Get ready to sip on this: Columbus’ Royal Flamingo Coffee isn’t just another local roastery—it’s a story of restless ambition, meticulous craft, and a few well-placed flamingos. Bryan Brzozowski and Beth Stallings turned a home hobby into a globally recognized brand, earning medals at competitions from North America to Australia. Their journey began in 2018, when Brzozowski, a former banker, decided to roast coffee at home after being inspired by Columbus’ specialty shops. What started as a side project evolved into a full-fledged business, fueled by a relentless drive to push boundaries.
The couple’s approach is as bold as their name. They source beans from farmers who are redefining specialty coffee, focusing on fermentation and drying techniques that unlock complex flavor profiles. The results? Coffees that range from fruity and candy-like to funky and unforgettable. Their 2023 gold medal in espresso for CM Red Fruits and 2024 silver in Melbourne’s filter coffee category aren’t just accolades—they’re proof of their precision. Upgrading to a commercial roaster in 2022 allowed them to scale without sacrificing quality, leading to their first major competition success.
Royal Flamingo’s Columbus café, nestled on King Ave., is where their passion meets practicality. The menu splits into “Daily Greats” for the comfort-seeking and “Super Fun” for the adventurous. First-timers are encouraged to start with the Barista’s Breakfast—a tasting board of espresso, batch brew, and flat white—to decide their morning’s adventure. “It’s about choosing between a clean cup or something that’ll blow your mind,” Stallings says. The space also shares a venue with I Like It Like That, blending coffee and cocktails into a unique local experience.
Key takeaway: Royal Flamingo’s success lies in their balance of innovation and tradition, sourcing from forward-thinking farmers and offering a menu that challenges and satisfies. Their story is a reminder that passion, paired with purpose, can turn a hobby into a global phenomenon.
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Questions & Answers
What makes Royal Flamingo Coffee unique?
Royal Flamingo Coffee is known for its award-winning roasts, small-batch production, and focus on quality. It uses sustainable practices and offers a range of single-origin and blends.
Where is Royal Flamingo Coffee located?
Royal Flamingo Coffee is located in Columbus, Ohio. It operates a local roastery and café, serving the community with its premium coffee offerings.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
