From Bait Shop to Brew Spot: 121 Coffee Is Spartanburg’s Most Scenic Sip

Tucked away just behind WestGate Mall, a quiet surprise awaits: 121 Coffee, Spartanburg, SC’s newest locally owned spot with more to offer than just great drinks. What was once a bait shop has been completely transformed into a serene and scenic coffee destination with family-friendly charm, quiet places to sit, and a whole lot of heart. All it took was one peaceful morning by the water for this to become my absolute favorite place in Spartanburg to slow down and sip a drink.

Robust Flavor in Every Sip

When I walked into 121 Coffee and told the baristas it was my first time there, they were so sweet and talked me through so many of their great drinks and yummy treats! I’d seen many mouth-watering photos of their colorful cold drinks on their Facebook page, but even in the heat of summer, I am—at heart—a hot-coffee kind of girl.

A hot chai latte is my go-to at any new place, ever since I first tried one and felt like I was drinking Christmas in a cup. The girls behind the counter made it fast and fresh, and after just one sip, I knew I made the right call going with their largest size.

121 Coffee carries Roseline’s Oro blend, which brings together beans from Mexico and El Salvador to create coffee with notes of caramel and chocolate in the flavor. You’ll catch those tastes in many of their drinks, especially the espresso, but from what I hear, their cold drinks are also something special: sharp, fruity, and refreshing!

Stunning Serenity That Makes Unplugging a Breeze

I took my cup and headed back outside to find a seat, just taking in the view.

With a fountain in the middle of the main pond and reflections of the surrounding trees and sky, all the water features have such pretty hints of teal and turquoise in every ripple. When I visited, I found a shady spot in the grass on the far side of the pond and just took in the view. I saw geese going into the water for a dip, the tiniest baby turtle sunbathing near the water’s edge, and countless dragonflies dancing over the water. It was genuinely mesmerizing.

The ponds are surrounded by walkways which are primarily gravel, but do include some paved and natural portions. I saw a couple people walking their dogs, one group of friends walking together, and a few families letting children run along the paths. I have little ones, so I made a mental note to bring our chest carrier or all-terrain wagon for easy navigation over the gravel. It was so relaxing to just sit on the grass, but I plan to bring a picnic blanket next time so my kids can relax and play a safe distance from the water.

Seating Options for Any Occasion

The seating area nearest to the coffee shop is by far the most popular. It features a small deck looking out over the water and family-friendly music playing in the background. White linen curtains in the breeze and tiny string lights overhead created such an atmosphere of class and simplicity in that little space! There are several 4-person tables with umbrellas, perfect for a quick coffee date or even a business meeting. There is also a comfy corner couch and table that was perfect for the large family occupying it during my visit!

A stone’s throw away, near the primary parking lot, you’ll find another cozy seating area with several picnic tables in full sun. This is a gravel area with a great view of the smallest pond, access to the giant white heart swing, and close proximity to the restrooms. The restroom building is so well designed, too! It completely matches the look of the coffee shop, and right outside it sits a classic carriage—another one of the top photo spots at this location!

On the far side of the ponds, where I spent the majority of my visit, there are scattered benches along the trail. These may be in sun or shade depending on the time of day. The trail wraps around to a small dock where you could sit and dangle your feet over the water. Or, venture a little farther to find a paved platform with picnic tables and umbrellas to beat the summer sun.

Pro Tip: If you want privacy for your coffee date or conversation, head to the farthest seating area across the pond. There tend to be fewer people the farther you get from the coffee shop, and that particular seating area is set back from the water so sound will not carry across the ponds!

The Perfect Event Venue? They Thought of That, Too!

The answer is YES! Not only does 121 Coffee regularly host public events like car shows and holiday celebrations, but you can also rent their incredible outdoor spaces for private events and occasions. Depending on your rental arrangement, you can even take advantage of the fire pits, grills, and pizza oven onsite!

If you love the atmosphere around here, then go ahead and plan your next workout by the water, get-together with the girls, lively family reunion, romantic photo shoot, or anything else your heart desires with our new friends at 121 Coffee!