Looking for a friendly space to hang out, learn a new skill like drawing, enjoy a pastry, or sip a cup of coffee in Gettysburg? Look no further than Presidents Coffee, a family-owned coffee shop that promises a blend of creativity, community, and delicious coffee.
Owned by Tom and Emily Pottinger, Presidents Coffee opened its doors just over a year ago, at the corner of Chambersburg and Washington Streets, a stone’s throw from Lincoln Square. Their dream of opening a coffee shop has been more than a decade in the making, and their shared love for Gettysburg, where they went on early dates, made it the perfect spot to bring their vision to life.
A Visionary Coffee Space
Tom and Emily’s inspiration for Presidents Coffee stemmed from their passion for creating a warm and modern space for the local community. Initially considering an industrial theme, Tom pivoted his design vision upon seeing the building’s interior, leading to the creation of a more modern and welcoming aesthetic.
The result? A coffee shop that feels like a “missing piece” in Gettysburg, offering not just coffee, but also an atmosphere that fosters creativity and conversation.
A Menu Born From Experimentation
When it came to crafting the menu, Tom and Emily embraced an experimental approach. The “Lincoln Latte,” a house favorite, was the product of testing different flavor combinations, combining maple spice and vanilla for a comforting and unique taste.
Presidents Coffee prides itself on offering drinks with a “coffee forward” profile, ensuring that the taste of coffee shines through even in flavored drinks. Their partnership with Passenger Coffee allows customers to explore six unique roasts, each with its own flavor notes. The team encourages customers to engage with the process, ask questions, and learn about the blends, creating an educational and inviting environment for coffee enthusiasts and novices alike.
Slow, Artisanal Coffee Culture
At Presidents Coffee, there’s no rush in crafting the perfect cup. Baristas take a “slow, artisanal approach,” ensuring that each drink is carefully made while offering customers the chance to learn and savor the process. This slower pace encourages patrons to take a moment to relax, unwind, and enjoy a break from their busy lives.
Building Community, One Cup at a Time
What sets Presidents Coffee apart is not just its carefully crafted drinks, but the community it has built. Despite doing no paid marketing, the shop has grown organically through word-of-mouth and social media mentions from satisfied customers. Tom and Emily have found a wealth of friendships and connections through the shop, creating a welcoming space for both locals and visitors.
In a town steeped in history, Presidents Coffee adds a modern, creative touch to Gettysburg’s vibrant community. Whether you’re looking to make new friends, sip a locally-sourced cup of coffee, or simply enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, Presidents Coffee is the perfect spot to do it all.