Lighthouse Coffee Roasters and Cafe.
Rhode Island has a reputation for having a Dunkin’ Donuts — excuse me, Dunkin’ — on every corner, but it is nice to see so many independently-owned coffee shops popping up in our neighborhoods. Case in Point: Lighthouse Coffee Roasters and Cafe in North Kingstown. The husband-and-wife team, Rob and Courtney Kenerson, recently opened the shop one year after the inception of the coffee brand, alongside Rob’s sister, Elizabeth.
Courtney was also a former Rhode Island Monthly intern, who did a wonderful job capturing many aspects of Rhode Island on our website and blog. The family is committed to making their business a family affair for others, too. Lighthouse Coffee Roasters and Cafe offers coffee made from beans that are roasted in house using its Bellwether electric coffee roaster, as well as freshly made pastries, pressed juices, breakfast sandwiches and more.
The family focuses on sustainable practices through adopting the zero-emission roaster that has been called the most sustainable coffee roaster in the world for both air quality and energy use. They also procure beans through Bellwether, which imports green coffee from farms that pay their workers fairly and provides families with means to education, food, housing, healthcare and more. Lighthouse Roasters uses sustainable packaging, including cans instead of coffee bags, because the cans are more easily recyclable.
While the coffee brand was founded in 2021, the cafe opened in early August. It aims to be a spot for the tight-knit community to gather. Patrons are welcome to use the space to study or conduct work remotely in the calm environment featuring coastal colors and comfortable furniture.
“Our goal was to create a ‘home away from home’ type space for the community,” says owner Courtney Kenerson. “Yes, we want to offer delicious coffee and food, but what was more important to us was creating an experience for those who walk through our doors.”
7446 Post Rd., North Kingstown, 401-757-1110, lighthousecoffeeri.com