This year, Black Hills Coffee Company celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of roasting and delivering high-quality coffee to the Black Hills region and beyond. What began as a small roasting operation in a garage has evolved into a well-loved brand with a deep commitment to quality, community, and adventure.
Founded in 1995 by Jim DeForrest, Black Hills Coffee Company was born out of a passion for specialty coffee and a desire to bring something better to Rapid City. Inspired by his passion and palate for good tasting coffee, Jim returned to the Midwest and began roasting small batches of coffee at home, sharing his creations with friends and fellow truck drivers. Armed with a Diedrich 12 kg drum roaster and a drive to introduce high-quality coffee to the area, he built lasting relationships with local businesses, coffee shops, restaurants, and visitors throughout the Black Hills.
Over the years, the company expanded, moving into larger facilities, diversifying into espresso machines and cafe supplies, and even opening a retail coffee house and eventual restaurant (Stonewalls Kitchen). Jim’s focus on customer service, training, and quality set Black Hills Coffee Company apart in an emerging specialty market.
In March 2024, the company entered an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Nick Van Dyne and Patrick Schuster. Carrying forward the legacy built by Jim, Nick and Patrick bring their shared love for coffee, the Black Hills, and life’s adventures to the business. While preserving the original blends perfected over 30 years, they have also infused their own energy, connecting with wholesale and retail customers and growing the brand’s local footprint.
Currently operating out of their humble roasting facility at 1620 Mount Rushmore Road, Black Hills Coffee Company continues to serve individual and wholesale customers as well as local organizations. Their coffee can be found in several Rapid City locations, including Staple & Spice Market, Alex Johnson Mercantile, and Prairie Edge Trading Co.. Additionally, they offer coffee catering services and have plans to offer local pickup and storefront hours in the near future.
Check out their website to see which coffee products you might enjoy, including one of the four Mount Rushmore presidential blends, Black Hills Gold espresso, or one of the many delicious flavors: www.blackhillscoffee.com.