Latino-Owned Coffee Shop Java Plus Opens In Aurora

AURORA, IL — On top of National Small Business Week, Friday was National Beverage Day, and Aurora celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Latino-owned coffee shop Java Plus.

Located at 1677 Montgomery Road, Java Plus reopened Friday under new ownership. The coffee house specializes in air-roasted coffee from South America, Mexico, Ethiopia, Indonesia and the Middle East, according to city officials. Patrons can choose from more than 25 different artisan loose-leaf and blended teas as well as handmade baked goods and paninis.

Besides its own products, Java Plus partners with local small businesses, including Ms. Jana's Candy, Jake's Bagel and My Sister's Lil Donut Shoppe, to sell a variety of products.

With the shop, owners Javier Burgos and Dan Okoniewski hope to provide the best quality beverages and food while serving as a meeting and gathering place for the community, according to Chief Communications Officer Clayton Muhammad.

"You can come in for something during the day or in the evening to enjoy a music night, craft shows, neighborhood meeting, or study group," officials said in a Facebook post. "It is a true gathering spot for the community."

The newest coffee shop on Aurora's east side is open from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday; from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday; and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.