About the Business
Jim Chapman and Matt McQuilkin came from different trades — one sold wine, the other worked as a cheesemonger — but they shared what McQuilkin described as a pull toward Old World crafts. At a mutual friend's party in fall 2009, they identified something Missoula was short on — a serious local roaster — and decided to fill it. Black Coffee Roasting Company launched in summer 2010, starting in a garage and eventually moving into the 5,000-square-foot Quonset hut on East Spruce Street they'd been eyeing for years. Today the roastery-café operates daily until 1pm, ships fresh-roasted organic beans nationwide, and supplies wholesale accounts across Missoula.
Profile Researched July 2026
Services Offered
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Black Coffee Roasting Company different from other Missoula coffee shops?+
It's a working roastery with a café attached — you can see the green beans stacked in the back from your seat. Everything is 100% organic, roasted in small batches on-site, and also available for nationwide shipping and wholesale.
Can I order coffee online if I'm not in Missoula?+
Yes. The website sells whole bean and ground coffee, sample packs, and a subscription option for regular shipments. The organic instant line is popular with travelers and backpackers.
Does Black Coffee Roasting have Wi-Fi?+
No. Multiple reviewers flag this. The space works better for short visits or meetings than for a full work session.
What should I order on a first visit?+
Reviewers consistently point to the espresso drinks, with house-made syrups getting specific mention. The pastries from Grist Bakery and the avocado toast are frequently highlighted.
When did Black Coffee Roasting open?+
Summer 2010, founded by Jim Chapman and Matt McQuilkin. They moved to the current Quonset hut on East Spruce around 2015.
Do they offer wholesale?+
Yes. Contact them directly through the website for details.
The Legend's Story
Black Coffee Was Building Toward the Quonset Hut All Along
Black Coffee Was Building Toward the Quonset Hut All Along At the east end of Spruce Street, where downtown Missoula gives way to Lower Rattlesnake, a curved steel building holds a coffee bar and a working roastery under...
Read the Full Story →Manage or share this profile
Are you the owner or manager of Black Coffee Roasting Company? Keep this profile current or share your Missoula Legends feature on your website and social channels.