Pour yourself a cup for this one: Two years ago, a vacant city-owned building on Wauwatosa’s North Avenue was a relic of neglect. Now, it’s a hub of clinking mugs, buzzing espresso machines, and a community that’s finally found its rhythm. Idyll Coffee Roasters, the brainchild of Amy and Dave Tamburrino, Karen Kurgan, and Peter Sohnle, has transformed the space into a sanctuary for specialty coffee, sustainability, and local connection.
The co-owners didn’t just chase a dream—they built one. Kurgan’s decades of experience in Milwaukee’s coffee scene, including leadership at 68th Street Colectivo, laid the groundwork for a project that marries passion with purpose. The team’s vision was clear: a place where coffee isn’t just sold but experienced. “Idyll” isn’t a word you hear often, but it’s the heartbeat of this shop. Sohnle, Kurgan’s spouse and Amy’s brother, defines it as a “temporary reprieve from daily stress”—a space where strangers become friends over a shared cup.
The journey wasn’t easy. The North Avenue property had been vacant since 2018, with redevelopment proposals bouncing between city officials and the U.S. Small Business Administration. For two years, the team partnered with architects and contractors to turn the space into a sunlit haven filled with plants, art, and the earthy aroma of freshly roasted beans. Every detail, from the energy-efficient roaster that minimizes smoke to the direct relationships with Nicaraguan farmers, reflects a commitment to ethical practices. “When the ethics are in front, the product is better,” Sohnle insists.
Idyll’s impact extends beyond its walls. It’s part of a thriving coffee corridor, sharing the street with Venture Brew Co. and Cafe Blue. But its true strength lies in its wholesale program, which supports local cafes and offices. Future plans include coffee-tasting workshops, blending education with the joy of discovery.
Its partnerships with organizations like Project Alianza highlight a dedication to fair labor and education for coffee workers.
Key points: Idyll Coffee Roasters blends community and sustainability, proving that a neighborhood space can thrive when ethics and creativity align. Its partnerships with organizations like Project Alianza highlight a dedication to fair labor and education for coffee workers. The menu, from salted maple cold brew to gingerbread lattes, offers both tradition and innovation.
What’s your favorite way to savor a cup of coffee in Wauwatosa?
Questions & Answers
Where is Idyll Coffee located?
Idyll Coffee is located on North Avenue in Tosa, Milwaukee. The spot was revitalized from a former property, bringing new life to the neighborhood.
What’s special about Idyll Coffee?
Idyll Coffee stands out for its quality beans, cozy atmosphere, and community vibe. It’s a local favorite for its fresh brews and welcoming space.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
