Background
Doghouse Espresso was created and opened for business in August of 2006. We own a historic turn of the century building in downtown Delta, Colorado and cater to a loyal local customer base. We offer traditional espresso based drinks , brew coffee and a few pastries and chocolates. Our knowledgeable staff also produces some fine latte art, so come and check it out. We are also connected to our sister business; "Fat Cat Pottery", which is a paint your own pottery place. Dogs and Cats rule...
Keys to Success
We are fanatical about the quality of our coffee and our drinks. Several of our baristas are skilled at latte art and creating new signature drinks. We know our regular customers by name and keep humor high on our list of positive attributes. We are also knowledgeable about the history of coffee and it's impact on society. We serve only Organic/Fair Trade/Shade grown coffees supplied by our excellent roasters at Grounds for Change from Poulsbo, Washington. We also support the Cafe Femenino project by donations and offer their excellent Peruvian Dark Roast coffee as our house dark roast.
Special Events
We feature a new local artist every 2 months on the Doghouse walls.
Target Customers
The basis of our business is 90% local clientèle with some tourist traffic in the summer. We are at a crossroads for North Fork Valley people going to and from Grand Junction and Montrose as well. Our client base is mostly the local workforce from professionals to tradesmen, retirees and local business people.
Challenges Faced
Our primary challenges so far have been getting the word out that we truly know what we are doing. Our area has a history of failed coffee shops due to poor quality and lack of knowledge in the specialty coffee industry. Since opening our doors we have had 3 other coffee shops open in our town. We took a pretty good hit at every opening but have bounced back each time due to our excellent drink quality and outstanding customer service. Having good baristas with a commitment to our business is a real bonus.
Where We're Headed
Doghouse Espresso's slogan is "Simply the best...doggone coffee" and that is our bottom line. To be known far and wide as the best. Consistent and dependable quality, always. Our website is not yet up and running, so that is a must do project for the coming year. As far as expansion goes, we would like to see a possible drive-thru Doghouse and maybe a mobile unit for local events.
Other Info
Our historic turn of the century building was built in 1900 and is known as the Hick building, the main doctor's office in town for 3 generations of Dr. Hicks. It still has it's original tin ceiling and leaded glass transom windows.
