Restaurants News & Trends

Coffee chain with a cult following coming to Lexington; Details on where, when

A new-to-Kentucky coffee chain, as famous for its cult following as its drinks, is coming to Lexington.

Dutch Bros Coffee is planning to open its first Bluegrass store at 234 E. New Circle in the former Northside Sonic location next to Walgreens.

The renovated property is expected open next year, according to the Oregon-based company.

It will have access to Bryan Avenue through the Walgreen’s lot next door as well as New Circle Road.

What is a Dutch Bros Coffee?

It’s a drive-thru coffee West coast chain, headquartered in Grants Pass, Ore., that was founded in 1992 by brothers Dane and Travis Boersma. They built a passionate following among coffee drinkers who need a fix from the “broistas” who make their drinks. The chain has now expanded to more than 500 locations in 13 states.

And the menu has expanded too. Besides its proprietary coffee blend, they also sell specialty coffees, smoothies, freezes, teas, their Dutch Bros Blue Rebel energy drink and nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee, according to the company.

Dutch Bros drive-thru coffee is coming to Lexington. The Oregon-based chain has a cult following for its coffee and its friendly “broistas.”
Dutch Bros drive-thru coffee is coming to Lexington. The Oregon-based chain has a cult following for its coffee and its friendly “broistas.” Provided

What makes Dutch Bros special?

Dutch Bros also focuses on giving back to communities, with fundraisers dedicated to fighting food insecurity, to non-profit local kids organizations and to finding a cure for ALS.

Through its Dutch Bros Foundation and local franchisees, the company donates several million dollars to causes across the country each year, Dutch Bros said.

The chain also is known for its workers, its positive vibes and great service. In 2016 a photo taken at a Vancouver location went viral after someone noticed employees comforting a woman in prayer in the car ahead.

A “broista” takes an order at a Dutch Bros Coffee drive-thru, where passionate fans line up for coffee.
A “broista” takes an order at a Dutch Bros Coffee drive-thru, where passionate fans line up for coffee. Provided

Aren’t we getting another coffee chain?

Scooter’s Coffee, a drive-thru national chain founded in Nebraska, is opening its first Central Kentucky spot in Winchester, with plans for five locations in the Lexington, Richmond and Georgetown area.

No word on where the Lexington locations of Scooter’s will be yet.

Oregon-based Dutch Bros Coffee plans to open its first Kentucky location in Lexington.
Oregon-based Dutch Bros Coffee plans to open its first Kentucky location in Lexington. Provided
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Janet Patton
Lexington Herald-Leader
Janet Patton covers restaurants, bars, food and bourbon for the Herald-Leader. She is an award-winning business reporter who also has covered agriculture, gambling, horses and hemp. Support my work with a digital subscription
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