Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiara & Emma Zook.
Hi Kiara & Emma , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Kiara and I are sister-in-laws who came together through family and a shared love for coffee. I (Emma) moved from Madison, Indiana a couple of years ago when I married her brother, while Kiara grew up here locally and has dreamed of owning a coffee shop since high school. I spent years working in the coffee shop industry and have always loved the atmosphere, the people, and the creativity behind it.
With both of our passions aligned, we decided to start something of our own — and that’s how Zook Coffee was born. We’ve now been open for seven months, and it’s been such a blessing to see the community support us and to watch the shop grow every day.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Overall it’s been a really good journey, but the main challenge was the remodel. Our family did most of the work ourselves, which made the process take longer than we expected. Even though it slowed things down, it made the shop feel even more meaningful once we finally opened.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At Zook Coffee, we focus on creating a warm, welcoming space with high-quality drinks and clean ingredients. We specialize in handcrafted coffee, homemade pastries, and fresh lunch options — especially our sandwiches made on homemade bread. We’re also known for featuring coffee beans sourced from our family back in Madison, Indiana, which makes every cup feel personal and meaningful.
What we’re most proud of is the community we’ve built in such a short time. People come in not just for the drinks, but because they feel cared for and at home. What sets us apart is the family effort behind everything — from the beans, to the recipes, to the remodel itself. There’s so much heart in this place, and I think people can genuinely feel that when they walk through the door.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
For me, I get a lot of inspiration from faith-based resources. I love listening to Christian podcasts and worship playlists because they keep me grounded and encouraged, especially on busy mornings. I also use a few practical tools — things like Canva for designing our menus and social posts, and the Notes app for planning ideas and keeping track of new drink recipes.
Nothing fancy, but those simple things help me stay organized, creative, and connected to what matters most.
Pricing:
- Drinks: Most coffees and specialty drinks range from $3.50–$7.00, depending on size and customization.
- Pastries: Fresh pastries typically range from $2.50–$5.00.
- Lunch Menu: Our sandwiches made with homemade bread are $8–$10, depending on the item.
- Merch: We currently offer crewnecks and T-shirts ranging from $20–$40
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zookcoffee.com/
- Instagram: Zookcoffeecompany
- Facebook: Zookcoffeecompany
