Communication Builds Our Community
Communication Builds Our Community
Shop Features Coffees, Teas and Other Beverages, Pastries and Fun
Although the summer doldrums would predict otherwise, downtown Lake Wales is buzzing over the opening of a popular new coffee shop, one of the newest businesses to open during the ongoing transformation of the area.
Family and friends gather for game nights at the Latte Lounge, one of the several different activities offered at the popular downtown gathering place.
Latte Lounge offers coffee beans sourced from a small business in Virginia, creating fresh and flavorful handcrafted beverages, along with a changing variety of cookies and pastries in a warm and inviting atmosphere, well stocked with new books by local authors.
It operates under the direction of Carolyn Owens and her husband, Matt Owens. The couple moved to Lake Wales from Mobile, AL three years ago and decided after operating a game shop in the downtown Arcade that Lake Wales really needed a "quiet place to hang out, without stress," Matt told Lake Wales News.
The shop at 229 East Stuart lies in the heart of the Arcade, accessible on foot from either Park or Stuart Avenues. The couple opened the shop in mid-April and are "really happy with the way things are moving along," Matt said.
Their menu includes a variety of hot and cold teas, Italian sodas, and even decaf options. For those who need an extra kick, liquid caffeine can be added to any drink of choice.
A cozy corner for conversation and relaxation features period furnishings and an original mural by local muralist Ocean Hughes.
"We offer adult recess, to get away from the adulting all the time, have a little break," Matt told Lake Wales News.
The space cultivates a "Fin de siècle" atmosphere of the late 19th and early 20th century in keeping with the historic architecture of the building. A cozy corner of the space features upholstered antique furnishings and a mural created by Lake Wales muralist Ocean Hughes based upon an old advertising poster..
Building personal relationships with customers is a formula for success. The Owens make it a habit to remember names and greet each customer personally. That touch is evident in every aspect of the shop, from the friendly service to the inviting atmosphere.
It's quickly become a vibrant community center with a full calendar of events. Every Tuesday night, patrons can test their knowledge at trivia night. Wednesday nights are reserved for Date Night, where couples can enjoy two drinks and two pastries for just $10. Fridays are all about family fun with board game nights that bring everyone together.
Co-owner Carolyn Hughes prepares coffee and tea specialties and fruit drinks at the handsome bar at Latte Lounge. The shop is open six days a week, closing on Mondays.
Other events include live music on most Fridays and Saturdays. Rylee Hux, a talented young musician, shows off her very relaxed soft finger-picking on acoustic guitar. On another night guests may enjoy the Arkansas Train Wreck, a duo that plays bluegrass.
"They play for an opportunity to be heard," Matt said, "like our local authors, giving those people some shelf space to get their works out there."
The shop is open from 2 PM to 9 PM Tuesday through Friday, 12 noon to 9 PM on Saturdays, and 12 noon to 8 PM on Sundays. They also offer online ordering for pickup orders through their website at LakeWalesLatteLounge.com.
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