Simply good coffee. Simply good tea. Simply calm and approachable.

The Simple Coffee House, tucked away in a strip mall a block from Cowles Mountain, is a perfect spot to grab a cup of something hot or not after your hike.

Elizabeth Tran moved here in 2019 and opened the shop.

“It was anything but simple”, she said. The calming decor with plenty of green plants, the friendly staff, who are always willing to help. Many patrons have donated their “old-fashioned” record albums and return after the morning rush to choose a favorite song or album to listen to while enjoying a beverage.

Enjoy your food and drink on their outdoor patio shaded with greenery walls that provide both shade and moderate privacy from the bustle of the shopping center. You almost can’t tell there are large box stores in the same complex. The relaxed vibe can be found inside also. The calm atmosphere is perfect for anyone who needs a moderately quiet space with plenty of chargers to get some work done.

“We roast small batches of coffee in-house,” Tran said. “You can buy it by the pound or enjoy it in one of our drinks. The origin of our coffee is always changing. We currently have Colombian coffee that is very popular.” Not to worry for the non-coffee drinkers they serve teas such as Green Tea, or Chai Tea Latte. If you enjoy boba milk teas they also offer Earl Grey, Coffee, Thai Green Tea, or Taro teas.

If you want something different try one of the varieties of Lemonades such as Blue Raspberry, Arnold Palmer, Acai Berry Tea, Mango, Pineapple, or Peach.

If you’re looking for a bite of food, besides an assortment of pastries, try an Avocado toast with or without Prosciutto. For something more substantial a ham and cheese croissant sandwich or an Acai bowl should hit the spot.

Smoothie specials change regularly. Pina Colada, Strawberry Banana, Wild Berry, Mango, and Peach are currently on the menu.

Located at 7407 Jackson Drive in the Navajo Jackson Center, come in, or phone in your order at (619) 888-4873. You can also order online through GrubHub, Seamless, or DoorDash.

Rumor has it that the Viennese Coffee is popular with honey and cinnamon. Give it a try.

– Robin Dohrn-Simpson is a local food and travel writer. Reach her at robindohrnsimpson.com.