Eat Athens: Get a cup of coffee and a sharp knife to go at this Watkinsville 'outpost'
Just because a person is "roughing it" out in the woods doesn't mean they're not entitled to a great cup of coffee, and there's no good reason why that coffee can't be just as fancy, or even fancier, as anything available at your local drive-through.
A specialty shop in Watkinsville has built a nice little business out of making sure folks have the right tools and the right tastes before heading out on an adventure.
Located at 21 N. Main St., Outpost Oconee is a combination outdoor lifestyle store and coffeeshop inspired by the model of the old-time general's store, but with a sharp eye towards modern conveniences. Speaking of sharp, Outpost offers a large selection of knives, tools, and other accessories one would need on a wilderness excursion, but their inventory also includes coffee, cold brew and hot chocolate sold by the cup.
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Outpost Oconee is run by self-described "serial entrepreneur" Casey Deming, who also owns Georgia Bushcraft, Griffin Pocket Tool and Bushcraft Coffee. Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Outpost offers a unique shopping experience that combines the necessities of big stores like REI with the coziness of a corner coffeeshop. From books and cookware to campsite cocktail kits, it's an ideal spot to shop for unique gifts.
"They really cleaned us out during the holiday season," said Deming's uncle Mike Munson, who was minding the store when the Banner-Herald stopped in for a visit. "After the Christmas shopping rush was over, I think we had about two bags of coffee left."
The coffee served at Outpost is a medium roast called Campfire, and was designed by Deming from beans grown in Honduras and processed in Atlanta. The blend of almond and cinnamon gives Campfire a smooth taste that is perfect for folks who don't like the burnt flavor and finish of Starbuck's coffee. The cold brew at Outpost, Castaway, was also designed by Deming and contains hints of coconut and Caribbean rum.
Campfire, Castaway and a dark roast called Cast Iron are all sold by the bag at Outpost, and the staff will grind the coffee beans upon request. By-the-cup prices for coffee and hot chocolate are $3 for 12-ounce size and $4 for 16 ounces, a bag of Campfire is $12, and Castaway and Cast Iron are $14. For full details and online ordering, visit outpostoconee.com.
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This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Eat Athens: Outpost Oconee offers coffee and knives in Watkinsville
