Lake City–Florida’s Springlands is proud to be the home of several up-and-coming foodie establishments, with a focus on locally sourced flavors. One of these exciting businesses that captures the heart and soul of our charming downtown is XAPA Coffee & Bakery.
We sat down with owners Megan and JoyAnnett to learn more about XAPA, including its genesis, connection to the local community, and made-from-scratch (and delicious!) menu. Keep reading to deep dive into their journey, the soul of XAPA, and tips for running a successful small business!
OPENING XAPA
When envisioning their dream business, JoyAnnett and Megan, two best friends, knew they wanted to create a warm, welcoming, and friendly environment that would bring joy to every customer. Inspired by this vision, they chose the name “Xapa,” derived from the Greek word χαρά (chara), meaning “joy.”
Can you share a little about the background of XAPA Coffee & Bakery? What inspired you to start this business?
“XAPA Coffee & Bakery is the realization of two best friends’ lifelong dreams and passion. Between us, we have decades of experience in creating hand-crafted beverages and pastries, and we are now blessed enough to share our love with the world.
We wanted a place where people could have an experience with friends, family, professionals, and new relationships formed locally–whether sitting outside on the patio, inside on the cozy couch, or out front enjoying the historical views of our town. We also wanted them to enjoy beautifully crafted drinks made from scratch and in-house baked items sourced from as many local businesses as possible.”
How did you choose the location for XAPA Coffee & Bakery in Lake City?
“Fred from Fred’s Leather Shop, Megan’s father-in-law, purchased the location. Once we saw the property, we joked about how perfect it would be. Megan/Kyle and Micah/JoyAnnett chatted outside about the dream and agreed to make it a reality. For the next 2 ½ years, we all worked tirelessly (with the help of friends and family) on turning the dream into a reality.”
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UNIQUE OFFERINGS
At XAPA, you can enjoy a new treat every time you visit with over 50 bakery options, all skillfully crafted by five talented bakers. “There are way more options than anticipated, but it’s what our customers have loved and come to expect,” JoyAnnett shares.
With so many options to choose from (including hand-crafted beverages, too!), we thought we’d ask the owners to fill us in on some of their personal favorites.
What are some of the most popular items on your menu? Do you have any personal favorites?
JoyAnnett: “All the flavors, syrups, and sauces are all crafted and made in-house. The current new flavor is pear brown sugar cinnamon and is a sauce. I had wanted to share this creation for seven months before launching. This summer, I’ve offered more flavor options than ever as customers beg me to keep their favorites. There are 17 unique house-made options to choose from. These flavors can be added to your latte, coffee, matcha, blended lattes, and a customer-favorite: cold foam.
My personal favorites are an iced triple shot rosemary vanilla latte in the morning and an iced raspberry matcha with raspberry cold foam in the afternoon. I’m also obsessed with the Jalapeño White Cheddar Bagels and Quiche.”
Megan: “The most popular bakery item is my signature macarons, which started my passion for baking along with the British Baking Show. Currently, my personal favorite is an iced triple shot pear brown sugar cinnamon latte with ricotta toast (made on my house-made sourdough and house-made ricotta created from local milk).”
THE SPIRIT OF XAPA
At the heart of XAPA Coffee & Bakery lies a deep passion for family, community, and exceptional craftsmanship. We asked Megan and JoyAnnett to share their thoughts on what makes running XAPA so special and how their dedication to these values shapes their business.
What do you love most about running XAPA Coffee & Bakery?
“Being able to work with the ones we love the most: our family. Creating memories and moments with the community and sharing our passion.”
Can you share a memorable story or moment that has happened at XAPA?
“During the latest hurricane, when others were without power, Downtown Lake City had power, and we were able to open and serve emergency workers, linemen, and customers.”
Are there any cultural or family traditions that influence how you run XAPA?
“We both agreed that family time is the most important, and we close on all major holidays, giving the staff and ourselves time with the ones we love.”
What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own coffee shop or bakery?
“It’s surprisingly a lot more work than you would expect! But if you love it and have a passion for it–and who you are working with–then it will be well worth the work required.”
How has XAPA Coffee & Bakery evolved since it first opened, and what are your future plans for the business?
“We would love to open a second location with a large commercial kitchen to offer even more options and serve wholesale to local businesses.”
CONNECTION TO LAKE CITY
“I was immediately drawn to Lake City because of the small-town atmosphere and friendly residents,” Megan explains. This affection for the community is evident in XAPA Coffee & Bakery’s active involvement in local events and initiatives.
What is one thing you wish more people knew about Lake City?
“That the downtown area is worth a visit. It’s up-and-coming with the new shops, the Blanche, the brewery, and local events.”
How do you engage with the Lake City community? Are there any local events or initiatives that you participate in?
“Most recently, we partnered and participated in the Florida Community College Foundation’s first annual point4 run to support college education and the growth of our youth. We had the absolute best time handing out java chiller, matcha, and refreshers to the runners, and we look forward to next year’s event!
We participated in the farm-to-table local event held downtown and are hosting a panting night fundraiser. Another event we are proud to bring to Lake City is the annual Latte Art Throwdown, first held on Nov 18th, 2023. We share the art and love of coffee while involving our community and inspiring our youth. We want to have more events that combine education with coffee and baking.”
Do you have any other favorite local businesses or eateries that you think visitors should check out?
“Fred’s Leather Shop, Frankie’s, Marion Street Bistro, and Astraea Boutique. Halpatter Brewery, Beartree Pottery, Brittany’s Cupcake Shoppe, WJ’s Store, and downtown art shops.”
XAPA Coffee & Bakery is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee; it’s a destination where passion, friendship, community, and exceptional made-in-house flavors come together. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Lake City–Florida’s Springlands, XAPA promises a delightful experience that you’ll want to repeat time and time again.
