Mountaineer Coffee opened in Brooksville in 2013, founded by Daniel and Darby Pritz after a year operating another café. The name honors Daniel’s grandfather, who ran Mountaineer Antiques in town.
Starting as a small venture, they moved to a downtown Brooksville location in 2016, where Daniel began roasting beans on-site. This hands-on approach allowed them to control quality and offer unique flavors, setting them apart early on. By embracing ethical bean sourcing****, they ensured the sustainability of their coffee.
Relocating to downtown Brooksville in 2016, Mountaineer began roasting in-house—crafting distinct flavors through meticulous quality control from bean to cup.
By 2018, they’d expanded to New Port Richey and later Oldsmar, driven by a commitment to fresh, high-quality coffee. The addition of a Cortez store in 2020 further solidified their regional presence. Their menu grew too, adding nitro cold brew, pastries, and grab-and-go snacks. The blueberry and Nutella pop pastries became instant customer favorites, drawing rave reviews for their homemade quality.
But growth didn’t overshadow community ties. They hosted events, stayed open later on Fridays, and prioritized friendly service. Locals began calling Mountaineer a neighborhood hub, where regulars shared stories over expertly brewed cups.
The coffee’s quality starts with sourcing. Beans come from global producers, including award-winning farms and specialty importers in Africa. Each batch is taste-tested before approval, ensuring only the best reach customers.
Roasting occurs daily at their flagship shop across from Patricia’s Boutique, filling the air with rich aromas. Stores open at 6:30 a.m., closing around 7 p.m., though some locations stay open later for events or evening drinks.
Beyond coffee, Mountaineer enhanced Brooksville’s economy by hiring locally and partnering with nearby suppliers. They also educated customers about brewing methods, deepening appreciation for their craft.
Social media posts showcasing new blends or nitro brews drew visitors, while word-of-mouth praise spread their reputation.
Once a quiet Florida town, Brooksville now thrives as an unexpected coffee destination. Mountaineer’s mix of quality, community, and passion turned casual drinkers into devoted fans.
Its success proves that even small towns can brew big things when heart and flavor lead the way.
