Skip to content
Loading image:

Our Story

Bear Lake Coffee Co., a Certified B Corp, is dedicated to exceptional coffee, farmers around the world, and the local community we call home. We craft every cup with a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and giving back—donating 2% of revenue to the communities we serve. Coffee that’s good for you, the planet, and the people who make it possible.

Bear Lake Team

Loading image:

Gabe Damiani

Founder & Head Roaster

Gabe Damiani is an entrepreneur and visionary committed to a better tomorrow, with over two decades immersed in coffeehouses worldwide. As a Licensed Q Grader, CVA Certified Cupper, and SCA Roasting Professional, his expertise extends beyond building a business—it’s about crafting a blueprint for positive impact on humanity and the planet. Through Bear Lake Coffee, Gabe has created more than a coffeehouse and roastery; he has built a beacon of hope that demonstrates how even from the most remote corners of the world, meaningful change can be made.

Loading image:

Carmen Wenger

Café Manager & Assistant Roaster

Carmen is a devoted coffee connoisseur who believes specialty coffee is far more than a beverage—it’s a bridge between people, cultures, and ideas. With a lifelong passion for the craft, she approaches every aspect of roasting with purpose, curiosity, and care. Her work is rooted in the belief that coffee can inspire connection and create positive change, from the farms where it’s grown to the communities where it’s shared. Through dedication to quality, sustainability, and authenticity, Carmen strives to craft coffee that not only tastes exceptional but also uplifts everyone it touches.

Loading image:

Katie Fischer

Kitchen Manager & Assistant Café Manager

Katie is the creative heart behind the food at Bear Lake Coffee! She’s the one dreaming up the delicious dishes that pair perfectly with your favorite Bear Lake beverage. From fresh breakfast bites to cozy lunch specials, Katie keeps our menu full of flavor and variety—sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible to ensure every plate is as fresh as it is flavorful. When she’s not in the kitchen and cafe, you’ll likely find Katie in her garden, exploring the great outdoors, or curled up with a good book.

Our Timeline So Far…

2022

We began roasting and delivering coffee from Atlanta, GA, operating exclusively online. That year, we acquired our future Barronett, WI, coffeehouse site—a historic general store—and partnered with UW–Madison students on a study to shape our northwest Wisconsin launch strategy.

2023

We worked with local artisans to restore and build a distinctive fourth-wave coffeehouse and roastery in Barronett. Designed as a renewable-energy powered “third place,” it was created to serve as a welcoming gathering spot for the community.

2024

We proudly became Wisconsin’s 24th Certified B Corporation — a milestone that underscores our commitment to a triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit. Soon after, we opened the doors to our first coffeehouse and roastery in Barronett, creating a warm, welcoming space where patrons can connect, relax, and recharge.

Blog posts

El Salvador’s 2025 Harvest with Carlos Pola

Just back from Juayúa, El Salvador! We cupped 20+ coffees, selected 5 standout microlots, and recorded Bean to Cup Ep. 2 with Carlos Pola. Arriving this summer!

What’s the Story Behind the Coffee You’re Drinking Today?

Celebrating 25 years of marriage in Portugal—stunning views, amazing food, and a coffee moment that reminded me why every cup should tell a story.

Top 1% of Specialty Coffees from the World Coffee Belt

Bear Lake Coffee Co. sources only the top 1% of specialty coffee beans worldwide, ensuring exceptional quality through expert Q-Grader evaluation and independent Coffee Review scoring. With a commitment to transparency, sustainability, and unparalleled taste, our mission is to bring the finest coffee experience to every cup.
Back to top