Looking for a new coffee spot? A trip to Palatka Coffee Company is the ideal way to unwind, meet up with friends, or even work on your schoolwork. It is a family-owned and operated business.
In February 2020, Aashton Hodge opened a coffee shop with his wife Lindsey after owning Tangles Hair Salon. Aashton and Lindsey Hodge are well known in the community as business owners, so it’s no surprise that their clientele supported the new venture.
Whether you want to order online or in person at Palatka Coffee Company, you’ll have the choice of taking it to go or sitting down in the store.
Upon entering the shop, you’ll find the coffee bar where you can order and choose between the two seating areas. The left side is the main area for making coffee and sitting. On the right side, there are additional seating areas and a coffee bar in case of an emergency. The right side could be rented out for events such as baby showers, birthdays, and weddings, according to Aashton.
Palatka Coffee Company’s espresso machine.
Photo by Samantha Stephenson
Next to the coffee bar will be a selection of breakfast options. Ashton makes fresh scones every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Ben Hodge, owner of the Lunchbox at Saint Johns River State College, sells breakfast burritos and sandwiches on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Various beverages are available, including espresso, cold brew, drip coffee, lattes, black or green tea, Earl Gray tea, and happy tea. The drinks are served iced or hot.
“I think I would recommend the PCC (latte with vanilla and caramel) or the Four Winds (latte with sea salt, toffee, caramel, and coconut),” Ian Adkins, customer.
Due to Aashton’s desire for fresh, weekly roasted beans, Palatka Coffee Company uses Kookaburra coffee beans from St. Augustine. Alternatively, the beans can be purchased separately from the shop at retail prices.
A variety of coffee syrups. Photo by Samantha Stephenson
“I think my favorite thing about working at the coffee shop is getting to know all the people and making friends with everybody, knowing everybody by name, and remembering orders,” Melinda Itterly said. She is one of two full-time employees at the shop, and she has been working for Aashton for the past two years.
Whether you’re stopping through Palatka or planning a trip, be sure to check out Palatka Coffee Company. Try a customer favorite or tell an employee what you’re craving, and they’ll be happy to assist. It’s important to remember that when you support smaller shops, you’re able to speak with an employee who truly cares about what they’re doing.