With barley and beans, Maple Branch adds coffee to its craft mix

Image credits: Maple Branch Craft Brewery.

Maple Branch Craft Brewery of Fort Worth has branched out, literally, beyond the beer with the addition of a new coffee shop located at 2624 Whitmore St., right next door to the taproom. The company's Branch & Bean Coffee + Roastery offers coffee drinks made from house-roasted beans sourced from around the world, with house-made syrups and gelatos available as accompaniments.

According to Igor Stepczynski, marketing coordinator and brand ambassador for both ventures, the motivation to move into coffee is about expanding the craft experience for everyone who frequents Maple Branch.

"When customers come to Maple Branch, they can depend on us for quality beer and food made with the best ingredients and utmost care," says Stepczynski. "For Branch & Bean Coffee + Roastery, we wanted to provide the same standard by buying raw coffee beans, roasting them on site, and providing another way for people to enjoy something made with passion, craft and attention."

Plus, it's a way to further appeal to Maple Branch patrons of all ages who come to the brewery, but aren't drinking beer.

"We pride ourselves for having a wide demographic of customers throughout the day - work professionals, families with children, etc.," adds Stepczynski. "Some of them love our environment but would simply prefer something non-alcoholic. Providing an elevated coffee experience is our way to make sure there is something for everyone at any time of day!"

On that note, while the taproom has lunch and dinner service, early hours at the coffee shop call for pastries and breakfast items. Along those lines, Branch & Bean offers a variety of morning-type fare like breakfast tacos, egg bites and brioches, mini waffles, protein boxes and yogurt, to go along with a selection of bagels, coffee cakes, scones, muffins and more.

Oh, and just so you don't forget about the beer...yes, some of those freshly-roasted beans mentioned beforehand will make their way into the brewhouse at Maple Branch. One such beer, a coconut coffee porter called Yule Fuel is on tap now, while a coffee blonde ale is in the works as well.

As for when to visit, Branch & Bean Coffee + Roastery is open from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Tuesday-Sunday. The shop is currently operating in a soft opening phase as it works towards a grand opening set for Saturday, September 6.