A Humble Beginning

When Michael and Karen Thomas launched Poppets Coffee & Tea back in 2020, it all started in a tiny 10 × 16 foot shed behind their Riverside home. They’ve since grown, roasting beans on Linden Avenue in Dayton and securing a committed spot at the 2nd Street Market. Their next move: a full-scale café and retail space in Kettering.

Location & Opening Date

Mark your calendar. On October 13, Poppets will open at 1006 E. Dorothy Lane, in the storefronts formerly occupied by Creative Flags & Poles and The Ohio Wine Company. With more than 5,000 square feet, the new site offers room to grow. This is a major upgrade from their earlier plan in the Oregon District, which had restrictions on seating and renovations.

Why Kettering Makes Sense

The Thomases initially considered a smaller retail café in Dayton’s Oregon District. But regulatory hurdles and a month-to-month lease made it less appealing. Then Michael spotted a “for lease” sign while making a delivery and decided that same day to pivot to Kettering. He liked the stability and size of the long-term space.

What’s Inside: Coffee, Tea & More

Inside, they'll stock over 50 flavored coffees, 30 to 40 single-origin specialty blends, and around 200 teas. That’s a big jump from their current offerings at 2nd Street Market, where they offer about 30 flavored coffees, 25 single-origin options, 10 decaf blends, 44 loose-leaf teas, and 10 sachets.

All their products come directly from small farmers or specialty importers. Michael even hopes to take customers on origin trips once things settle.

Cafe Experience & Partnerships

Poppets wants to keep the café experience simple and welcoming. Expect European-style coffee drinks, tea by the cup or pot, sparkling teas, and lemonades. They’ll partner with local bakeries like Lucy’s Pastry Palace and The scRUMptious Desserts to offer pastries and treats until their full kitchen is up and running.

A Creative “Third Place”

Upstairs, the former bridal dressing rooms will be transformed into a flexible private space. It’s being redesigned for co-working, study sessions, meetings, and events. They plan to host board-game nights, chef dinners, community gatherings and more. It’s meant to be a relaxed, creative “third place” where people want to spend time.

Looking Ahead: Community & Growth

Michael and Karen envision Poppets as more than just a coffee shop. They want it to be a local gathering hub. The spacious Kettering location gives them creative room to grow, and they already have plans for future expansion, including new locations, wholesale partnerships, and in-house projects.

At 2nd Street Market, their current hours are Fridays 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays 9 or 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. They also supply several local stores, including Dot’s Market in Centerville and Kettering, Blue Sky Coffee, and Blind Bob’s.

What This Really Means

Poppets has grown fast—from backyard shed to roastery to market presence. Now they’re taking the next big step in Kettering. This isn’t just about a new storefront. It’s the start of a bigger vision built around flavor, experience, and community. If you’re nearby, their grand opening is worth a visit.

Summary

• Opening: October 13, 2025
• Where: 1006 E. Dorothy Lane, Kettering, OH
• Offerings: 50+ flavored coffees, specialty blends, 200 teas
• Extras: Café drinks, pastries via local bakers, third-floor gathering space
• Mission: Build a welcoming, community-focused coffee and tea hub

It’s set to become more than a café. It’s a space to connect, sip, explore, and stay awhile.