A Journey Through Exceptional Coffee: Cordial Coffee in Strasburg

The Valley Today

Nestled in the heart of Shenandoah County, Cordial Coffee has quickly become a beloved destination for coffee enthusiasts. In this episode of "The Valley Today," host Janet Michael and co-host Kary Haun sat down with Brandon Belland, the passionate owner of Cordial Coffee, to discuss his journey and the essence of this exceptional café.

Brandon's journey into the world of coffee began in 1999 in Virginia Beach. His experiences as a barista ignited a deep interest in coffee roasting and quality. Over the years, his relentless pursuit of excellence led him to establish Cordial Coffee, where he’s developed a unique and personal approach to coffee roasting without apprenticing under anyone else. “I wanted to find the skeleton key for each coffee,” Brandon explained, emphasizing his goal of unlocking the full potential of each bean.

The café’s first location in Berryville has been a community staple for nearly nine years. Recently, Cordial Coffee expanded to Strasburg, maintaining the same high standards and inviting atmosphere that customers have come to love. The new location is marked by its stunning copper espresso machine, a dream piece Brandon had long coveted, adding a touch of spectacle as soon as patrons walk through the door.

Cordial Coffee is renowned for its made-to-order waffles and gluten-free oatmeal bowls, each customizable to suit individual tastes. Brandon proudly notes, “We make all of our own syrups. Our batter’s made from scratch.” This dedication to quality extends to their coffee, which is roasted on-site in Berryville and sourced from trusted farmers. “Knowing how the coffee is grown and roasted is crucial to ensuring it tastes great,” Brandon remarked.

The decision to open in Strasburg came about through a collaborative opportunity with Tom Price of Box Office Brewery. The synergy of the two businesses supports a vibrant community space, blending the day’s coffee drinkers seamlessly with the brewery’s evening patrons. Cordial Coffee’s unique offerings include a house-developed Valencia syrup, featuring a delightful orange zest infusion, a favorite among patrons.

Beyond just serving coffee, Brandon and his team strive to create meaningful experiences. Whether it’s engaging in impromptu Q&A sessions about roasting or participating in local events, Cordial Coffee fosters a sense of community. As Brandon puts it, “We’re trying to provide value and keep people happy with coming in, spending time in our shops.” This commitment to customer satisfaction and artisanal quality ensures Cordial Coffee stands out in the competitive world of coffee.

Within Shenandoah County, the café is part of a lively community scene. Janet and Kary highlighted upcoming local events, like “Vintage in the Valley” and “Birds on the Bend,” which showcase the region’s vibrant culture. Cordial Coffee is set to be a key player in these and many more events, further embedding itself in the fabric of the community.

Cordial Coffee’s story is one of passion, quality, and community. Whether you’re indulging in a custom-built waffle or savoring a perfect mocha, the experience at Cordial Coffee is about more than just a great cup of coffee. It’s about being part of something special, a place where every detail is crafted with care and every customer is treated like family. If you find yourself in Shenandoah County, Cordial Coffee is a must-visit destination.

For more information, visit Cordial Coffee’s website or follow them on Instagram. Don’t miss out on the unique flavors and warm atmosphere that make Cordial Coffee a standout experience.