D’Marion Alexander
Here in McPherson, Kansas, Craft Coffee Parlor stands as a testament of the community, passion, and the art of coffee if there’s ever been one. Since its founding, the cafe has become more than a place to grab a cup of coffee. It’s evolved into a gathering spot where locals connect, creators find inspiration, and the essence of small town charm prosper.
The journey of Craft Coffee Shop began with a shared vision between McPherson College alumni Phil Parrish and Nick Unruh. In 2013, Phil opened the doors of the cafe, aiming to provide the community with a space to celebrate quality coffee and the joy of gathering. Nick, who had been working at The Well, another local coffee shop, found his passion for coffee brewing through hand brewing. This newfound interest led him to Craft Coffee Parlor, where he joined the team and eventually became a manager.
As Nick’s began to gain more experience in the coffee industry, he partnered with Phil in 2017 to establish Pennant Coffee Roasters, a local coffee roastery. The beans roasted by Pennant are now featured prominently in Craft Coffee Parlor’s offerings, creating a seamless blend of local craftsmanship and community support.
Walking into Craft Coffee Parlor, visitors are greeted by the rich scent of freshly brewed coffee and the warm welcome of a space designed for relaxation and connection. The cafe’s menu boasts a variety of offerings, from robust espresso drinks to wholesome breakfast bowls and acai bowls, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The combination of quality food, expertly crafted beverages, and a welcoming atmosphere has garnered the cafe a loyal following.
Phil Parrish, reflecting on the cafe’s evolution, shared, “Our goal was always to create a space where people felt at home, a place where they could enjoy a great cup of coffee and connect with others in the community.”
To gain insight into the daily operations and the experiences of those who bring the cafe to life, I spoke with Emily, a barista at Craft Coffee. Emily described her role as more than just serving coffee; it’s about creating an experience for each customer. “Every day is different,” she said. “We get to know our regulars, learn their names, their favorite drinks, and it feels like we’re part of their routine.”
Handling the morning rush can be challenging, but Emily emphasized the importance of teamwork and maintaining a positive attitude. “It’s all about staying calm and supporting each other,” she explained. “When the line gets long, we just keep moving, keep smiling, and make sure every cup is made with care.”
Beyond its role as it being just a coffee shop, Craft Coffee has become a cultural hub in McPherson. The cafe regularly hosts events such as open mic nights, poetry readings, and live music, providing a platform for local artists and fostering a sense of community. These events not only showcase local talent but also bring together individuals from various walks of life, strengthening the bonds within the town.
Phil noted, “We wanted to create a space where creativity could flourish, where people could come together and share their passions. The events have been a wonderful way to engage with the community and support local artists.”
Like many small businesses, Craft Coffee Parlor has faced its share of challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant hurdles, forcing the cafe to adapt quickly to new health guidelines and changing customer behaviors. However, the support from the community played a pivotal role in the cafe’s resilience. “During the pandemic, we saw our regulars go out of their way to support us,” Phil recalled. “Whether it was ordering takeout, purchasing gift cards, or simply checking in, their support meant the world to us.”
Looking ahead, both Phil and Nick are optimistic about the future. They continue to explore new ways to enhance the customer experience not only for the better overall experience of visitors but also for their backyard loyal supporters. Expanding the menu to introduce new events that celebrate the rich culture of McPherson is something that has been discussed between the company.
Craft Coffee’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to community. It serves as a reminder of the impact that small businesses can have on the fabric of a town. “At the end of the day, it’s about more than just coffee. It’s about creating a space where people feel valued, where they can connect, and where they can experience something special,” said Phil.
For those in McPherson and beyond, Craft Coffee remains a staple of what can be achieved when vision meets community spirit. Whether you are a local resident or just passing through for a quick visit, an overtake to this charming shop offers more than a caffeine fit.
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