Photo by Madelyn Alexander, Photography editor By Elise Kidd
Strand Coffeehouse is the newest business to open in Montevallo. Strand officially opened its doors Monday, Feb. 7, but the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony took place Saturday, Feb. 12 with over 200 people in attendance according to owner Sean Eichelberger.
“We exceeded my expectations by a lot,” said Eichelberger. “Since we’ve been open a week, we’ve been overwhelmed in the best way possible at the response.”
Strand’s menu has an array of drinks such as lattes, tea, smoothies, and frappes. They also serve some small food items like French toast sticks, scones, and other pastries.
Montevallo resident, Emily Gardiner, shared that she loves how Strand has specialty lattes and drinks that feel very custom.
Gardiner also shared that she thought the coffee was great just from her first time trying it.
Adele Nelson, Director of Montevallo Chamber of Commerce also complimented the coffee and the inviting atmosphere Eichelberger created in the shop.
“It’s great. I’ve had it many times and tried several kinds. He will always just ask me ‘what are you in the mood for?’ He’s doing a great job,” said Nelson about Eichelberger and the coffee.
“It just feels homey,” Gardiner said about the shop.
Strand was originally a movie theater, and some of the history is still present. The original brick wall is still visible to customers behind the service counter. Eichelberger is working with the history, and even plans to turn the original ticket booth into a study nook for students.
“I remember coming here and actually seeing the movies,” said Gardiner, explaining that there was some nostalgia at the remaining reminders of what Strand formerly was, but there was also excitement at the newness Strand as a coffeehouse is bringing the community.
Strand’s hours are Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. as well as Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. These hours will remain the same according to Eichelberger but he does plan to make minor changes to the menu in the following weeks. What these changes will be are unclear as of now.
Overall, Eichelberger said, “I just want to thank everyone who has come to visit so far and I want to invite everyone else to come and see if we can be their new favorite coffee spot.”
