Bastrop, Texas, is set to enhance its café culture with the official opening of Horizon Coffee Bar on October 30, 2023. Located at 146 TX-21, this new coffee trailer has already begun to make an impression since its soft launch in August, garnering a loyal customer base for its friendly service and expertly crafted espresso drinks.
The grand opening festivities promise to be a vibrant celebration. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will kick off at 10:30 a.m., featuring drink specials, giveaways, and an opportunity to meet the café’s owners, Lauren McIntyre and Chris Rios. Rios expressed gratitude for the positive reception since the soft opening, stating, “We’re grateful for the reception since our soft opening. Our grand opening is a thank you and a way to tell even more individuals we’re here, serving great coffee with a smile.”
From Tech to Coffee: A New Entrepreneurial Journey
McIntyre and Rios have transitioned from careers as technologists and logisticians to coffee entrepreneurs, launching their venture following layoffs. Their partnership with Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea, a pioneer in the specialty coffee market, has been instrumental in their journey. The company, founded in 1991, is recognized for its sustainable sourcing and award-winning coffee blends.
The duo credits Crimson Cup’s “7 Steps to Success” program for empowering them to embark on this new path. McIntyre noted, “Crimson Cup’s 7 Steps gave us the tools and confidence we needed. They’ve been a true partner throughout this journey.”
Crimson Cup’s Impact on the Coffee Industry
Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea has established itself as a leader in the specialty coffee sector, known for its ethical practices and collaboration with coffee-growing communities globally. The company’s initiatives, such as the Friend2Farmer program, have positively impacted farmers by promoting sustainable farming practices. This commitment to ethical sourcing has earned recognition through various awards, including the Good Food Awards and the 2025 Golden Bean World Series Championship.
With the new Horizon Coffee Bar, Bastrop residents can look forward to an authentic and rich coffee experience. McIntyre and Rios are committed to delivering high-quality beverages, further enriched by the guidance of Crimson Cup’s coffee expertise. As they prepare for their grand opening, the excitement in the air signals a promising addition to the local coffee scene.
