Koin Coffee, which just celebrated their 1-year anniversary, has built a unique coffee shop experience in the Shadelands Business Park.
Co-owners Tristyn Johnson and Donna Jean (DJ) Allen wanted to build a business together after meeting on a mission trip to Mexico where they built houses for people in need. Tristyn says, “We wanted to serve the best coffee in a place that feels like a community.”
There is a large sitting area where groups gather, from moms and toddlers, to book groups, and faith groups. They also offer outdoor seating and have a large indoor space. It’s a popular destination on Saturdays for shoppers at the Farmers’ Market as they are located near the parking lot at 325 N. Wiget Lane.
In addition to craft coffee, they also have teas, including a hibiscus tea that they make in house. All of their flavored syrups are also made in house. This month they are featuring Pumpkin Spice and Salted Maple.
Food items include several kinds of toasts (from avocado to peanut butter and banana), muffins, and coffee cake. And a new partnership with Model Bakery in downtown Walnut Creek has expanded the menu to include some of their craft pastries. At lunch time, they offer sandwiches as well.
Koin is a shortened version of the word Koinonia, which is a Greek word that means fellowship, sharing, or partnership in Christianity. This is the guiding principle for Tristyn and DJ. “We want to know our customers and create a space where people can come together. We don’t work with Grub Hub or Door Dash because we want to be face to face with our customers. We know many of our customers and know what drinks they like to order.”
They are open 7-2 every day. They also offer a space for local vendors to sell their hand-crafted products like candles, honey, books, etc. During off hours they rent out the space for private events.
If you’re looking for a more personal coffee shop that is based on prioritizing the best coffee with a sense of community, try Koin. Tristyn adds, “We have had huge support from this community, from Shadelands workers, people walking the trails or going to doctor appointments, our church community, and shoppers at the Farmers’ Market. We feel blessed to be part of this community.”
By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991