by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
San Marco’s newest business is more than just a place to get a hot cup of joe. For its owner, it’s a dream come true.
The Uncommon Grounds Coffee Company, opened a week ago.
Owner Diane Lee, a former paralegal downtown, said she’s wanted to open a coffee shop for years and her menu items include various coffee drinks, hot chocolate, pastries, bagels and a soup of the day.
“We offer a little bit of everything,” Lee said. “Once we get into a routine we may start serving salads and maybe sandwiches, too.”
Located on the square in San Marco, Lee said she modeled the store after her favorite Colorado and European-based Cafes.
“I’ve been to Europe several times and if you’ve been there, you know how the little coffee shops are,” Lee said. “They’re relaxing neighborhood spots where you can go and instantly feel comfortable and get a great cup of coffee.”
Uncommon Grounds is open Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m. and an hour later on weekends.
“That’s one thing I tell people when they ask us what makes us unique,” Lee said. “Aside from not being a franchise, I tell them we’ll stay open as late as we can.”
That kind of attitude and the reasonable prices — most drinks cost much less than anything on the Starbucks menu — has helped Uncommon Grounds attract an ever-increasing customer base.
“It gets better everyday,” said Geoff Henry, Lee’s son, who is helping out at the store along with her other children, Damon and Stephanie. “We’ve haven’t started advertising yet, but the word-of-mouth support we’re getting is really helping out.”
Uncommon Grounds’ grand opening is today and, to celebrate the occasion, Lee said there will be live music and plenty of good coffee to go around.
“We’re very excited to be here,” she said. “It was a lot of hard work, but it’s definitly worth it.”