Kuppa Joe, a family-run coffee shop on West Franklin, quietly opened its doors on Saturday, Feb. 14, aiming to become a go-to neighborhood hangout. Owner Darrin Trapp says he wanted a relaxed spot where people can sit down, see familiar faces and take their time over a cup of coffee. The former ice cream storefront at 3888 W. Franklin Blvd is now serving caffeine instead of cones, with the Trapp family welcoming customers inside.
Family story behind the name
Trapp named Kuppa Joe in honor of his sister Karen, who died in 2016, and his brother Joe, who died last year. He describes the shop as a deeply personal project he finally felt ready to take on. As reported by the Gaston Gazette, the family plans to let community demand guide their hours and services while they get to know what locals actually want from the space. Trapp told the paper he felt it was the right moment to do something for himself, and this coffee shop is that something.
Family behind the counter
"I hope Kuppa Joe feels like a space for people to enjoy coffee with family and friends," Darrin told the Gaston Gazette. His son Darien, who recently turned 21, is stepping into the managerial side of the business, while Dalavon Trapp works behind the bar. That family-run rhythm, Trapp says in the interview, should help the shop ease into regular hours and offerings that sync up with the neighborhood instead of forcing a corporate schedule onto it.
Where to find it
Kuppa Joe sits at 3888 W. Franklin Blvd in the same space that previously housed Sweet Scoops ice cream, according to MapQuest. As they settle in, the Trapps are expected to fine-tune opening times and menu options while they track peak hours and customer preferences.
A local spot to linger
Inside, Kuppa Joe leans into a living-room vibe, with couches, soft lighting and family photos setting the tone. It is designed less for a quick dash in and out and more for lingering conversations and unhurried work sessions. For residents along West Franklin, it adds another locally owned spot where neighbors can meet up, plug in or catch up over coffee.
