by Abby Harvey, Reilly Gaunt, Coleton Pratt, Isaac Wolf, and Nick Windsor
The need for caffeine is evident. This is especially true in a county centered on two major college campuses. Between Indiana Wesleyan University and Taylor University, many college students and community members long for cups of coffee to get them through the day.
Local coffee shops have become a staple in big cities and small towns. Around the Grant County area, there are a variety of coffee shops like McConn Coffee Co., Lolas’ at the Inn, The Abbey Coffee Co., and The Bridge Café. These coffee shops have been involved in their communities in unique ways.
Behind the unique taste and flavor of each place lays a story. Local shops like Lola’s at the Inn, The Bridge, The Abbey, and McConn Coffee each have a reason for success that is an integral part of their story.
McConn Coffee Co., Lolas’ at the Inn, The Abbey Coffee Co., The Bridge Café, and the recently closed Sender Café are all within Grant County and an 11-mile radius of each other.
The Lola’s owners agree that location is their biggest strength. Lola’s is located right across the street from the entrance to Elder Hall on the west side of Indiana Wesleyan’s campus. They use their location to attract IWU students as well as others in the area surrounding campus.
JC Herring, a barista at The Abbey, said that the environment in their coffee shop is unique compared to others. “We offer a very cozy spot,” Herring said.
At The Bridge Café, their connection to Taylor students, as well as the variety of menu options, is what sets them apart. “We’re more accommodating, and that’s a pull that we get, and I think that’s definitely helped us stay afloat,” general manager Gail Olsen said.
McConn has the advantage of being located in the student center on the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University. “That makes it much more convenient for students to get it as they go to class,” shift manager Jenna DeMichael said.
While these shops have been able to stay open, Sender Café has permanently closed its doors.
Sender Café opened in March of 2021 to provide coffee, community, and a place to study for IWU students and Marion locals. The café was unable to stay open after the spring of 2023.
Each of these coffee shops has something special to offer their customers. Whether it’s convenience, variety, or atmosphere, these Grant County coffee shops can provide what you’re looking for in your coffee-going experience.