532 W Main Street
Trappe, PA 19426
It is 10:00 am on a Wednesday and an Ursinus student walks into Valerio Coffee Roasters with a backpack and a craving for coffee. The student is greeted with a warm “Welcome in!” while approaching the counter, their attention is caught by a board covered in descriptions of monthly coffee specials and fun drawings. Reaching the counter, the student is met with various menu choices. It’s a hard decision, but they decide on an iced latte with white chocolate and toasted marshmallow syrups. The barista said that it would be a good combination. The student asks for the latte with oat milk (as they should), and how could they leave without an almond croissant? These were very difficult decisions, but the student wasn’t worried; they’d be back to try more menu items next time. The student dropped their backpack next to a small table in the corner of the cafe and sat down with coffee, pastry, and computer, ready to get some work done.
As the month of November is coming to an end, members of the community do not want to miss out on some of the fall specials at Valerio Roasters. One of Trappe Cafe Manager Ashlynn Acosta’s personal favorites is their Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL), saying, “We’ve added a hint of ginger to enhance the pumpkin flavor in a subtle yet delightful way. This unique twist sets it apart from most pumpkin-flavored lattes, making it a must-try for anyone who enjoys the seasonal flavor.” Pumpkin Spice Lattes are a staple for the season, and fall is not over just yet. Acosta adds, “Pair it with one of our freshly baked pastries; you’ve got the perfect fall treat!”
Acosta has been the manager at Valerio Roasters in Trappe for about two months now. It has been quite an experience for her, especially with her coming on board during a major staff change. She explains that the most stressful part of her job is “ensuring that we maintain the Valerio coffee way while introducing new ideas and suggestions without straying too far from what our customers love.” Although there may be some stressful aspects, Acosta says, “I find joy in the challenge as I strive to make our space welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.”
In addition to persevering against some stress and challenges, Acosta describes the greatest part of her job, which are the connections that she makes with Valerio Roasters’ regulars. Acosta says, “Hearing their stories and learning about their lives adds so much richness to my daily routine. In a way, coffee shops create a sense of community where we can all take a moment to enjoy simple pleasures together.” Acosta, along with the baristas, brings a sense of genuineness to her interactions with customers, taking what might be seen as a traditional cafe and elevating it to a new standard of what a cafe should be. Acosta adds, “While I still have a lot to learn – and I apologize if I’ve confused names sometimes!”I am here to remember what matters to our customers, whether it’s their favorite order or a friendly chat.”
Yes, to passersby it may seem like a regular cafe, but, Acosta says, “People should come to Valerio in Trappe because we offer more than just great beverages. Our atmosphere is warm and inviting, and we strive to create an experience that feels like a little haven from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”
We at The Grizzly haven’t been bribed, we haven’t even been given a free coffee. We are just big fans! So, students at Ursinus College should take advantage of this “little haven,” whether it is to sit down and study in a cozy environment or just to stop by for a great (and by great, I mean life-changing) beverage. Valerio in Trappe is a special space, as Acosta says, “We pride ourselves on quality, not just in our drinks but in the relationships we build with our customers.”