A Journey Through Exceptional Coffee: Cordial Coffee in Strasburg

cordial coffee

Nestled in the heart of Shenandoah County, Cordial Coffee has quickly become a beloved destination for coffee enthusiasts. In this episode of “The Valley Today,” – listen here – host Janet Michael and co-host Kary Haun sat down with Brandon Belland, the passionate owner of Cordial Coffee, to discuss his journey and the essence of this exceptional café.

Brandon’s journey into the world of coffee began in 1999 in Virginia Beach. His experiences as a barista ignited a deep interest in coffee roasting and quality. Over the years, his relentless pursuit of excellence led him to establish Cordial Coffee, where he’s developed a unique and personal approach to coffee roasting without apprenticing under anyone else. “I wanted to find the skeleton key for each coffee,” Brandon explained, emphasizing his goal of unlocking the full potential of each bean.

The café’s first location in Berryville has been a community staple for nearly nine years. Recently, Cordial Coffee expanded to Strasburg, maintaining the same high standards and inviting atmosphere that customers have come to love. The new location is marked by its stunning copper espresso machine, a dream piece Brandon had long coveted, adding a touch of spectacle as soon as patrons walk through the door.

Cordial Coffee is renowned for its made-to-order waffles and gluten-free oatmeal bowls, each customizable to suit individual tastes. Brandon proudly notes, “We make all of our own syrups. Our batter’s made from scratch.” This dedication to quality extends to their coffee, which is roasted on-site in Berryville and sourced from trusted farmers. “Knowing how the coffee is grown and roasted is crucial to ensuring it tastes great,” Brandon remarked.

The decision to open in Strasburg came about through a collaborative opportunity with Tom Price of Box Office Brewery. The synergy of the two businesses supports a vibrant community space, blending the day’s coffee drinkers seamlessly with the brewery’s evening patrons. Cordial Coffee’s unique offerings include a house-developed Valencia syrup, featuring a delightful orange zest infusion, a favorite among patrons.

Beyond just serving coffee, Brandon and his team strive to create meaningful experiences. Whether it’s engaging in impromptu Q&A sessions about roasting or participating in local events, Cordial Coffee fosters a sense of community. As Brandon puts it, “We’re trying to provide value and keep people happy with coming in, spending time in our shops.” This commitment to customer satisfaction and artisanal quality ensures Cordial Coffee stands out in the competitive world of coffee.

Within Shenandoah County, the café is part of a lively community scene. Janet and Kary highlighted upcoming local events, like “Vintage in the Valley” and “Birds on the Bend,” which showcase the region’s vibrant culture. Cordial Coffee is set to be a key player in these and many more events, further embedding itself in the fabric of the community.

Cordial Coffee’s story is one of passion, quality, and community. Whether you’re indulging in a custom-built waffle or savoring a perfect mocha, the experience at Cordial Coffee is about more than just a great cup of coffee. It’s about being part of something special, a place where every detail is crafted with care and every customer is treated like family. If you find yourself in Shenandoah County, Cordial Coffee is a must-visit destination.

For more information, visit Cordial Coffee’s website or follow them on Instagram. Don’t miss out on the unique flavors and warm atmosphere that make Cordial Coffee a standout experience.

Vintage in the Valley & Other Strasburg Festivals/Events

vintage in the valley

Spring is in full bloom in Strasburg, and the town is buzzing with excitement for its upcoming events. In this episode of The Valley Today – listen here – host Janet Michael had the pleasure of chatting with two of the town’s most passionate advocates: Mayor Brandy Hawkins Boies and Business and Engagement Coordinator Brian McKee.

Brandy, who wears multiple hats, including being a dedicated mother and mayor, shared her enthusiasm for the community. ‘Even before I was mayor, I was showing up to events with my kids,’ she said, highlighting her deep-rooted commitment to community involvement. Brian McKee echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the balance between fun and hard work in planning events like Vintage in the Valley.

One of the marquee events discussed was Vintage in the Valley, scheduled for April 5th. Brian provided an exciting overview of the event, featuring everything from vintage car shows and fashion parades to live music and local vendor booths. ‘It’s a way to celebrate Strasburg’s vintage heritage,’ Brian noted, adding that the event spans the entire downtown area.

Janet and Brandy agreed that events like these are vital for the town’s economic development. Local businesses thrive as visitors flood the town, contributing to the community in more ways than one. ‘We’re giving back to the community in a huge way,’ Brandy explained, highlighting the benefits that extend beyond just the day of the event.

As if Vintage in the Valley wasn’t enough, Brandy and Brian revealed plans for the upcoming MayFest, which has become bigger and better each year. Scheduled for May 9th through 11th, the event features a parade, a beauty pageant, a 5K race, and even a carnival. Brandy shared a delightful story about a group of women who made the event part of their bachelorette weekend, reflecting its wide-reaching appeal.

Strasburg’s events extend into the summer with the Farmers Market and Front Porch Fridays. Kicking off with Vintage in the Valley, the Farmers Market will host vendors every first and third Saturday from April to October. As for Front Porch Fridays, starting the first Friday in June, these free live music events offer a perfect way to spend summer evenings.

Brian highlighted the family-friendly nature of these gatherings. ‘It’s a safe environment for your kids,’ Brandy added, describing the joy of seeing children play freely while parents relax to live music. ‘There’s no cover charge, so it’s a fun Friday night for $0 if you want to.’

Janet was impressed to learn about Strasburg’s Creative Community Partnership grant, which will fund some upcoming events. Brian mentioned that the grant allows the town to showcase local artists through high-quality audio and video recordings, sometimes even involving performers who have appeared on shows like The Voice.

These efforts not only highlight local talent but also preserve the community’s unique charm. As Brandy noted, events like these serve as ‘a great community gathering spot,’ where residents can reconnect and new friendships can blossom.

To keep up with all these exciting events, Brian advised residents to visit the Strasburg VA website or follow the Discover Strasburg Facebook page. ‘Clicking that you’re attending helps drive the energy for the event,’ he explained.

With such a vibrant calendar of activities, it’s clear that Strasburg is the place to be this spring and summer. So mark your calendars, grab a friend, and experience the magic of this charming town!

Vintage in the Valley Festival returns to Strasburg

cares act distribution

The 4th Annual Vintage in the Valley Festival returns to Strasburg this weekend.

The event will stretch from the Strasburg Square throughout the town with over a hundred vendors of vintage goods, antiques, and handmade crafts.

There will also be a variety of activities ranging from free yoga and carriage rides to a wine garden with a DJ.

The Strasburg Library is hosting a variety of history and art programs with the help of the Strasburg Heritage Association and Museum of the Shenandoah Valley.

Some other marquee events include the Car Show on Holiday Street and the Vintage Fashion Show starting with styles from the Roaring ‘20s before the nightcap of a movie under the stars.

The Ole Timers Baseball game will finish things off on Sunday at First Bank Park with Edinburg/Woodstock taking on Strasburg.

The baseball game is free to attend with concessions and a 50/50 raffle supporting the Tribute to Trent Skatepark.

For more information on the event, click here.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

Strolling Strasburg: Vintage in the Valley

 

We recorded our conversations for The Valley Today on location at Box Office Brewery & Nancy’s Coffee Bar for our Strolling Strasburg episode with Olivia Hilton, Interim (soon to be permanent I HOPE!) Directory of Community Development & Tourism for the town of Strasburg.

Vintage in the Valley happens Saturday, April 2, 2022 so we learned all the details for the 3-day event, plus talked to vendors and committee members.

In the first segment, we chatted with Hannah Skedsvold from Malabella Jewels about her business and what she’ll have for purchase at Vintage in the Valley. We also chatted with Sharon Mauzy from Skyview Acres about her farm and the wide range of products you’ll be able to purchase from her that day. The conversations with both ladies includes pieces that had to be cut on order to fit into the radio show timeline, but you can hear everything here on the podcast.

In the second segment, we were joined by Kara Mroczek from Star in the Valley Winery to get the details about their vintage wine garden that will be located in the grassy area next to town hall.

This the third year for Vintage in the Valley Festival that will showcase 100+ vendors of vintage goods, antiques, and handmade crafts. Space is still available if you’re interested in being a vendor.

Friday evening, April 1, 2022, Box Office Brewery will be hosting a Decades Dance from 7-10PM with DJ Connection and a costume contest in partnership with the local FCCLA Chapter!

Beginning Saturday, April 2, 2022, visit the Strasburg Square to pick up your event map, sip on a glass of Virginia wine from Star in the Valley Winery, and listen to live music. There will be a bouncy house in the Wine Garden for those young at heart! Carriage rides will be offered from 11-3PM so you can see how BIG the event spans! Make your way to the Strasburg Town Hall lot to kickoff your shopping! Stop in to see Vilnis & Co Antiques, Clementine Vintage and the King Street Flea Market, as well. The Strasburg Emporium is a HUGE partner for this event, hosting a half a dozen live demonstrations, over 30+ vendors outside, food trucks, and more live music (not to mention the 60+ vendors inside!). Vendors will be split between the Strasburg Square and the Emporium.

A Vintage Car Show will be parked from 10-3PM on Holliday Street! Proceeds benefit the Shenandoah Alliance for Shelter. Last year, there were 72 cars in attendance.

A highlight of the festival is the Vintage Fashion Show hosted by Lydia’s Clothes Closet! Their fashion spans from 1920 to present day and hosts over 50 models representing several generations and walks of life! Local restaurants will be offering daily specials along with downtown businesses hosting sidewalk sales.

To top off the festivities, the Shenandoah Film Collaborative will be showing a ‘Movie Under the Stars’ in the Strasburg Square at 8PM on April 2, 2022. The featured film will be The Wizard of Oz.

The Ole Timer’s Baseball teams will also be playing on Sunday, April 3, 2022.

For more information, or for vendor applications, please contact Olivia Hilton, Interim Director of Community Development for the Town of Strasburg:
P: 540-465-9197
E: ohilton@strasburgva.com

Vintage in the Valley returns to Strasburg

cares act distribution

Strasburg is holding their 2nd annual Vintage in the Valley Festival today from 10 am to 4 pm at the Strasburg Square.

There will be a DJ playing music throughout the decades, a wine garden with a bounce house for adults, and of course over 100 with vintage clothing, antiques and other cool finds.

Today will also feature an antique car show from 10 am to 3 pm on Holiday Street and a fashion show throughout the decades hosted by Lydia’s Closet. 

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.