The Vestibule Coffee & Tea

During our recent visit to my sister and brother-in-law’s current home town of Clinton, South Carolina, my sister introduced us to The Vestibule Coffee & Tea. The coffee shop has a homey feel to it with its comfortable couches and vintage finds that the owner, Isaac Martin has picked up. There is also a story behind the name of the coffee shop, which Isaac shared with us during our conversation about how he decided to open up a coffee shop in Clinton.

A vestibuled train is a passenger train whose cars have enclosed vestibules at their ends, in contrast to the open platforms on early cars.

The Vestibule was the nickname of a train car that went through Clinton, SC to large cities such as New York City beginning in the 1920’s (and according to several customers was still in service in the 1940’s). Isaac did lots of research on the train car before opening up his shop, and he has a vintage red train lantern on display along with other vintage finds. It’s a red light although it looks blue when not lit up. It’s the gold flecks in the glass that turn the light red per Isaac. Even the loyalty card is based on an old train ticket.

Through our conversation with Isaac it was clear that he has a true passion for the community and creating relationships and friendships with those who visit his coffee shop many who attend the nearby Presbyterian College, a private liberal arts college. His walls have art from local painters, and there are also cigar box instruments made by a local artisan. He also plans to display artwork from local elementary school students in future.

Peach Pear Apricot Smoothie

Vintage Red Train Lantern

Isaac strives to keep things locally sourced. His coffee comes from Traveler’s Rest, South Carolina and his teas come from the Charleston Tea Plantation.