Geist Coffee Company owner Jeremy Balch and his family love coffee. They have spent many family vacations visiting coffee shops together, and many more hours connecting with friends over a cup of coffee. So, when they had an opportunity to buy a coffeehouse of their own, it seemed meant to be.
Balch started Geist Coffee in January 2018 after taking over Mama Bears off Brooks School Road and Fall Creek Road in the Geist District.
It’s a family affair at this craft coffeehouse. Balch manages the business but can often be found behind the counter taking orders and prepping drinks alongside his team. His wife bakes pastries, and his son and daughter work at the shop weekly while attending college locally. This sense of family extends to customers as well.
“We think of ourselves as Geist’s neighborhood coffeehouse, and we want people to feel like they are part of a community when they visit,” said Jeremy. “We love having a close relationship with our customers. They’ve become our family.”
Community is at the core of Geist Coffee, and Balch is passionate about supporting other local businesses as well. Coffee beans are supplied by Hubbard & Cravens, and donuts are served daily from Sunrise Bakery in Fortville. Broad Ripple Chips were recently added to the menu.
Next to Balch’s dedication to community is his dedication to serving great coffee. The espresso is one of the most popular menu items. Balch also loves the cold brew, which is made in house.
“We focus on handcrafting everything,” said Balch. “We make sure every item is outstanding.” One of Balch’s favorite breakfast items, the Maple Bacon Breakfast Sandwich, is served on a toasted bagel of your choice with maple syrup poured over cheese, egg, and bacon. (Hint: Order this, it’s delicious!) Geist Coffee also serves lunch items, including soups, salads, and wraps.
The drink menu features seasonal specialties created by their staff members.
“Everyone is involved in designing recipes,” said Balch. “We make decisions as a team.” Customers can enjoy these handcrafted creations in the cozy, lodge-inspired interior of Geist Coffee. Balch describes the atmosphere as “a cabin by the lake” that honors the history of Mama Bears.
While he says he still has a long list of updates, Balch is happy with what his family has created in the past year, and the community friendships they’ve forged.