Elixir Vitae: Rowan’s Mobile Café

Hello, my name is Rowan Stewart. Depending on when or where we met, you may know me as Josh. Or Zil. Or just that barista with the hat.

Over a decade ago, I moved to Kansas City with just a backpack full of clothes and nothing else to my name. In that time, I was able to find and build a life for myself in the local coffee industry and have been fortunate enough to run some of the most esteemed cafes in this city.

I was incredibly successful in growing these businesses reliably year after year. Even leading them strongly through the pandemic. (Having over 50% growth in 2020.) But I had never really considered starting my own shop due to a lack of capital and the inability to get a business loan. However, after having friends and family encourage me to try, I am looking to start my own shop by fundraising here.

Initially, I will not be able to afford a location.

So my goal is to start small with a mobile espresso cart and a brewed coffee delivery service and build up from there. Beginning with something I can take in my car and set up at farmers' markets, weddings and private events.

The name I’ve settled on for this venture is Elixir Vitae.

Elixir Vitae, or the elixir of life, was the mythical potion that would grant eternal youth. And was one of the ultimate goals of medieval alchemy. Similarly, I feel that coffee experiences should feel like we’ve discovered that potion for ourselves. Either in flavor, caffeine or both. They should feel and taste like magic.

Please, if you can donate here or in some other way or would like to know more first. Reach out to me. I’d love to share more thoughts and hear what you have to say. Thank you to everyone for all your love and support. Anything you can give will help. Thank you. I appreciate you.

-Rowan