Be Caffeinated is a fast-growing drive-thru coffee shop with multiple locations around Chattanooga. A lot has happened since they first started and so much more is to come. I had the great oppourtunity to sit down with Chris Wood, co-owner of Be Caffeinated, to learn more about this growing local coffee shop.
The Start of Be Caffeinated
College friends Chris Wood and Doug Lee utilize their knowledge and business experience in owning and operating the Be Caffeinated coffee shops.
Be Caffeinated started in Red Bank in July 2019. This first location sits in what used to be a Central Park Restaurant. The tiny, dual drive-thru building makes it the perfect place for serving great coffee and local goodies.
Be Caffeinated first started by teaming up with local coffee roasters. Their drip coffee was from Velo and their espresso was from Mad Priest. But these days they now roast their own. More on that later.
Local roasters isn’t the only thing. They’ve been partnering with other local businesses since day one as well. Desserts, bakery items, and chai are just a few things they offer that are made locally in Chattanooga outside of Be Caffeinated.
In March 2020 they opened shop in the Chattanooga State Community College by the cafeteria. But unfortunately they had to close due to the pandemic. However, they reopened in August 2021 for the new school year and have been open every school year since.
The Northshore location opened in November 2020. This location was chosen to begin coffee roasting operations. As a bonus, this location also has covered patio seating and a drive-thru as well. Parking is available in non-reserved spots on the first and third floors of the parking garage. Street parking can be found around the area too.
The Heart of Be Caffeinated
The slogan is “Be Happy. Be Caffeinated.” Chris and Doug believe that with that comes the responsibilty to put their employees first. In order to achieve happy customers, you need to have happy employees.
Not only do they strive to keep their employees happy, they also love to support the community. From buying as many items locally as possible to supporting local charities, Be Caffeinated is very people focused. At the end of the day, their mission is to take care of the people around them in everything that they do.
New Wave Coffee Roasters
Luke Pigott is an experienced coffee roaster who has worked for years perfecting his craft. He’s even won several awards for his coffee roasting skills. Chris and Doug were able to acquire his expertise for their new coffee roasting brand, New Wave.
When you purchase a bag of New Wave Coffee, you’ll notice the names point to musical themes. This is because each roast is inspired by music. Coffee and music actually have a lot in common and New Wave brings this to life with every bag of coffee. I have personally tried Feedback and Work Juice and love them both a lot.
Be Caffeinated Locations
Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 6AM-6PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 7AM-7PM
Drive-thru and seating areas
Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 6AM-6PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 7AM-5PM
Drive-thru only
Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 6AM-6PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 7AM-3PM
Drive-thru only
Closing Thoughts
I love that their focus is more on the people than the product. When you focus on the people, the product, customer love, and everything else will follow. It’s only been two years for Be Caffeinated so far and you can already tell this business model is a winner.
To learn more about Be Caffeinated, check out the Story Behind the Business Chatt I had with Chris Wood on YouTube.
Until then, go get some Be Caffeinated coffee and enjoy exploring Chatt!
