Paul and Donna Malone: The Story Behind Malone Specialty Coffee’s Success

‍

TLDR

Paul and Donna Malone didn’t set out to start a coffee business - they just wanted a better cup of coffee. In 2013, after struggling to find a brew that didn’t need loads of sugar and cream to taste good, Paul decided to start roasting coffee at home. What began as a personal quest quickly became a passion, leading to the creation of Malone Specialty Coffee, a brand that now has four locations across Austin and continues to grow.

From their early days of backyard roasting and selling at farmers’ markets to launching multiple cafés and a catering service, the Malones have built something special—a coffee shop where quality, consistency, and community come first.

‍

From Backyard Roasting to a Thriving Coffee Business

The journey started with a simple idea: coffee should taste great on its own. Paul experimented with different beans and roasting techniques, determined to bring out the natural flavors without relying on sweeteners or additives.

In 2017, the Malones took a leap and launched their first coffee trailer, making their fresh-roasted coffee accessible to more people. Paul left his corporate job, dedicating himself full-time to the business. Within a year, they had three mobile coffee shops, and by 2019, the first brick-and-mortar café and roastery opened its doors.

Today, Malone Specialty Coffee is known for its commitment to freshness, expertly crafted drinks, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether customers are stopping in for a quick espresso, settling in with a laptop, or catching up with friends, the café is designed to feel inviting and accessible to everyone.

Their hands-on approach to coffee roasting ensures that every batch meets their high standards. Malone’s motto, “Coffee so good you can drink it black,” is reflected in their carefully selected specialty-grade beans and meticulous roasting process.

Their attention to customer service sets them apart. If a drink isn’t quite right, they’ll remake it—quality and satisfaction are always top priorities. The team is knowledgeable and passionate, always eager to share insights on their coffee, brewing methods, and the roasting process.

‍