best coffee shop in kentucky

14 months ago, I stood at the front doors of Ace with my heart in my throat, my whole life poured into this dream — a risk, a hope, a wild idea that somehow became real. I put everything on the line for this place. I believed that a coffee shop could be more than just lattes and pastries — that it could be a place to elevate, educate, curate, and cultivate something deeper in our community.

There were so many doubts in the beginning — from others, and honestly, from within myself. Building this place felt impossible some days. But I blocked out those voices. I stayed focused. I didn’t even care if I failed because the thought of never trying seemed much worse.

I also didn’t do this alone. So many people helped me along the way — friends, family, mentors, strangers who became regulars and regulars who became friends. Every bit of encouragement, every shared resource, every shift worked and cup poured — it mattered. It still matters. You helped bring this place to life, and I’ll never stop being grateful for that.

There are still hard days. Days I wake up wondering, "Am I doing the right thing? Is this really making a difference?" But every time I walk into Ace and talk with my team, or connect with someone across the counter, I know this is one of the most important things I’ve ever done. And I’m not done yet — we’re just getting started.

Ace isn’t just a coffee shop. It’s a cultural space, a creative space, a place for connection and growth. I still can’t believe I get to wake up every day and be part of something that gives back to this community.

If you’ve ever supported us — thank you. If you believe in what we’re building and want to help us grow, it would mean the world if you’d vote for Ace as the Best Coffee Shop in Kentucky in Kentucky Living Magazine

Let’s keep going. Let’s keep building something beautiful.

- Leticia