Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie in Bay Village, Ohio, a new establishment named Trust Coffee Co. is rapidly gaining popularity. This unique café not only serves coffee but also offers cocktails as the evening sets in. The founders, Tess Smith and her husband Mike Smith, have meticulously crafted an inviting atmosphere that reflects both warmth and sophistication. Spanning 1,400 square feet, the space incorporates materials like marble, walnut, and gold, which subtly shift the ambiance from day to night through varying lighting and music. Drawing inspiration from the building’s past as a liquor store and incorporating elements from their family history, the Smiths have created a place where every detail tells a story. Their coffee offerings include selections from renowned roasters across the United States, providing customers with a diverse range of flavors.
The interior design of Trust Coffee Co. pays homage to its storied past while integrating personal touches from the Smith family. Tess Smith shared insights into the thoughtful design choices, including art pieces featuring love letters exchanged between Mike’s great-grandparents in 1902 and vintage wooden shoe molds as a nod to Andy’s Shoe Repair. These elements contribute to an overall welcoming environment that feels cozy yet refined. Additionally, the café benefits from Tess’s other venture, The Print Shop, supplying gifts and home items that enhance the décor.
Mike Smith emphasized their commitment to sourcing high-quality coffee beans from various regions nationwide. Collaborating with local Cleveland favorite Duck-Rabbit Coffee and other esteemed roasters such as Valor Coffee, King State Coffee, Cultivar Coffee, and Cat and Cloud, they ensure a rich variety for patrons to explore. This diversity extends beyond just coffee; their cocktail program seamlessly integrates espresso, cold brew concentrates, and house-made syrups into creative concoctions. For food enthusiasts, scratch-made pastries and elevated breakfast/lunch options reflect the culinary expertise of Thyme Catering and Thyme Table restaurant bar.
Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment like Mahlkönig grinders and a La Marzocco Linea, Trust Coffee Co. crafts exceptional beverages ranging from classic favorites to innovative seasonal specials. Customers can enjoy cold brew on tap alongside Prosecco, complemented by homemade ice cream affogatos. As the day progresses, hearty fare takes center stage, offering delightful meals such as coffee-rubbed tenderloin focaccia sandwiches.
After years of meticulous planning and construction, the Smiths invite visitors to experience Trust Coffee Co.'s harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. They express confidence in their partnership with Duck-Rabbit Coffee, emphasizing mutual support among family-owned businesses. This synergy allows them to focus on delivering outstanding pastry and bar programs while maintaining excellence in every aspect of their operations.
