Avon Coffee Shop Brings Mexican Heritage to Western Slope

As you step into House of Vibes Coffee and Curio on East Benchmark Road in Avon, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee envelops you, and the sound of lively chatter fills the air, immediately making you feel like you're in a welcoming space, worth the drive from anywhere on the Western Slope. But what sets this coffee shop apart from others in the valley is the rich Mexican heritage that owners Cristian Salas and Ana Hernandez have infused into every aspect of their business, from the traditional Mexican coffee drinks to the vibrant decor that reflects their cultural roots.

Salas and Hernandez, both locals who grew up in Gypsum and graduated from Eagle Valley High School, have a story that's as much about their love for each other as it is about their passion for coffee, a passion that was ignited during countless dates at coffee shops during the COVID pandemic, when not many other places were open. Their dream of opening a coffee shop together dates back to when they were just 19 and 20 years old, but it wasn't until years later, when they took over a coffee shop in Silverthorne, that their vision began to take shape. After successfully running the location in Summit County, they decided to bring their unique blend of coffee and culture closer to home, to the former Vail Lights space in Avon, which they meticulously transformed into a cozy and inviting spot that feels like someone's living room, if you look closely.

The couple's Mexican heritage is palpable in every detail, from the chocolate abuelita, a staple in any Mexican household, to the café de olla, a traditional Mexican coffee brewed in a pot and spiced to perfection, a drink that's sure to transport you to a different time and place. As Salas explains, "We wanted to bring in our heritage... we brought in the chocolate abuelita... and our café de olla is a traditional Mexican coffee." These signature drinks, along with seasonal creations, showcase the couple's commitment to sharing their culture with the community, and there's a warmth to their approach that makes you feel like you're part of the family.

But the coffee shop is more than just a labor of love that has been years in the making, with Salas and Hernandez pouring their hearts and souls into every aspect of the business, from the build-out of the space to the training of their staff. As Salas jokingly puts it, "It was a dream come true and a nightmare at the same time... it was a lot of fun and exciting but there's a lot of stress and work that went into it." The result, however, is well worth the effort, and locals are already flocking to the shop to experience the unique vibe and flavors that Salas and Hernandez have created, a vibe that's infectious and makes you want to linger over your coffee and conversation.

As you sit in the cozy atmosphere of this Avon coffee shop, surrounded by the vibrant colors and lively energy, you can't help but wonder what other hidden gems the shop has in store, and the answer, much like the couple's story, is full of surprises and delights. So, if you're looking for a coffee shop that's a little bit different, a little bit special, and a whole lot of delicious, then this is the place to go, and as you take your last sip of coffee and prepare to leave, the sound of laughter and conversation lingers, a reminder of the warmth and hospitality that awaits you at this special spot, a spot that's sure to become a staple in the community, a place where people can come together and feel at home.