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If I am dedicating a day to food touring, rest assured coffee will be part of the equation at some point, as was the case during a recent expedition to Fort Smith. The coffee at the aptly named Fort Smith Coffee Co. was so good that I went back just hours after my first visit. I will have details in a bit, but first, a quick look back at the company’s history.
Co-owners and operators Gabe and Kaity Gould opened their first location in May 2017 after renovating a 1928-built filling station at 1101 Rogers Avenue in the heart of town. Three years later, the two established a second location nearby in The Bakery District. The latter is where my two visits took place. Nothing against the original location, but I loved the sheer size, openness, and ability to spread out inside or out at 70 South 7th Street.
After ordering a cold brew (my standard order when temps are hot outside) and taking a gander at baked goods of various scones, cookies, and breads on the counter, I got my drink and headed towards one of the coffee shop’s comfy couches. Unfortunately, the insanely cool-looking individual hammocks were already occupied by a few 20-somethings. No worries, I was perfectly content lounging on the sofa with a drink in hand, just steps away from the coffee roaster.
Oh yeah, Fort Smith Coffee Co. roasts all its own coffee. The product, at least what I tried, was bold yet smooth, with just a hint of bitterness that I love from a strong cold brew. My youngest daughter, who is thankfully not yet a coffee drinker, did partake in one of the seasonal non-coffee drinks. True to its name, the Dreamsicle Italian Soda was a hit. However, next time around, I wouldn’t mind if she ordered a Fruity Pebbles Latte (and let me have a sip or two, of course) or an affogato with espresso, vanilla ice cream, and a house-made syrup.
From the looks of it, Fort Smith Coffee Co. also has nightly entertainment like concerts, trivia, and corn hole at The Bakery District location. I even noticed a food trailer out front that seems to be a separate business. It’s obviously a popular spot. Next time, I plan to try out some of the house-made pastries. I might even pay a visit to the original location. Speaking of locations, it looks like ownership has something planned for 2022.
Keep an eye out on social media for updates. Until then, go enjoy what the Goulds have already created. You will not be disappointed.
Did You Know?
Fort Smith Coffee Co. has several varieties of whole bean coffee available for shipping. Sizes include sample packs, 2/3-pound bags, and 5-pound bags.
Two Locations
1101 Rogers Avenue (Fort Smith)
Phone: 479-226-2437
Hours: Open Daily 6 a.m.-10 p.m.
70 South 7th Street (Fort Smith)
Phone: 479-522-3394
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday & Saturday 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
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