When thinking about specialty coffee shops in the Central Valley, only a few places come to mind. Which is unfortunate given the popularity and increasing number of specialty coffee shops emerging over the years since “third wave’s” resurgence in more mainstream consumer interest. Some shops have come and gone, but few pull it off as well, and with as much success, than Austin’s Coffee Crafters located in Ripon, California. This overwhelmingly charming, schoolhouse themed coffee shop is right in between Manteca, CA and Modesto, CA and conveniently a short drive away from our house.

Abounding in small details, knick-knacks, and literal old school(house) decor, you can tell that incredible thought was put into creating and curating the wonderful space and charm that Austin’s holds so well. An extremely kid and pet friendly place, it makes it the perfect location to visit if your objective is to catch up on some work, hang out with friends and family, or to take your crush/loved one to a prime coffee date spot. There’s also plenty of seating either inside or outside. To sweeten the pot, if you can’t make it in, they even have drive-thru service available for coffee & food on the go!

If you’re not in the mood for coffee, there’s also a pretty wide selection of non-coffee related beverages to choose from. My personal favorite has been a lavender infused lemonade called the Schoolhouse Julep and the South African Sunset loose-leaf tea. All baked goods are made in-house and sandwiches are offered to those craving a bit more than just scones and bagels.

So what’s behind the bar? The baristas are serving up Counter Culture Coffee, a roasting company located in North Carolina with a long standing and great reputation within the coffee community. Counter Culture was first established in 1995 by Brett Smith and Fred Houk with a focus of relentless coffee perfection dedicated to real social, environmental, and fiscal sustainability. Along with a great moral standing, the coffee itself is well developed and equally delicious.

Although Austin’s current selection of whole beans for sale include a limited release offering, dark roast, and light roast, my personal favorite from Counter Culture Coffee are some of the single origin coffees they produce throughout the year. Some of which are beautifully unique and absolutely jaw-dropping. More about the coffee can be found here: https://counterculturecoffee.com/

Sporting a La Marzocco Linea paired with a Simonelli Mythos Grinder and knowledgeable staff, espresso-based beverages come out consistently tasty. All syrups are made in-house, and it really does feel like you’re walking into someone’s warm cozy home for coffee, if not an old fashioned schoolhouse. It’s a place I can see becoming a central hub for the neighborhood and a shop that will make a lasting impression on the Central Valley as a whole. Ripon and the surrounding cities are so fortunate to have the quality of service and coffee that Austin’s has done so well in creating.

Owners Christy (Kristy?) and Alexis have written this important note behind the namesake of “Austin’s.”
Below is taken from their website:

“The inspiration behind Austin's Coffee Crafters was less of a dream & more of a realization that life in itself is messy. We envisioned living a tragic free life, but the reality of that came crashing down on May 15, 2017. After the painful loss of a family member at the age of 15, we found solace in good food, community & simplicity. Austin, known as “Smiley” by many of his friends, had a huge heart for his family & friends. He was a very loyal friend to many. More than anything in the world, he loved hanging out & being there for others. In memory of Austin, we’ve created Austin’s Coffee Crafters as a place to celebrate the simplicity of everyday life, good eats, good coffee & great company…”

Austin’s Coffee Crafters have done exactly what they set out to do. It celebrates the simplicity of life with the bonus of great food, great coffee surrounded by even greater company. More importantly, the relationships that are being nurtured here are creating smiles throughout the Central Valley. If you have not been yet, don’t miss out. It will definitely be worth your time to visit this coffee shop. Hours of operation and full drink menu posted below.

AUSTIN’S COFFEE CRAFTERS
HOURS OF OPERATION:
MON-FRI 6AM-4PM
SAT-SUN 7AM-3PM