The Star Valley Chamber of Commerce proudly announces Afton Coffee Company and Bistro, owned by Jack Swensen, as the Business of the Month for December. Established in May 2024, Afton Coffee Company has quickly become a local favorite, offering a diverse menu of coffee, sandwiches, and more.

In a recent interview, Swensen expressed his excitement for the recognition. “I appreciate this invitation from Bob and for Duke facilitating this. We started with Jack’s Stand Hot Dog food truck in 2022 and felt the need to provide more in this area,” he said. This led to the rebranding of the business to include a wider selection of food and beverages.

Afton Coffee Company specializes in high-quality coffee and a variety of non-coffee drinks, including specialties such as hot root beer steamers and Italian sodas. “What we have to offer is amazing coffee,” Swensen stated. The menu features panini sandwiches—including popular options like the Italian and the Hot Rod—alongside seasonal soups.

Swensen shared insights into his entrepreneurial journey, which began with a simple idea to sell hot dogs. “They always said, ‘What are you going to do when you retire?’ I thought, ‘I’ll sell hot dogs,’” he laughed, reminiscing about starting with a retrofitted horse trailer.

The business not only focuses on food and drinks but also community engagement. Swensen’s daughter runs Love Family Studios, right next store to Afton Coffee Co. providing paint-your-own pottery classes that have attracted various community groups. “It’s a lot of good fun, especially in the colder months,” Swensen noted.

Looking ahead, Swensen plans to enhance the café’s offerings with more cold sandwiches and mocktails, while creating a cozy environment where patrons can relax or work. “We’re expanding the seating area to make it less gift shop and more restaurant,” he explained.

Afton Coffee Company is located at 468 South Washington, just south of the arch on the west side of the road. For more information, customers can visit their website, Facebook, and Instagram page, Jack’s Stand / Afton Coffee Co & Bistro.

Swensen’s story exemplifies the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in Star Valley. As Robert King from the Chamber of Commerce noted, “This is a shining great example of a thriving business that’s operating in the area.”