Welcome to Commando Coffee Co. in Amherst, Ohio

A New Mission Brews in Amherst: Commando Coffee Co. Reopens with Heart, Purpose and a Killer Cup of Coffee

There’s a new name brewing on Park Avenue in downtown Amherst — but locals will recognize the address. What was once Sandstone Coffee has reopened as Commando Coffee Co., and it’s more than just a fresh coat of paint. With new ownership, a renovated space, and a mission grounded in service and connection, Commando Coffee is already drawing loyal regulars.

A Fresh Start with Familiar Roots

Owners Stephen and Genevieve Long bought the shop earlier this year. After months of hands-on work, they opened this fall with a space that reflects their values and their story.

“We wanted to build something that felt personal,” said Stephen, a U.S. Air Force veteran. “Something that honors where we’ve been and where we’re going.”

From 2011 to 2018, Stephen served in a special operations unit with the MC-130 Commando II aircraft. The name of the coffee shop is a nod to that chapter of his life.

While the name and mission reflect military service, the shop is open to everyone.

“We want people to feel comfortable here, whether they’re stopping in after church, coming by with a friend, or just need a quiet moment and a good cup of coffee.”

Serving Up More Than Coffee

The shop sits steps away from the Veterans Mural on Park Avenue. Inside, customers find a warm, updated space with new furniture, thoughtful details and a lineup of handcrafted drinks made with Crimson Cup coffee.

The menu includes espresso classics, seasonal lattes, smoothies and more. For breakfast and lunch, the shop serves fresh-baked pastries from Hometown Bakery and sandwiches made with locally sourced sourdough.

Roasted by Crimson Cup, the house coffee line features roasts like The General, The Sergeant and The Private — a playful nod to military ranks with serious flavor profiles.

Stephen and Genevieve work side by side. He handles the day-to-day operations; she manages the finances behind the scenes while also working in her family business.

Learning the Ropes with Crimson Cup

Neither had experience running a coffee shop when they started. To prepare, they turned to our 7 Steps to Success program — a comprehensive guide for independent shops that covers everything from training to equipment to menu design.

“I didn’t have to figure it out on my own,” Stephen said. “The training, the support, the people — they made it possible for us to take over and grow this business with confidence in our own unique brand story.”

Building Community, One Cup at a Time

Commando Coffee has already launched a monthly event in partnership with the Volunteers of America’s SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. On the third Saturday of each month, veterans receive free coffee and muffins, with space to connect or simply be around others who understand their experiences.

They’re also planning a Hero Wall, where guests can post photos of people they admire. Half of the proceeds will go to support veterans’ nonprofits.

Stop In and Be Part of the Story

Whether you’re a coffee regular or just passing through Amherst, Commando Coffee Co. offers a chance to slow down, sip something good and be part of a story that’s still unfolding.

The shop is open seven days a week at 254 Park Ave. You can follow their journey at commandocoffeeco.com and on social media at facebook.com/commandocoffee254.