By: Maia Wintrob
Since its doors opened in 2003, Mochas and Javas coffee shop
has offered San Marcos resident’s freshly roasted beans with the goal of
connecting the local community while serving fresh drinks and locally sourced food
by avoid serving high-fructose corn syrup.
As its ten-year anniversary approaches in February, the
small coffee shop continues to buzz with customers. Mochas and Javas have been
doing exceptionally well the past ten years by expanding to three total
locations in the San Marcos area.
“I’ve heard really good things about this place from students
at Texas State,” said Leah Kinstler, a 21-year-old criminal justice major.
“This is my first time here and the drinks and food are great so far!”
Indeed, Mochas and Javas have loyal followers who are often
greeted by name at the door.
“I’ve been coming here since I started at Texas State,” said
Brittany Lesion, a 21-year old electronic media major. “My go to is the vanilla
latte with an extra shot.”
In addition to beverages, the menu also includes a variety
of sandwiches, baked goods and snacks. Daniel Taki, a 25-year-old electrical
engineering major, raved about the parfaits he purchases every time he frequents
Mochas and Javas to study.
19-year-old employee Anna Preseren said her decision to work
at Mochas and Javas was based on the desire to work for a place she could be
proud of. She said that Mochas and Javas supports the community and local
charities. The business looks forward to expanding their idea beyond San
Marcos.
The coffee shops success may be partially attributed to how
well the menu items fit the desires of San Marcos residents.
While Mochas and Javas decision to stop providing frequent
buyer stamp cards that allowed customers to get a free drink after their ninth
visit. Customer Leison hasn’t taken the change lightly.
“They used to have a punch card, and they don’t do that
anymore so that’s a little disappointing,” said Brittany Lesion.
However, Mochas and Javas now features a newer rewards card
program that allows customers to receive 10% back when they add $30 dollars to
their card. The card also gives 5% back on every purchase
over $1.50, and a customer is able to receive $3 dollars back after every ninth
visit in a month.
In addition to the rewards program change, Mochas and Javas
does close slightly early compared to its competitor coffee shops in the
surrounding San Marcos area.
“It only stays open till 9 p.m. so it’s kind of early for me, I
wish they stayed open later cause I like to study late,” said Daniel Taki.
Mochas and Javas is home to a vast majority of Texas State
students. Whether a customer want to linger over a latte with a friend or grab
a quick cup of java to go, the coffee shop is known for their atmosphere, their
food, and of course, their freshly brewed coffee and tea.
 |
| Photo Credit: Maia Wintrob |
