I vividly remember when Nisa came into the bank I worked at, and told us about the idea she had to start her own business. I was so excited for her, and asked what her
I vividly remember when Nisa came into the bank I worked at, and told us about the idea she had to start her own business. I was so excited for her, and asked what her business would be, she said “A coffee shop”. Oh, heck yes! I thought. I love small businesses, and I love coffee. I told her I would be anxiously awaiting news and updates on her progress.
Vision of love
A few months after she secured her business loan, I was attending a Downtown Partners event, saw her and asked about her businesses, and if she found a location. She told me it was actually downtown, so as we were walking back to our cars, she stopped in front of this unassuming and vacant store front, and said, “This is it!”
At first, I couldn’t see her vision, and I was a little hesitant about opening any business downtown, but I must admit that I was wrong. Currently, business in downtown Sioux City has been growing. Buildings are being converted to modern apartments, shops and boutiques are popping up, quaint diners and chic bistros serve visiting patrons, and now a small corner coffee shop is making a big impact.
Grand opening!
Wanting to show my support for her endeavor, I attended their grand opening, and it was a hit! Our downtown community and beyond came through to show support for this exciting new beginning. And now that it has been almost two years, a lot has changed aesthetically, but Hardline still remains a neighborhood favorite haunt for regulars passing by for their morning jolt.
Pairing up with other local businesses, Nisa and her team have partnered with various artists and even farmers to bring you the highest quality product, with some artistic flare. Along with selling t-shirts and jewelry, you can also buy their pre-packaged coffee grounds and organic teas. And finally, while you’re enjoying your cup of joy, check out their massive floor-to-ceiling collection of books.
Saving the best for last
I have yet to contribute to their take-one-leave-one library, but I love that I can come here, donate a book I no longer need, and pick up one I probably would never have read without Hardline’s influence. Plus, the inviting and cozy setting with their collection of paperbacks and hardcovers as the backdrop centerpiece looks like an image you’d come across in a high-end architecture magazine.
Coming from someone who has had coffee from multiple sources across many states, I can honestly say that I have saved the best for last. My coffee tour is done, but not my support for this talented crew. Currently, their Spring menu includes black cherry rosemary latte, a lemon poppyseed latte, and a white chocolate rose. And yes, I’ve tried all, and surprising myself, my favorite was the white chocolate rose. It encompassed the essence of Spring with its unique floral notes.
I plan to stop by as much as possible on my way to work, and try their seasonal menu, which is ever-changing. And since it is so close to my house, maybe this will be my new place to cozy up with my laptop and blog about the next Siouxland business.
Plan your visit
And finally, check out their website (http://hardlinecoffeeco.com/) and Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/hardlinecoffee). Their social media presence is unrivaled, in my opinion, and their daily posts are bright, cheerful and aesthetically pleasing. Again, it feels like this place should be featured in some posh magazine, but we, here in Sioux City, are privy to some of the best coffee in the Midwest.
611 5th St
Sioux City, Iowa 51101
Hours of Operation:
Mon – Fri: 7am to 3pm
Saturday: 8am to 3pm
Sunday: Closed