New brew on the block
I ordered a medium iced coffee at The Coffee Zone’s counter on a hot Tuesday morning. I was anxious to take my first sip because I had read of the Bardstown Road coffee shop earlier in the Courier-Journal. The article mentioned that The Coffee Zone’s decor features refurbished items from local Goodwill stores, and I had to check it out for myself.
While I waited for my interview with owner Craig Bishop, I admired a variety of white and Christmas-themed lanterns that were hanging on the walls. Staggered evenly around the shop, the lanterns were welcoming; I felt like I was at home.
Once Craig began describing his love for Goodwill (and Christmas!), I realized that I really was at home.
The Coffee Zone opened in the Highlands in May 2016, and since the first brew, it has become known for great coffee, tasty muffins, and Goodwill gold. I asked Craig where his genius idea rooted. With a smile on his face, it was obvious my question had hit on one of his passions. “It all started with Christmas. I was looking at magazines, and the next thing you know, I’m saying, ‘Hey, I saw one of those at Goodwill! I can make that.’ Then, all of a sudden, I am bargain shopping at every Goodwill I can find.”
Craig and his wife Diana escorted me around the shop, pointing out all of their Goodwill finds. With my note-pad in hand, I jotted down their treasures: a wooden counter purchased from the East Broadway location; a collection of lanterns, Hurstborne Parkway store; a silver baker’s rack, Taylorsville Road; glassware, Middletown location; a dresser drawer used behind the counter; a clock; a children’s chalk board turned street sign, and many decorative pieces displayed during the holidays.
Craig purchases pieces he finds useful and refurbishes them if necessary. From managing a coffee shop to designing Star Wars and Frozen themed lanterns, I am thoroughly impressed with Craig blends his passions with today’s fan favorites.
By the way, my cup of coffee was fantastic. You should try one, too! The Coffee Zone is offering a 10 percent discount on customers’ orders if they mention this feature on our blog, The Good Life. So, go ahead and make a trip to Bardstown Road after you visit your favorite Goodwill store. After all, it’s a good life.
Best,
A