By Nancy Jennings
Would you like biscuits and gravy to go with your morning latte? Just look for the giant red-and-white guitar perched up inside of a coffee cup on top of the small bright-red building in Mount Angel – and place your order.
Opened in April, Rock’n Latte coffee drive-through has brought new energy and passion to the Berchtold Industrial Park. Owner and Mount Angel resident, Cheryl Baurer, 42, wants to inspire and be a good example to her five children.
“I started my own business because I want to show my kids that they can overcome obstacles that life throws at them,” she said, adding that the schedule is demanding.
Baurer couldn’t be more proud of her children: Mariah, 19, is in the U.S. Army, Callie, 16, attends Silverton High and “is passionate about reading,” Abigail, 12, “is passionate about animals,” Jasiah, 8, “wants to be a Ninja,” and Lydia, 7, is “full of spunk and sweetness.”
Choosing a rock-and-roll theme, she enjoys sharing her love of music with her customers. When asked her favorite, Baurer couldn’t pick just one. “I have a huge variety. I like Tom Petty, AC/DC, Bon Jovi and Aerosmith.”
Formerly The Divine Bean, caffeine seekers can now pull up and hear rousing music playing through outside speakers as they place orders such as “The Buzzed Zebra” or a “Candied Apple Smoothie.” The types of drinks offered are plentiful and include: white coffee, cold brews, iced coffees, lattes, mochas and smoothies. Boba/bubble teas are also available. Made-to-order breakfast sandwiches are available daily. To save time, call-in orders are popular.
“I pay particular attention to quality and speed to satisfy our customers,” she said. Baurer has experience in the food service industry. Last year, she was toying with the idea of running her own business. One day she drove to The Divine Bean and ordered a drink. The owner told her they were selling the business. Hearing the news struck a chord, and Baurer jumped at the opportunity.
In September, two new employees – Abby Hartt and Ash Davidson – joined the team. Both enjoy the camaraderie they share with their customers. Abby, 19, lives in Molalla.
“I think it’s fun because you get to meet and interact with a lot of different people,” she said. “Last week, there was a guy that came in and I found out he was in my dad’s wedding. He was telling me stories about them in high school. It was crazy.”
Ash, 26, lives in Silverton with her husband. “I like building relationships with the locals. I’m loving this area. Everybody is so nice and laidback,” she said.
“We have a really good following of regulars that come in to chat and hang out to have a little break from their day. I love learning everybody’s story.”
Rock’n Latte will soon be offering delivery orders in the Mount Angel/Silverton area.
Rock’n Latte Hours: Monday through Saturday5 a.m. – 5 p.m.Closed Sunday. 1010 N. Main St., Mount Angel.
