By J.T. Morse, reporting for Bluebonnet News
Black and white images adorn the walls, serving as reminders of bygone days when cars were made of steel, water towers were major landmarks, and people still sat across from one another over their morning cup of joe and chatted about life, love, and the goings-on in Liberty County.
This nostalgic essence of community connection is what many visitors have expressed sensing upon their initial visit to one of Cleveland’s newest grassroots gems, The Crossing Coffee Shop.
Co-owners, and partners in life and business, Tommy and Sharla Bowen officially opened the doors of The Crossing on Sept. 9, 2019.
“We’d been to many shops in West Texas towns and loved the feel of these small-town shops, especially in the historic districts,” says Tommy about how he and his wife’s entrepreneurial dream was sparked. “Once we moved Easy Street Florist over to our current location, we felt it lacked something. That’s when we decided to go all in on our coffee shop idea.”
With a mission statement to “love, honor, and serve all who enter,” the Bowens have expressed a desire to not only offer guests a lavish menu of delightful beverages and comfortingly tasty treats, but they also hope to provide a place for people to come together for sharing their highs, their lows, and everything in between.
“We love our staff. We love what we do, and we love our community,” says Tommy with emphasis on the word “community.”
While spacious and minimalistic in some ways, the décor of The Crossing is also warm and inviting with a plethora of polished-wood dining sets, a comfy nook with throw pillows on cushioned chairs, and rustic, kitschy details galore.
On the drink menu, patrons will find a range of hot and cold beverages including traditional lattes, cocoas, and breakfast teas. But, in addition, the Bowens are dedicated to testing out innovative new options and offering specialty concoctions like TBO’s Loco Coffee and Nicole’s Lavender London Fog.
As for food, a variety of pastries are always available in the bakery cases, and every day the lovely chef/baristas whip up a hot breakfast option and specialty lunch menu alternative. In that realm, it must be noted that Momma Lee’s chicken salad — currently served on Wednesdays — is so popular that it often sells out. Another delectable must-mention is the BYOB (Bring Your Own Banana) discounted banana splits served on Saturdays. The menu is equally provisional for younger taste buds, as well as, more discerning, matured and potentially pickier palates.
When asked how the business was faring thus far, Tommy’s face lit up and he shared details about their upcoming expansion plans.
“Currently, we’re acquiring a warehouse space in the rear of the shop that we plan to use for storage and office space. We’ve also acquired the small cottage-like commercial building known as ‘Little Crockett.’ Sharla and I envision putting a small gourmet chocolate shop in that space and turning the outdoor space, between the cottage and the warehouse, into a tea garden,” he said.
There seem to be many plans — great and small — cultivating and cogitating for this burgeoning local business. Stay tuned for more news in the future about the expansion.
Located at 125 N. San Jacinto Avenue between W. Crockett and W. Houston streets, The Crossing is currently open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. You can find out more about this floral shop meets café meets gift boutique, on The Crossing Coffee Shop Facebook page or by popping by the shop next time you’re the mood for more than merely coffee.