by introducing a diverse culinary range to a town accustomed to more modest offerings. Recognized with a 2023 Kansas Business Merit Award and named 2023 Young Entrepreneurs from the Iola Chamber of Commerce, Myra and Gabe are expanding their venture. In less than two years, their decision to open a second location reveals a profound investment in the Iola community. This swift expansion underscores their commitment to not just meeting but exceeding the town's expectations, showcasing a belief in the community's potential for growth. The decision to expand isn't merely a strategic move; it's a declaration of their belief in the community's appetite for something distinctive and their boldness in taking risks to contribute to the town's cultural and culinary landscape. Their Drive Thru opens February 2024