Grounds for Celebration
National Grind, a coffee & tea shop located in the heart of Ellwood City (literally and figuratively), has become a staple in the town’s morning and lunchtime rituals. Signs by Sam had the privilege of installing their main ID sign this past Fall (click here for the video), when they moved to the beautiful corner of Lawrence Avenue and 5th Street; they are conveniently located to start a fun day full of shopping at Venezie Sporting Goods, ice cream from Sweet Caroline’s, and lunch at Breaking Bread.
Life Happens, Coffee Helps
Six years ago, a Pittsburgh sous chef by the name of Bob Rivers quit his job in search of something more fulfilling. While conjuring up ideas of starting his own business, Ellwood City was not on the original brainstorming list in terms of location. However, by the suggestion of his wife Jackie, an Ellwood native, they started to consider the possibilities this town had to offer; everything fell into place after that. Aren’t we glad the woman is always right?!
For those of you that may not know, National Grind specializes in small batch, hand roasted coffee, hand blended tea, and house made flavorings. “All of our produces are sourced as local as possible, and as small business supportive as possible,” Bob tells us. Everything from the milk to the mugs are supplied from local vendors or are house made. Every drink is made to order when you come in. While the National Grind team may be small – consisting of Bob & Jackie, along with Elisibeth Lordi and Stephanie Ruby – their barista skills are mighty! Coffee and tea are two things that can dictate how you take on the day, and it is National Grind’s mission to make sure that this inexpensive luxury does you good day in and day out. So whether you stop in for their most popular Ellwoodian Latte or a quick grab-and-go food item, you are sure to leave with a quality product and a smile.
When asked what they love most about starting their own business, it is clear that Bob & Jackie find joy in getting to know people and having the chance to serve them. They also deeply enjoy the freedom of including their kids in their time at work; mutually, customers have grown fond of the family and seeing their boys grow up. Over time, the couple has had the privilege of seeing their customers get married or give birth, mourned with those who lost loved ones, or simply put – grow up. They’ve heard countless stories and have had immeasurable experiences over the years. Their hope for the shop is to continue to deliver high quality service and product in Ellwood City, as well as the possibility of expanding into another area. They are also working on some cool food ideas that will be debuting soon!!!
It’s All in the Details
Not only does National Grind have an overall inviting atmosphere, but all the little details of their shop are eye catching and memorable. Everything from an old work apron from Lockbolt Fasting to a $10 bill that was printed in Ellwood City to local artwork has people stopping to appreciate a little more of our small town. Ever wonder how they got their name?
The coolest thing I think is our name itself, “National Grind.” When I was researching Ellwood City, there was a place called The National Cafeteria (along with National Tube, etc.). I loved “the National,” but upon some more research I found out it was a pretty popular band, so I added “grind” at the end of it – to show a verbal piece of coffee, if you will, and the daily grind we all go through, and coffee and tea help us get through it. ~ Bob
What Else Is Brewing?
When they are not at the shop, Bob & Jackie are equally full of life and enjoying the simple things. Bob loves hanging out with their two boys, Robert and Erik, and is also an avid hockey fan, playing in an adult ice hockey league. Jackie loves to bake and going to the beach; exploring small towns, shops and restaurants are also a frequent occurrence for them.
Every day we chug along in our routines but one common ground we will always have with each other is knowing that we can change our day, attitude, and outlook in the blink of an eye….or with a coffee order.
National Grind Coffee & Tea Shop
435 Lawrence Avenue
Ellwood City, PA 16117
(412) 860-0752
Email: national.grind.coffee@gmail.com
Hours:
Mon – Fri: 7am-6pm
Sat: 8am-3pm
Sun: Closed
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Like them on Facebook: @nationalgrind
Follow on Instagram: @national_grind
