Joe Mama’s coffee full of flavor

Published 9:52 am Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Joe Mama’s owners Melissa Stanicz, left, and Tabitha Gurley, prepare to down a shot of espresso. They use local coffee for their drinks. Daily Star photo/CRAIG HAUPERT

THREE OAKS — Joe Mama’s coffee house owners Tabitha Gurley and Melissa Stanisz are offering something unique with their coffee.

A side of personality.

It comes standard, and free of charge, with every cup.

“We are both really goofy and like to have a lot of fun,” said Gurley. “We hope people can have a little fun here too.”

Gurley and Stanisz have been best friends for a long time. They grew up near each other. Gurley is a 1997 graduate of Buchanan High School and Stanisz a ’97 grad of Galien High.

“We probably met at a party when we were younger and have been friends ever since,” Stanisz said.

Joe Mama’s, in Three Oaks, is the pair’s first business venture together. Located at 11 South Elm St., Joe Mama’s offers products you’d expect from a coffee house, such as espresso, cappuccino and tea drinks. It also offers a few things you wouldn’t expect, such as the Chuck Norris.

Named after the legendary actor, the Chuck Norris includes five shots of espresso, caramel, chocolate and a touch of milk. Customers can add a “roundhouse kick” of coffee to the drink if they prefer.

“People are drawn to it just because of the novelty of the name,” Stanisz said. “We’ve sold about 10 so far, but I don’t know if I’ll ever try it. I am not that brave.”

Joe Mama’s also offers fresh raw juice and desserts baked daily by Gurley.

“The cheese Danish has been described as to die for by more than one person,” Stanisz said.

The owners plan to add wraps, sandwiches, soups, salads and all-natural dog treats to the menu in the near future.

Joe Mama’s uses as many local products as possible. They get a lot of their coffee from Infusco Coffee Roasters, of Sawyer, and Paramount Coffee, of Lansing.

“We tried to make a conscious effort to stay local,” Stanisz said. “People seem to love (Infusco) coffee. They come in here and ask for it by name.”

Joe Mama’s will host a coffee cupping with Infusco Coffee Roasters from 5 to 7 p.m. April 21.

“People will really get a chance to experience the intricacies of the coffee at the cupping,” Stanisz said.

Information on upcoming events, specials and promotions can be found on Joe Mama’s Facebook page: facebook.com/JoeMamasJoe.

Joe Mama’s is open 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Joe Mama’s phone number is (269) 756-9111.