Grateful Coffee Co. has opened at 1370 Toronto Road in Springfield, and the owners say the name is intended to pay tribute to everyone who has helped them achieve their dream of opening a small business.

Owners Brandon and Cana Austin are friends with Emily and Tim Lewis, who previously operated Three Twigs Bakery out of the space before relocating to a larger building in Parkway Pointe.

“They knew I had managed a coffee shop before and always wanted to own something,” said Brandon Austin. When the Lewis’ made plans to relocate their own business, they reached out to the Austins about taking over the space.

“The whole goal was not to leave Toronto Road empty,” said Emily Lewis. “We wanted to work with someone with is passionate about quality and community like we are.”

Grateful Coffee Co. is open Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m.-2 p.m., serving breakfast and lunch. Austin said the location will also continue to sell baked goods from Three Twigs as well as coffee from Redbud City Coffee Roasters, based in Auburn.

The original opening date was delayed after Brandon was hospitalized due to complications resulting from COVID. However, the location held its grand opening on April 17, and the couple say they appreciate the support from the community.

“Any time something fortunate happens to us, we like to think about those who helped us get there,” Austin said. “We’re grateful for our customers and want to show appreciation for those who support us.”