The Red Raven: Five Years of Coffee and Community

By Dan Nygard
Contributing Writer

Sitting down with Erik Meyer to discuss this week’s five-year anniversary celebration, I asked for a latte (my fave) and was given a coffee that also functioned as a work of art. Engraved into the foam was a delicate branch with leaves spanning the surface of the cup, a miracle of composition. I could say more about the artistry, but what’s important is that my latte was delicious, roasted just so, and without the scorched quality of those I’ve had elsewhere.

Though Erik was bashful about his work, saying, “I’m probably the least-knowledgeable about how to create latte art,” this speaks to the new status of the downtown coffee landmark as an employee-owned entity, and of Meyer’s respect for his co-owners. In January of this year, Meyer, Kenneth Skoglund, Joe Curry and Andrew Johnson bought the Red Raven from Dominic Fischer, and have since worked together to run the shop, sharing the 110-or-so hours each week required to keep the business running. The co-workers here are the co-owners, and they clearly respect each other.

Now, the coffee has always been great here. Since its inception, The Red Raven has used Dead Man’s Brew from Raven’s Brew.  According to Meyer, this is “a smooth, versatile bean that’s good for coffee, espresso, or French press alike.” And when the workers are the owners, there is a level of quality control that simply cannot be found elsewhere. “Everyone who works here,” adds Meyer, “does so because, ultimately, we want to have a good cup of coffee.”

In addition to the coffee, the Raven has a great environment. Located in the basement level at 14 Roberts Street, it feels like the basement in that one house in the neighborhood where everyone could hang out and listen to music or just meet up before a bike ride.

Local art lines the walls, along with flyers for shows and community events, which all can be held in the event space in the back of the shop. And this is more than just a space for bands (though that remains an important function). As Meyer notes, “We’ve had a wide range of events, from public discussions on immigration to community fundraising to poetry readings.”

Also, this English major must note the wide selection of used books at the Raven, which are available to read in the store, or, for the price of a latte, to take home. And a “wide selection” does not imply that these books have been thrown on the shelves: the titles read like the home library of a curious, intelligent reader, ranging from ancient epics through Roman drama to the twentieth century novel.

Whereas most coffee shops almost require that you enter with something to do (unless you want to play a beat-up board game), at the Raven, if there isn’t something going on, there are always plenty of interesting people, and, at the very least, a classic of literature nearby.

So come out this week, whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer. The events highlight the variety of artists and community events that happen every day of the week at this cornerstone of the downtown community.

On Thursday, Animal Lover kicks off their tour at 9 pm. On Friday, Lava Proof Boots and OK Fox take the stage. Saturday begins at noon with Child Storytime, followed by an Art Market (2-6 pm), and a Really, Really Free Market (6-11 pm). Sunrise/Sunset and Sleeping in Gethsemane play Sunday evening, and on Monday the celebration comes to a close with Johnny Unicorn and the folk sounds of World History.

Or, if you want, just stop in, chat with one of the owners, and enjoy a latte.

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If You Go

What: Red Raven 5 Year Anniversary Celebration
Where: 14 Roberts St N
When: Thursday-Monday, Sept. 9-13
Info: 701.478.7337