Grady Rae’s opens in Licking

By Shari Harris, Publisher

There’s a new option in town for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just a little pick-me-up during the day – Grady Rae’s Coffee Company.

Located on Highway 63 across from College Street on the south side of Licking, Grady Rae’s joins Farmgirl Floral Boutique and McCoy and Co. Mercantile. The coffee shop offers a drive through, or you can order inside and dine at their picnic table in front of the building.

Don’t underestimate Grady Rae’s; it’s not just for coffee. They have a varied menu of items, starting with breakfast, where you can order biscuits and gravy, fresh muffins, or yogurt parfaits topped with granola and fresh fruit.

Sandwiches and wraps are available for lunch and dinner, and you can order them with a side salad or a pasta salad. If you’re in the mood for a full salad, there are delicious choices there as well.

Now for the beverages – basic and specialty coffees are available, including iced coffees. Plenty of flavors, sauces and other add ons can be chosen to make a beverage uniquely yours. Loaded teas, Red Bulls, sodas, flavored lemonades and cowboy smoothies are also on the menu, again with a variety of flavors to personalize your drink.

If that doesn’t tempt your taste buds, Grady Rae’s also has ice cream. Just in time for summer – cones, cups or banana splits can be had, with a variety of flavors. Owner Emily Burnett’s daughter, Sayge, personally recommended the strawberry ice cream, while brother Dustin suggested cookie dough ice cream, which has been ordered.

Expect to find soups on the menu beginning in the fall. Other changes which Burnett hopes to see come to fruition include inside seating.

Burnett opened her first Grady Rae’s location in Houston, and is excited to be opening her second location in Licking.

“I’m thankful we are able to expand to our hometown,” she said.

With the variety of beverage options and sizes, at a reasonable price, the friendly faces greeting you at Grady Rae’s are sure to be busy. You may call ahead to preorder at 417-260-6094. Their hours are 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – noon on Saturday, and some Saturday evenings. Burnett encourages customers to follow their Facebook page, where she announces special openings or items, like charcuterie boxes. Also watch for their Grand Opening, which will be upcoming.

Stop in or drive through and treat yourself to a specialty drink or ice cream, and don’t forget a sandwich, wrap or salad for lunch or dinner! Their address is 315 Highway 63, Licking.