Not all coffee is made equally, which is especially true when many coffee shops populate the area. In Quincy, coffee shops can practically be found on every corner. Many shops cater to the quick drive-thru experience, with few sticking to the traditional sit-down café style experience. With coffee, lotus, teas, and baked goods fueling the community, which coffee is preferred when fueling Quincy citizens?

There are coffee shops in Quincy that have championed individuals, as they have become the preferred stop to purchase morning fuel. Carter’s Coffee Bar is overwhelmingly the favorite amongst individuals, leaving little room for recommendations to other local shops in town due to what seems like a cult following.

“I like Carter’s the most. I like how it’s consistent and quick, but it also just tastes good every time. It doesn’t matter if you order lotus or coffee, it’s always good,” JD Vogel said.

The growth of lotus in the area has kept people energized to say the least. A form of caffeine, seemingly only popular in Quincy and surrounding areas. A plant-based energy, labelled as a healthy alternative when consuming caffeine. Lotus drinks come in various colors, flavors, and sizes, all of which winning over those who choose to indulge.

Despite the overwhelming saturation, local coffee shops continue to open in town, offering individuals a chance to choose their local favorite. Carter’s continues to reign champion, even amongst those who are not local.

“When I am in town, I prefer Carter’s. Growing up, there were a lot of coffee shops that aren’t even open anymore. But, I can say with what Quincy has now, Carter’s is the best,” Kymber Funk said.

“I prefer Carter’s, especially since it is available in Columbia now. It provides a sense of home when I’m not actually in Quincy,” Kyrissa Funk said.

Carter’s has remained authentic to who they are serving and why. The coffee shop can be a pioneer to the area for drive-thru shops, that serve more than just coffee. They prioritize seasonal menus, keeping their menu’s broad so everyone can enjoy a drink. They also have merch available, that can be seen being worn all around Quincy.

Their branding is what makes them what they are, as their Instagram account stands out against the saturated coffee shop market in town. Remaining on brand and original when creating a business is important, especially when your audience is so large. Carter’s has shown that this is important, through their continued success amongst every car that decides to come through their drive-thru.