Stone Creek Coffee has developed a reputation for its commitment to "farm to cup" sourcing – the belief that coffee is best sourced directly from farmers, rather than through brokers – and the idea that the stories behind the coffee are just as important as the coffee itself.
As an extension of their commitment, they will be sponsoring a one night only showing of the acclaimed coffee movie, "A Film About Coffee" on Thursday, Sept. 18 at the historic Oriental Theatre, 2230 N. Farwell Ave.
The film, which focuses on the art and philosophy behind specialty coffee, examines what it takes, and what it means, for coffee to be defined as ‘specialty.’ But, potentially more importantly, the movie focuses on the people behind the coffee.
"What I’ve realized is that no matter the quality of your cup, people who love coffee, love it," says film director Brandon Loper. "Coffee is about people, and people are what I’m interested in ultimately."
The film transports the audience on a trip around the world, from farms in Honduras and Rwanda to coffee shops in Tokyo, Portland, Seattle, San Francisco and New York. Through the eyes and experiences of farmers and baristas, the film offers a unique overview of all the elements – the processes, preferences and preparations, and traditions both old and new – that come together to create the best cups.
"I saw this movie one evening while my wife and I were in Seattle for the 2014 SCAA conference," says Stone Creek Coffee owner Eric Resch. "As we watched, I couldn’t help but be impressed by how they slowly and beautifully explain why Specialty Coffee is so… special.
"The film beautifully captures the wonder that is coffee, and the interconnectedness between human beings of such diverse cultures. The inspiring and mutual respect for something grown from the earth and delivered to people all over the world is truly humbling."
For a sneak peek at the movie, watch the trailer.
The showing will take place at the Oriental Theatre on Thursday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.). Tickets are $10 and will go on sale starting Monday, Aug. 11 at stonecreekcoffee.com or at area Stone Creek Coffee cafes.
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.