The Coffee Ethic

The Coffee Ethic is an award-winning coffee bar and roaster located in Downtown Springfield, Missouri, that has been serving specialty coffee drinks since 2007. Founded by Tom Billionis and his business partner Jim Hamilton, the company was born from a passion for high-quality coffee and a desire to make a positive impact on their community and the environment. The Coffee Ethic operates with a clear mission centered on three core values: Cup, People, and Earth. Their commitment to the "Cup" means they source the highest quality single-origin coffees and are dedicated to the art and science of brewing, striving to serve the best cup of coffee every time. They roast their coffee on-site using a 1991 Probat L12 roaster, with plans to make their roasting operations carbon neutral. Their dedication to "People" reflects their belief that all people have worth, and they desire to serve everyone in their coffee community relationally, socially, and economically - from growers and suppliers to customers, employees, and their families. The company is woman-owned and LGBTQIA+ friendly, emphasizing inclusivity in their business practices. The "Earth" component of their mission demonstrates their commitment to sustainability. The Coffee Ethic was one of the first specialty coffee companies to implement compostable packaging options. They use biodegradable takeaway cups, pastry bags, and coffee bags. Their café features naturally harvested and reclaimed wood furniture, including pieces made from trees devastated in the Ozarks' 2007 ice storm. They purchase wind energy from their local electrical company, have installed bike racks to encourage cycling, and their patio features edible vegetation with a rain catcher sculpture for watering. Even their espresso pucks are composted at a local urban farm. Located at 124 Park Central Square in downtown Springfield, The Coffee Ethic operates out of a beautifully designed space with an industrial, modern feel. They serve not only exceptional coffee but also offer craft beers (including local Missouri breweries like Mother's Brewing), seasonal wines, made-to-order breakfast food, homemade pastries, and gluten-free and vegan options. The shop operates with summer hours: Monday-Friday 7am-2pm and Saturday-Sunday 8am-3pm. The Coffee Ethic has earned recognition as an award-winning establishment and has been featured in specialty coffee publications like Sprudge for their leadership in sustainable business practices and quality coffee. They offer wholesale services and coffee subscriptions, ensuring their commitment to quality extends beyond their physical location to coffee lovers throughout the region.