First Impressions

LAWLSS is the 2025 official sponsor for the Venture Wisconsin Coffee Passport. Originally hosting three locations (Appleton, Neenah and Sturgeon Bay), however the Appleton location had to close in 2025 due to financial strain.

Founded in 2019 by Stephan Witchell (founder of Tempest Coffee back in 2016). The name LAWLSS was chosen to reflect a new approach to life outside traditional behavior and living authentically while living in community. They roast all their own coffee as well.

Atmosphere & Experience

The Neenah location occupies a building with original wood floors, exposed brick walls, and plenty of windows letting in natural light. There is a greenhouse-looking patio space that adds a unique flavor to this space. The cozy-industrial aesthetic makes a productive work/study space and the room is spread out for a more community-oriented atmosphere. There’s a wide variety of tables, bar chairs and plush seating with a fireplace in the main space. The back left corner holds the heart of the operation: their roasting setup. LAWLSS offers classes on Pour Overs, Coffee Roasting and Espresso Making. You can find out how to purchase a class here.

During my visit, I had the opportunity to meet the sister of Discourse’s owner. Our conversation touched on the LAWLSS café’s history and my own travels. I mentioned my appreciation for Discourse’s Fourth Wave offerings and she explained that LAWLSS provides the roasts for Discourse! I’m slowly learning just how interconnected the Wisconsin coffee world is!

Austin’s Choice

The LAWLSS Dark Matter is my all time favorite. It’s an espresso tonic on steroids. It’s not for everyone though. It has a bitterness that some people may not like. But for my kind of tastes, it is perfect. Highly recommended.

Additional Information

For more information about LAWLSS, you can check out their Instagram and website:
https://www.instagram.com/lawlsscoffee
https://www.lawlsscoffee.com

To see the full interior and experience, check out my Instagram post!