New coffee shop offers love: Manager Ellen Seta steps behind the counter on an early autumn morning to serve locals and visitors. PHOTO BY OMAYRA ACEVEDO[/caption]
Whether it’s tea or coffee, in many households, it has become part of daily life. For some, it becomes part of a morning work commute, a treat after church, or a stop during a Rocky Mountain adventure.
Sometimes, however, when you find yourself out in the middle of nowhere, it’s challenging to find a warm cup of delicious coffee. At least one might think it could be a challenge. Just off the scenic highway, heading into Estes Park on CO-7, mere steps from the beautiful St. Catherine’s Chapel is Tahosa Coffee House.
Owned by Camp St. Malo, Tahosa Coffee House is a non-profit organization serving the towns of Allenspark, Estes Park, Lyons, and many seasonal visitors. Espresso, mocha, cappuccino, Americano, cortado, tea, and hot chocolate have been warming bellies at Tahosa since July 1, 2022. Various flavors and bites can be enjoyed at the delightful coffee house or to go.
The inspiration for starting the coffee house came from Camp St. Malo being such a picturesque and peaceful property, “where people from across the country and world stop to visit the Chapel on the Rock, explore the property, and take some time to unplug, rest, and enjoy a quality beverage,” shares Manager Ellen Seta.
Seta was also the lead for the coffee house’s development and physical/legal completion. Her post-college background consists of mission work, outdoor education, and a little bit of barista work, “this project was my first experience in the business.”
“Furthermore, as a Catholic ministry, we hope our visitors of various faiths and backgrounds can encounter love and welcome through our friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere.”
The breathtaking views from and around Tahosa include St. Catherine’s Chapel, beautiful Stations of the Cross trail, and a magnificent view of the 13,911 feet Mt. Meeker. One of the most notable aspects of Tahosa Coffee House is that it’s the only place to get coffee within a 10-mile radius.
Seta also shares, “Additionally, we see the coffee house as a part of the greater experience of the Camp St. Malo property, where many have experienced God in a variety of ways.” Interacting with people from across the street to people from across the globe is part of what all the baristas enjoy. “It’s such a joy to hear their stories and invite them into our cozy little space.”
Baristas at Tahosa Coffee House will be serving coffee, tea, and treats during all four seasons. With enthusiasm, Seta says, “We will be open YEAR-ROUND - so please, locals, come and visit us!”
As with most new businesses, Tahosa is working to grow in quality and acknowledges that the process is a steady one. The pandemic slowed some of the processes down and stalled opening for a little while, but luckily, Tahosa Coffee House is in full swing.
In the near future, Tahosa Coffee House hopes to become a destination stopping point for families and friends on vacation as well as a coffee “home” for locals.
Sometimes, the scent of a warm beverage is part of the process of creating memories, regardless if you’re home or stopping by for the first time.
Tahosa Coffee House is located at 10758 CO-7, Allenspark, Colorado 80510. To learn more about Tahosa Coffee House visit: https://tahosacoffee.com/ or find them on social media at: https://www.facebook.com/campstmalo.
