Adam Hrywnak and Brian Polnasek met in 2014 while working in the Poconos’ hospitality industry. Together, they dreamed of eventually opening their own cafe. That plan took a caffeinated turn in 2021, while the couple was on a cross-country road trip in Seattle.

“We noticed consistently there weren’t just cafes. Every cafe was roasting their own beans. So, on the way home, we started talking about what our business would look like. We knew we were going to start something,” said Adam Hrywnak, founder.

“Immediately seeing the vibe out west and how they were dealing with coffee, we felt this was something that needed to come back home to us. We can do something like this,” added Brian Polnasek, head roaster.

Days later, they bought a coffee roaster, began researching the process, and converted a garage on their property in Reeders into a roastery. Hrysek Farms, a blend of Adam and Brian’s last names, was born.

As the company grew, their little red roaster couldn't keep up with demand. So, they found themselves on another road trip to pick up the perfect upgrade they found online.

“We reached out and bought the roaster, but it was in New Mexico. We ended up renting a box truck and drove all the way to New Mexico get this coffee roaster. It was just the two of us in four days,” they recalled.

They source beans from Guatemala, Tanzania, Papua New Guinea, Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil. Everything is roasted to order so it's always fresh, in compostable packaging.

While the roastery isn't open to the public just yet, Hrysek Farms is served at Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort and select coffee shops. You can also find Adam and Brian selling their products at community fairs and festivals, including Pocono Pride Fest in Stroudsburg. Or order direct from HrysekFarms.com.

“I think our journey in appreciating and understanding coffee has really grown with what we're doing here and through the people we meet. Where is this bean from? It has an origin and has a story. Coffee isn't just this thing that comes in a cup,” they explained.

Their property includes a private trailhead that leads to Big Pocono State Park, near Camelback Resort. They love hiking the old railbed with their dog, Hugo. They also have a passion for baking and hope to open a bakery-cafe, bringing coffee and nature lovers together.

“It’s going to be here on the property, right up against Big Pocono State Park. We want to connect into the rails to trails so people can come out, hike and bike, get a cup of coffee and baked goods, and experience the outdoors,” Adam said.

Brian added, “it's going to be that roast origin forward experience. Come in, take your time. It's unlikely to have a drive through. We want you to get out of your car, come inside, get a feel for it, and hang out a little bit.”

While those plans percolate, Adam and Brian reflect on the journey. “There was a time I didn't think we’d sell any coffee whatsoever. I'd sit there at night thinking, ‘did I just buy thousands of dollars’ worth of coffee that's just going to sit there?’ And now, we move through that a week,” Adam said.

“We have a picture of Adam with the first case we ever sold wholesale, this box of twelve bags. I just remember there was so much joy and excitement,” Brian smiled.

Adam added, “that really comes down to one thing. We're grateful there are so many people who order our coffee online or come to see us at every event. The people who support our business, in whatever form it is, is how we've gotten from maybe selling a bag a week to five, six, twenty, or whatever the amount is."

Fueled by coffee and community.