The New Coffee Shop You Didn’t Know You Needed

story by Lauren Morris, photos by  @lightupmediaco

There’s a brand-new coffee shop nestled conveniently in midtown Lake Charles that brings much more to the table than your standard latte and warmed-over breakfast sandwich. Their menu is chock-a-block full, and the items – reimagined versions of classics you know and love – will leave you wondering how you’ll choose just one. Owners Joshua and Taylor Smith and Shadi and Nour Abrusley have come together to bring a unique coffee experience to Lake Charles.

In 2019, the Smiths started tossing around ideas of a coffee shop that Lake Charles had yet to see. They wanted it to be elevated and something that would bring back the feel that Chez Caffe brought when it was established in the same location back in 1997. They landed on the name “Coffee:30” to send the message to patrons that “no matter what time it is, it’s coffee time,” says owner Joshua Smith. “Coffee is for any time of the day; any time you need it or want it.”

Featuring menu items with names like “Omel-late for Work” and “Avocado-Go Toast,” it’s obvious the four-person Coffee:30 team set out to be unforgettable. The care and attention put into every detail of this spot is at the heart of what makes it unique. On your first visit, you’ll notice Coffee:30’s beautiful interior. “Taylor is the one with the special touch for interior design. She took inspiration from all over to create the look we have here,” said Smith. The dark, moody hues and ornate touches make for a satisfying sense of elevated coziness and a dose of New Orleans. Even the music is carefully curated to set the mood. This place intends to give you an experience. 

Open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Coffee:30 offers both breakfast and lunch options. Their beignets are made fresh daily and are must-haves. You can order them by the dozen if you want to brighten the mood at the office. Craving beignets at lunch? Grab a “Coffee:30 Beignet Burger.” The “Chicken Lake Charles” is the chicken-and-biscuit sandwich of your dreams. Or try something on the lighter side with the “Wake Up” breakfast sandwich: egg whites, avocado spread, spinach, mozzarella, and turkey bacon on an English muffin. They pride themselves on their High Noon Wagyu Burger and Parmesan Truffle Fries – items you can’t find just anywhere. “We aimed to create memorable food and drinks for the area,” said Smith. Whether you’re looking for a unique breakfast or a lunch that far surpasses your everyday slapped-together sandwich, Coffee:30 has it. 

When it comes to the “joe,” Coffee:30 offers all your favorites like cappuccinos, cafe au laits, and lattes. Reve Coffee Roasters in Lafayette created custom blends just for them. Want a boost with a sweet spin? Try their Affogato – a shot of espresso poured over two scoops of vanilla ice cream, finished with a caramel/chocolate drizzle. The perfect union of coffee and dessert. For your best fall vibe, ask for the Pumpkin Pie Latte. You won’t regret it. 

This hot new spot is sure to become a Lake Charles staple, not only for its high-quality coffee options, but for the one-of-a-kind breakfast and lunch items, ambiance, and overall experience it’s bringing to the local dining game. Stop in and see for yourself at 127 W. College St., Lake Charles.