Small Town Coffee, Big World Impact

Her vision was simple – to create “a place for people to gather and to serve great coffee.”

What do Burgaw, Ethiopia and coffee all have in common? 

Brown Dog Coffee Company. 

“Drink coffee, walk your dog, and enjoy life,” is Michelle Hilliard’s mantra. While Hilliards’s journey didn’t specifically point her towards a career in the coffee industry, it certainly influenced her. Growing up around Burgaw and fond of her tight-knit community, she discovered her passion for empowering others. Later, she pursued a career of mission work, traveling abroad to help in development and expand her philanthropy. Following her years of travel, Hilliard found herself back to where she began – home.

Hilliard helped with Brown Dog Coffee for a year before becoming owner herself in 2018. Her vision was simple – to create “a place for people to gather and to serve great coffee.” And that she did. Her coffee is roasted in house, and with her small-batch brew, each cup of coffee is consistent. Sourced from places like Honduras, Kenya, and Guatemala, you can sip easily, knowing you’re drinking fair-trade coffee with both a positive local and global impact. 

Brown Dog offers a variety of roasts, cafe au lait, cold brews, teas, frappes, espresso drinks, smoothies and shakes. 

The recent launch of their Brown Dog Coffee Camper has added a mobile component to the mix. Now, the great coffee from downtown Burgaw can travel to community gatherings, farmer’s markets, private events and more.

If you find yourself looking to “Drink coffee, walk your dog, and enjoy life,” Brown Dog Coffee Co. is the place to be. Find your cup at 103 W Fremont Street in Burgaw, North Carolina. 

Those outside of Burgaw can order Brown Dog’s coffee subscription service that ships every two weeks to your home or office.