Nestled in the vibrant heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Passenger Coffee & Tea has spent over a decade perfecting the art of sourcing and sharing some of the world’s finest coffees and teas. Since opening their doors in the spring of 2014, Passenger has seamlessly blended a passion for quality with an unwavering commitment to meaningful, long-term partnerships. From humble beginnings serving coffee from a charmingly modified Airstream trailer, Passenger now operates two beloved cafés and a bustling roasting facility downtown.
Passenger’s philosophy emphasizes creating meaningful connections—between farmers and consumers, local and global communities, and exceptional products with everyday experiences. Central to their business is a dedication to transparency and sustainability. By meticulously selecting and freezing their green (unroasted) coffee beans, Passenger ensures every cup brewed remains as vibrant and flavorful as when the beans were first harvested, honoring the work of their farmer-partners.
The cornerstone of Passenger’s business is their “Foundational Partnerships,” long-term, farmer-focused relationships spanning East Africa, Central America, South America, and South Asia. These partnerships allow Passenger to consistently offer exceptional coffees sourced from carefully selected farms year after year. By focusing deeply on fewer producers, Passenger promotes sustainability in quality and economics, ensuring a fairer, more equitable industry where farmers can thrive.
This approach not only strengthens Passenger’s coffee quality but also fosters a greater sense of community and mutual success. Farmers gain the stability needed to reinvest in their operations, continuously improving their harvest and overall quality of life.
When in Lancaster, visiting Passenger’s cafés is an absolute must. The Flagship Cafe on King Street invites visitors to savor single-origin espresso, indulge in expertly prepared pour-overs, or unwind at the tranquil Gongfu tea bar. Each beverage at Passenger is an invitation to slow down and truly appreciate the craftsmanship and complexity behind every sip.
Nearby, Passenger’s Roastery & Coffee Bar offers another inviting space nestled at the front of their roasting facility. Here, visitors enjoy a rotating menu of coffees, teas, and pastries, all while glimpsing the meticulous roasting process that ensures Passenger’s renowned quality. It’s the perfect spot for a behind-the-scenes look into their careful and precise roasting practices.
Beyond their cafés, Passenger’s ethical practices resonate strongly throughout the broader coffee and tea industries. Their commitment to transparency is evident in their detailed annual Coffee Transparency Reports, openly sharing pricing and sourcing data for every pound of coffee they purchase. Additionally, Passenger actively contributes data to the Specialty Coffee Transaction Guide (SCTG), reinforcing industry-wide accountability and fairness.
Their dedication to ethical sourcing and community engagement has firmly rooted Passenger within Lancaster’s culture. The charming Airstream café at Prince Street Pop-up Park remains a beloved community gathering spot, reflecting Passenger’s growth from local favorite to global advocate for sustainable coffee and tea production.
At Hollinger House Historic Boutique Hotel, we take pride in highlighting local businesses that enhance our community, and Passenger Coffee & Tea perfectly exemplifies this spirit. Whether you’re savoring a quiet moment over a meticulously brewed cup or exploring the rich stories behind each selection, Passenger offers a genuinely memorable experience. When visiting Lancaster, be sure to stop by Passenger—to pause, savor, and immerse yourself in exceptional flavors and meaningful connections.
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