Local Business Spotlight: Rise & Grind Coffee Co. – Brewing More Than Just Coffee in Austin, TX
Wake Up and Smell the Change Brewing in Austin
What started as a humble coffee truck and a dream in one of America’s fastest-growing cities has quickly turned into a beacon for community enthusiasts, coffee connoisseurs, and entrepreneurs alike. Rise & Grind Coffee Co., nestled in the heart of Austin, TX, is not just serving up expertly roasted coffee blends – they’re stirring up local pride and redefining what it means to be a community-first coffee brand. In a sea of big-name chains, this local gem managed to stand out by focusing on connection, culture, and coffee that tells a story. If you’re a coffee lover—or just someone who values passionate local businesses—you won’t want to miss what’s brewing here.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Business Overview
- Community Impact
- Customer Experience
- Visual Gallery
- Call to Action
- Explore More on CompaniesByZipCode.com
Introduction
In Austin, Texas—a city famed for its vibrant culture, live music, and indie businesses—Rise & Grind Coffee Co. has emerged as more than just your neighborhood coffee stop. Located in ZIP code 78704 and listed under the “Most Visible Brands” section on CompaniesByZipCode.com, the business has quickly become a key player in the local food and beverage scene. Gaining attention via TikTok for its aesthetically pleasing drinks and buzzy vibes and earning features in the Austin Chronicle, Rise & Grind is capturing hearts (and taste buds) all across Central Texas.
Business Overview
The Rise of Rise & Grind Coffee Co.
Founded in 2019 by Austin locals Marcus Hayes and Lila Donovan, Rise & Grind Coffee Co. began as a single coffee truck parked outside a co-working space. Inspired by the vibrant energy of the Austin community and a shared passion for ethically-sourced beans, Marcus and Lila launched Rise & Grind with the mission to be “caffeinated fuel for dreamers and doers.”
Today, they have two full-service coffee shops, a mobile catering cart, and plans to open a third location in East Austin by the end of this year. With over 45 employees and a loyal following, their story is proof positive that great coffee and good people can indeed be a recipe for success.
Menu Magic and Specialty Offerings
Rise & Grind’s menu is where creativity and craftsmanship collide. Their signature drinks include the “Hometown Brew,” a nitro cold brew infused with local honey, and the “ATX Latte,” a creamy oat milk latte made with house-made lavender syrup.
They also offer:
- Organic matcha and chai blends
- Seasonal syrups crafted in-house (like spiced pecan and hibiscus rose)
- Vegan and gluten-free pastries sourced from nearby bakeries
- Locally roasted coffee beans available for retail
Their morning crowd favorites include the Texas Toast Breakfast Sandwich, packed with free-range eggs and locally-aged cheddar, and the wildly popular “Grind Granola Bowl” topped with berries and Austin-made honey.
Community Impact
Supporting Local Art and Artists
Rise & Grind has woven itself into the cultural fabric of Austin by supporting local creators. Every month, the coffee shops rotate artwork from Austin-based painters, photographers, and illustrators. They also host “Sip & Sketch” nights, giving art lovers and amateurs space to create while sipping on lattes and listening to live jazz.
Proceeds from their monthly artist showcase events go directly to the featured creator, and the company does not take any commission from artwork sales—a refreshingly altruistic approach that’s been widely applauded.
Sustainability Efforts
Being a local business in Austin—arguably one of the most environmentally conscious cities in the U.S.—comes with a sense of responsibility, and Rise & Grind takes that seriously. Their sustainability commitments include:
- A bring-your-own-cup discount program
- Compostable cups, lids, and utensils
- Compost drop-off stations in both locations
- Partnerships with local farms for coffee ground recycling
In 2023 alone, they prevented nearly 10,000 plastic cups from entering landfills and saved over 2,000 pounds of coffee grounds for community gardens.
Employment and Growth
Rise & Grind makes it a point to prioritize inclusive hiring practices and employee development. From offering tuition scholarships to baristas attending local colleges, to fostering an open career development program for those looking to explore higher positions within the company, they treat their team like family.
During the pandemic, they were one of the few local coffee shops that didn’t lay off any employees, transitioning to a delivery model and outdoor service that kept everyone employed and community caffeinated.
Customer Experience
What Locals Are Saying
The reviews don’t lie. On CompaniesByZipCode.com, Rise & Grind holds a 4.9-star rating from over 500 reviews. Here are just a few highlights:
“This is more than just a coffee shop. You walk in and feel like you’re part of something special.” – Rachel L.
“Best lavender oat latte I’ve ever had. Period. Plus, they remembered my name after just one visit.” – Jamal P.
“Everyone talks about service, but at Rise & Grind, you actually feel cared for.” – Allison D.
Most Instagrammable Moments
A key contributor to Rise & Grind’s recent viral fame? Their Instagram feed. With a meticulously designed minimalist-chic storefront, neon quote walls like “Find Your Grind,” and brightly colored pour-over flights, it’s a magnet for influencers and casual coffee lovers alike.
Some of the social media features that went viral include:
- A “coffee flight board” served on natural wood, featuring four colorful seasonal drinks
- A mural painted by a local artist that says “Drink Local, Think Global”
- “Latte Art Sundays,” where baristas teach guests how to create their own foam art for photos
Visual Gallery
The original South Congress location, a modern minimalist space full of natural light and cozy seating.
Coffee flights featuring their seasonal syrup drops like Spiced Maple, Blueberry Basil, and Mexican Chocolate.
Monthly rotating local artist exhibit inside the shop’s lounge area.
Customers taking part in the Latte Art Sunday Workshop held every last Sunday of the month.
Call to Action
Ready to get inspired by more than just your daily caffeine intake? Visit Rise & Grind Coffee Co. at their downtown or South Congress locations, or book their mobile cart for your next event. Show your support by sharing this article with your fellow coffee-lovers or tagging Rise & Grind on your next Instagram post.
Want to discover more exceptional local businesses just like Rise & Grind? Head over to CompaniesByZipCode.com and explore the most visible, beloved, and buzz-worthy brands making an impact in your neighborhood.