Let me preface this story with a bold and honest statement:
I am not a coffee person.
I’m one of those who thoroughly enjoys the aroma of fresh coffee, but that’s all. When visiting a coffeehouse, I’m the girl staring in confusion and panic at the menu, frantically searching for an item that doesn’t contain coffee. I don’t know the difference between a latte and an espresso. Foam, or milk, or something.
That being said, I had a lovely time (out of my element) with the new owners of Cappuccino Corner recently.
Kim Marcotte is originally from right up the road in Inola, but has been in Claremore for the past 24 years. She spent nine years in retail, managing Bath & Body Works (now there’s a place that smells great!), then spent time as a manager at the Claremore Starbucks. Remember that? I love the fact that Claremore can’t handle corporate stores as popular as Starbucks or Java Dave’s, but has no problem supporting a local shop like Cappuccino Corner.
Anyway.
Cappuccino Corner was already established, and the owner, John Williams, knew that Kim would be a great owner. They tossed around the idea for a while, but the time wasn’t right. Fast-forward a few years. And back in October 2014, Kim took the leap into coffeehouse ownership, alongside her middle son, Colton. (Kim is the proud mom of three wonderful boys, Keenin, Colton and Corbin. She’s even got three cute grandkids, thanks to Keenin and his wife, Claire.)
Colton may be in his early 20s, but he’s no stranger to the business world. Before he was old enough to vote (and possibly shave), he bought a house with his younger brother, Corbin. Thanks to summers spent working at Lowe’s, the boys had learned plenty about home renovation. They gutted the house, completely remodeled it, and sold it for a hefty profit. Marcotte Brothers LLC has been quite successful in the years since that first project. Corbin is now a realtor, because who better to sell a Marcotte Brothers home than a Marcotte brother?
With Colton’s business savvy and Kim’s experience, the two are full of excitement and new ideas to take Cappuccino Corner to the next level. In their first few months of ownership, they have already done extensive redecorating, adding menu boards and tables crafted from a local barn. Plenty of repainting has gone on, and several pieces of new equipment have been added to make the life of a barista easier. They’ve added a drive-thru bell. (Only coffee shop in town with a drive-thru!) The menu has been revamped, and a new logo is in the works. Local art is displayed on the walls and is available for purchase.
The feel of the improved space is comfortable, rustic, almost “farmhouse with an edge.” Soothing neutral colors and fabrics like burlap enhance the look, which is rounded out with Mason jars and plenty of wood and metal.
Cappuccino Corner serves breakfast and lunch all day. Breakfast items include burritos, sandwiches, muffins and bagels. Lunch options consist of a variety of sandwiches like the reuben, grilled cheese, club or the bestseller: homemade chicken salad. They have a new Chicken Chipotle sandwich that sounds divine. Customers can choose from several breads, such as a croissant, sourdough, or wheat berry. Each day, a soup special is available, with choices like potato, broccoli & cheese, chicken & wild rice or homemade tomato. The most popular lunch item is the “Lunchbox”, which includes a sandwich (whole or half), chips, cookie and drink. You can get the whole shebang for $7.79, or the half sandwich option for just $5.39. If you’ve got an urge for something sweet, Cappuccino Corner sells chocolate-covered espresso beans, cinnamon rolls, cookies and espresso brownies.
For all you coffee folks out there, they also serve plenty of hot drinks. I already admitted I know nothing about them, but I’ll do my best. It seems there are two ways to make fancy coffee, “French press” and “pour over.” Cappuccino Corner has both. The menu includes lattes, cappuccinos (obviously) and espressos. They offer steamers and hot chocolate for people like me, as well as hot tea. (English breakfast, Darjeeling, Earl Grey, chamomile…all your favorites!) Other popular choices are Italian cream sodas and fruit smoothies. Or you can always buy a bottle of water or a chocolate milk. Your call.
Cappuccino Corner has something to offer everyone. Two meeting rooms are available for rent for any kind of event at a very reasonable price. If you’ve got a large group to feed, call up Kim, Colton and crew and they can fix up a mean sandwich platter. They’ll even deliver, if necessary. Free WiFi is available, so it’s a great place to lounge, study and enjoy some coffee. RSU students receive a 10% discount all the time. If you’re a creative soul and want to be heard, an open mic night is held once a month.
Cappuccino Corner is open Monday – Friday from 6:30a – 9p. On Saturdays, shop hours are 8a – 8p. Closed on Sundays. To keep up with all the happenings, follow them on Facebook. The shop is located at 900 E. Will Rogers, Suite I. That’s the shopping center across from the old Kum & Go near the turnpike gate.
Kim and Colton are working hard to make Cappuccino Corner the best coffee house in the world. If you haven’t been, it’s time to check it out. If it’s been a while, it’s definitely time to stop by and see the wonderful changes. Grab yourself a handful of chocolate-covered espresso beans, find a seat on the couch, and enjoy the company.
Keep it local, Claremore.
-MCM Staffer Ashley,
who is not a coffee person,
but enjoys a good cup of cocoa
