Have you ever wondered how the rich aroma of coffee can blend with the soothing scents of candles? At Waxed Coffee Bar, located inside Waxed Candle Company in downtown Waukesha, you can experience both. This unique spot not only serves delightful coffee but also offers an opportunity to create your own candles.
Welcome to Waxed Coffee Bar
Opened about a year ago, the candle shop recently ventured into the world of coffee with its new bar that just launched a month ago. Here, you can savor coffee drinks crafted from Valentine Coffee, a Milwaukee favorite, as well as a selection of trendy dirty sodas for that refreshing, caffeine-free experience.
Jasper Mayeur often finds himself at the helm of the espresso machine at Waxed Coffee Bar. After discovering that his previous workplace, Karma Café & Smoothie Bar, was closing, he pivoted to this new venture. It was fortuitous timing because John Lersch, the owner of Waxed Candle Company, was seeking to attract more daytime visitors and provide cozy beverages to candle-making enthusiasts.
Refreshing Options
The menu features a variety of dirty sodas, which start with a soda base enhanced with cream and flavored syrups. Notable combinations include the Orange Creamsicle, Strawberry and Cream, and the Island Dirty Sprite Zero.
For those who prefer traditional options with a twist, the specialty lattes embrace a musical theme. Customers can indulge in the Elvis latte, a blend of espresso, milk, bananas, and peanut butter, or the Strawberry Fields, showcasing espresso, milk, fresh strawberries, and vanilla.
Both hot and cold lattes are available, along with traditional coffee options such as cappuccinos, Americanos, and drip coffee.
A Musical Connection
Lersch explains that the musical theme honors Waukesha’s rich musical history. This concept will further extend to the upcoming Waxed Vinyl Music Lounge, which is currently under construction nearby. This lounge will offer a touch of classic Hollywood glam, serving music-themed food and drinks. It will also serve as a waiting area for those making candles, as the cooling process takes around 45 minutes.
Creating experiences for visitors is at the heart of Lersch’s vision. He emphasizes, “It’s all about the time with your friends. I have always gravitated more toward experiences.”
Starting his candle-making journey at home in 2019, Lersch’s venture grew to include candle-making parties, ultimately leading him to choose downtown Waukesha as his business location.
“We’ve been expanding since we moved in here,” he remarked. “The community has embraced us.”
Beyond coffee and candles, Waxed Candle Company boasts classes and unique, handmade candles, along with laundry and other detergent products featuring simple ingredients and delightful scents.
Mayeur emphasizes that Waxed Coffee Bar and the broader Waxed Candle Company aim to foster a “hospitable, friendly place” that encourages community interaction.
Hours of operation typically run from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
What’s New in the Area
Karma Café closed
As noted earlier, Karma Café & Smoothie Bar at 118 W. Broadway has closed its doors. Previously, the café offered a range of cold and hot beverages, acai bowls, protein waffles, and smoothies.
A New Breakfast Spot Coming
The county’s newest First Watch restaurant will be opening this spring at 1295 Olympia Fields Drive in Oconomowoc. The location is currently seeking a Class B Fermented Malt Beverage and a Class C Wine license from the city.
Look forward to a menu filled with waffles, eggs, bacon, pancakes, and unique dishes such as Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Elevated Egg Sandwich, Pesto Chicken Power Bowl, and Smoked Salmon and Roasted Vegetable Frittata. The anticipated opening date is April 6. (For restaurant news tips in Waukesha County, email Katherine Beck at kbeck@conleynet.com.)
Key Takeaways
- Waxed Coffee Bar combines coffee and candle-making experiences.
- The bar features products from Valentine Coffee and trendy dirty sodas.
- Specialty lattes have musical themes, celebrating Waukesha’s rich musical heritage.
- Upcoming Waxed Vinyl Music Lounge will offer a unique culinary and musical experience.
- Open hours are Monday to Friday 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
FAQ
What are dirty sodas?
Dirty sodas are a fun beverage option that mix soda with cream and flavored syrups.
What type of specialty lattes are available?
The menu includes musical-themed lattes like the Elvis and Strawberry Fields.
What is the Waxed Vinyl Music Lounge?
This upcoming lounge will serve music-themed food and beverages, enhancing the overall experience at Waxed Candle Company.
Is there a commitment to community engagement?
Yes, both Waxed Coffee Bar and Waxed Candle Company strive to create a welcoming environment for the community.
Looking forward, Waxed Coffee Bar stands as a unique blend of experiences that brings together coffee lovers and candle enthusiasts in one vibrant space. Whether you want to enjoy a coffee or embark on a candle-making journey, this establishment offers something special for everyone.
