“We’re trying to turn a negative into a positive,” explained the happy young woman who took my drink order. I asked if anyone loved rabbits or if the cafe’s name was a biblical reference. Apparently, a coffee shop in Deep East Texas is out to make fun of Bible Belt residents.
Thumpers Coffee and Gift Shop recently opened in the city of Nacogdoches, Texas. The spiritual center has some customers in the morning, but it is at night that it comes alive. As soon as classes are over at the nearby SFA-Stephen F. Austin University campus, students gather at the store for coffee and study.
Biblical sayings are painted on canvas throughout the property and a huge ornate mural is displayed on the ceiling. The cork/message board displays Bible studies, resources, and places to worship and pray. In fact, a prayer box is hung next to it for specific prayer requests.
The patrons were well dressed and polite. Its quiet atmosphere is like a library where everyone lowers their voice to chat. Ubiquitous personal computers dotted the place, and they were accommodated with a hi-fi signal provided by the café.
Prices were normal – about $2 for a medium coffee. There were light snacks and offerings along with a variety of hot and cold beverages. Hot chocolate was a nice addition to the menu and hard to find.
One positive aspect of the place that really drew me in was the constant crowd. As soon as Thumpers opened, the parking lot always seems full. We actually had to park behind the building because all the spaces in the front were full.
Overall I think this place will make it. Automatic acceptance is hard to come by in any city, big or small. This cafe filled an obviously needed spot in the North Street restaurant row. Competition like Starbucks and Java Jacks are far enough down the road that Thumpers stands out as the area’s coffee stop.
With the flow of traffic and a popular product, I see this business turning from a negative into a huge financial positive. They built it and people came, the classic recipe for success.
In a town that is full of worshipers and churches abound, it is good that they can relax a bit. Not taking yourself too seriously is surely a sign of a peaceful heart. This cafe provides believers with a safe place to share fellowship.