Sitting at 17806 Detroit Avenue is a gem of a coffee shop: Propaganda Coffee. This Lakewood exclusive first opened in July 2021 and has been a great addition to the community.
Propaganda Coffee offers a spacious layout that gives the feel of a sophisticated restaurant while serving bakery items, food, and beverages typical of a coffee shop. Erin Gerity, a customer at the café, said, “I really enjoy the atmosphere, and I think that it’s really nice that you’re served like a restaurant.”
Everything sold at the shop is soy-free, gluten-free, and vegan. This commitment is something that is difficult to find in a restaurant, and is very appreciated by their guests. Even though their products are free of gluten, soy, and animal-based ingredients, they do not sacrifice any flavor, texture, or consistency. They offer a wide variety of snacks, sweet treats, and even have breakfast and lunch options like biscuits and gravy, different toast options, wraps, and grilled cheese. The menu can satisfy any craving. The shop holds itself to high standards regarding these dietary restrictions, which customers respect.
The store also offers seasonal menu items; their fall menu featured all things pumpkin, including pumpkin lattes, chai, and muffins. To figure out their winter menu, customers will have to visit soon.
This coffee shop makes good use of its space, hosting sit-and-stitch groups and a book club, which meets on the first Thursday of every month. Right now, they are hosting a community food pantry in response to SNAP benefits being withheld. They are accepting non-perishable foods, hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, and pet food. Everyone is welcome to bring in items and take what they need. Propaganda supplied one shelf for donations, and it was overflowing with items—a true testament to Propaganda Coffee and the community they have behind them.
Propaganda Coffee manager Peter Anthony Caneta said he has “had the unique experience of being able to watch [Propaganda Coffee] grow over time.” As a three-year employee, he said, “The really fun part that [he] enjoys the most is talking to the people.” Customers can clearly see the care he shows everyone who walks through Propaganda Coffee’s doors, and he’s not the only one.
The entire staff reflects that same genuine warmth, which is especially nice as the weather is getting colder. It’s evident that, for them, this work is about more than just serving a cup of coffee, a pastry, or a sandwich. The employees are kind, personable, and always eager to help, whether customers are looking for a drink recommendation or have questions.
Lauren Lamparyk, a customer of the café, said, “The first time I went to Propaganda, I had no idea what I wanted to get, but the baristas were so supportive in finding and making me something delicious. They made my experience better through their care and hospitality.”
The café has grown and flourished, establishing a well-known and well-liked name in the Lakewood community, which is impressive given Lakewood’s high number of coffee shops. With schools getting out soon and the holidays coming up, Propaganda Coffee should be top of the list of places to stop in with any free time. The iced chai was delicious, and the chocolate chip cookie was the perfect sweet snack. Meet and connect with the people behind the coffee, and grab a delightful vegan, gluten-free, and soy-free bite to eat, too!
