Bastrop, Texas, is set to enhance its cafe culture with the official opening of Horizon Coffee Bar on October 30, 2023. Located at 146 TX-21, this new coffee trailer will celebrate its launch with a series of grand opening festivities, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony and special promotions.
The coffee trailer, which began operations quietly in August, has already attracted a devoted customer base, thanks to its welcoming service and expertly crafted espresso beverages. Owner Chris Rios expressed gratitude for the positive reception, stating, “We’re grateful for the reception since our soft opening. Our grand opening is a thank you and a way to tell even more individuals we’re here, serving great coffee with a smile.”
Grand Opening Festivities
The grand opening event will kick off at 10:30 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Attendees can expect drink specials, giveaways, and an opportunity to meet the owners, Lauren McIntyre and Chris Rios. This occasion not only marks the official launch of Horizon Coffee Bar but also serves as a celebration of the community support that has helped the business thrive.
Transitioning to Coffee Entrepreneurship
Both McIntyre and Rios transitioned from careers in technology and logistics to pursue their passion for coffee entrepreneurship. Their journey was propelled by the challenges they faced, including layoffs in their previous occupations. They found a guiding partner in Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea, which offers a program called “7 Steps to Success.” This initiative has equipped them with the necessary tools and confidence to establish their own coffee business.
McIntyre noted, “Crimson Cup’s 7 Steps gave us the tools and confidence we needed. They’ve been a true partner throughout this journey.” The support from Crimson Cup not only helped them navigate the complexities of starting a cafe but also reinforced their commitment to providing quality coffee to the community.
Founded in 1991, Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea has built a reputation as a leader in the specialty coffee market, recognized for its sustainable sourcing and award-winning roasts. The company’s beans have garnered accolades, including the Good Food Awards and the 2025 Golden Bean World Series Championship. Their initiative, Friend2Farmer, aims to support coffee-growing communities worldwide through ethical collaborations.
As Horizon Coffee Bar prepares to open its doors, it is poised to become a vibrant addition to Bastrop’s coffee scene, offering residents a new destination for high-quality coffee and a welcoming atmosphere. With the guidance of Crimson Cup’s coffee expertise, McIntyre and Rios are set to bring a unique flavor to this Texas town.
