Chesterfield Hidden Gem: Guide Roasting Company

Tucked away in a quiet business park off in Midlothian, Virginia, Guide Roasting Company may be one of the most thoughtfully owned coffee shops in Chesterfield. This family-owned Hidden Gem has been steadily gaining recognition for its exceptional coffee and innovative approach to sustainability.

A Family-Driven Passion for Coffee
Founded in 2018 by Gary and Julie Kratzer, Guide Roasting Company began as a shared passion project fueled by their love for quality coffee. Combining Gary’s engineering expertise with Julie’s background in education, they set out to create a coffee experience that emphasizes quality, freshness, and community engagement. 

Pioneering Sustainability with Compostable Coffee Pods
Beyond their coffee offerings, Guide Roasting Company is making waves in the coffee industry through its sister company, Green Pod Coffee Packing. They’ve developed the country’s only 100% compostable coffee pods compatible with Keurig machines, including both the pod and its packaging. Operating around the clock, their facility produces millions of these eco-friendly pods annually, catering to environmentally conscious consumers and partnering with small coffee roasters nationwide. Everyday consumers also have the option of buying a 12 or 24 count of coffee pods from around the world and start sustainability practices at home by recycling the eco-friendly pods. Even better, a subscription service is available at a discount for those who never want to run out of coffee!

Expanding Presence in Local Establishments
Guide Roasting Company’s commitment to quality and sustainability has led to its coffee being sold in various local businesses throughout Chesterfield County like One Rose Décor and The Art Factory to name a few. Notably, the coffee is also served at Annie Ruth’s Wine Bar & Bistro, a charming eatery located near the Brandermill community.

A Destination Worth Discovering
While Guide Roasting Company’s location may be off the beaten path, it’s a destination that rewards those who seek it out. Visitors can enjoy a variety of coffee drinks, sample different roasts, and even witness the roasting process firsthand. The shop also offers a selection of pastries and food items, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing coffee break. As one Yelp reviewer noted, “Worth the (short) drive off the main road… My dirty chai was EXCELLENT!!” 

Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, a visit to Guide Roasting Company offers a unique opportunity to experience exceptional coffee crafted with care and a commitment to sustainability. It’s a hidden gem that embodies the spirit of innovation and community in Chesterfield, Virginia.

Experience Chesterfield promotes and celebrates all the things to see, do and experience within Chesterfield County. The website is not paid to endorse individual businesses or events and any that you may see mentioned are just a sampling of the many wonderful places to visit in Chesterfield. If you operate a hospitality related business in Chesterfield, please be sure to reach out to our partners at Richmond Region Tourism to create a business listing for our website. You can also reach out to Virginia Tourism Corporation to create a business listing on their site for additional exposure.