About us

Progress Coffee began, in 2004, as a small café tucked in a warehouse on Austin’s east side long before any mid- or high-rises dotted the sky. Progress became the trailblazer for the area and a community gathering spot for those who lived and worked in East Austin. It became an eclectic mix of artists, musicians and designers mixed with original East Side residents. Progress operated successfully for over 10 years in the same spot and remains a beloved memory throughout the area. During the time as a café, we lived the pain of sourcing consistent high-quality roasted coffee for several years. In 2009, we decided to roast our own coffee in order to provide stability in offerings. Progress became one of the first ever Whole Foods Local Producer Loan recipients which allowed us to begin roasting coffee. We continue to roast by the senses with no automation and know the coffee is just right by the sounds, sights and aromas presented throughout the roasting process. We always missed the community facing aspect that the café provides. We started to look for opportunities just as the pandemic hit and had to postpone plans but have since opened two new cafes. The first was in central Austin, now closed due to IH 35 expansion, and the next was in Buda on the east side of IH 35. We have had so many friends and family move just south of Austin that it made perfect sense to grow with the community. We opened in Buda in 2023 and have quickly become the local neighborhood spot for any occasion!