GREEN COVE SPRINGS - It’s hard to believe that one owner of Three Sisters Coffee Grounds was, at first, not a big fan of espresso.

For Christy Yoder, the bitter taste was an acquired one.

But, when she and her husband, Steve, moved to Oregon, they said they got a taste of something that surprisingly made the beverage nonetheless attractive. 

The taste wasn’t burnt or bitter but smooth and consistent. Gliding easily on their taste buds. 

From that moment on, the two got hooked. 

In an effort to recreate the coffee of their dreams for others, they are bringing that Western taste right here to Clay County.

“That’s how we fell in love with that,” Yoder said. “And then, having good customer service out there, everybody was always upbeat and welcoming. I really liked that vibe, so that’s what we were going for when we opened one here.” 

Yoder and her sister, Jen Smith, own and operate the little coffee shop on North Orange Avenue. 

And with Steve’s help, the three work to put their own spin on iced and hot brews. 

The Three Sisters Mocha, Cinnamon French Toast and Salted Brown Butter Toffee are some of their signature drinks, but the shop offers a variety of flavors. 

Additionally, they have many sweet treats. Some of them are Amish-made pastries, such as oatmeal cream pies, coffee cakes and whoopie pies.

But the twist lies in the coffee beans. Their coffee is a medium to dark roast with a West Coast taste. 

The organic beans contain no pesticides and are mold-free, presenting many health benefits. 

“Generally speaking, it’s better on people’s stomachs,” Steve said. “And easier for the digestive system.” 

Officially opening back in 2023, the shop began as a simple trailer. Yoder said she and her husband had always dreamed of opening a shop, and it worked perfectly. Traveling from spot to spot, they served coffee lovers from all over. 

In July, they moved to their current brick-and-mortar location.

The name “Three Sisters” derives from Yoder's desire to incorporate her two siblings, Jen and Tammy, into the venture. She said she wanted all three of them to be involved.

Yoder and Steve said that the main thing that sets them apart from many other coffee shops is the customer service they provide. 

Yoder said she has seen many past customers and an influx of new ones daily. 

For many, the shop is a great addition to the area. 

“People comment that ‘I just have more options,’” Steve said. “Or, it’s a breath of fresh air.” 

Three Sisters does have some plans for the future. The shop hopes to expand its sit-down area to the outside patio, creating more seating space for customers.

“We hope to maybe spruce that up and do some outdoor things once the weather gets a little bit cooler for people,” Steve said.

Additionally, with one of her sisters located in Ohio, Yoder said she also foresees that they may soon open one there. 

But for now, they are set on continuing to impact the local community and every customer who walks through their door.

“As long as people leave happier than what they were when they arrived, I think is a good goal,” Steve said.”Whether that’s just because the drinks are good, or the food’s good or the conversation’s good, it’s just a positive impact on their day.”