Where Coffee Meets Community on Main Street
By Penny Carlton • KeukaRoots.com
Tucked along 43 Main Street in Hammondsport, just a short stroll from the southern shores of Keuka Lake, Service Station FLX is more than your average coffee stop — it’s a fresh spark in the heart of this lake-loving village.
When you step inside, you’re greeted by the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans and the friendly hum of conversation — locals swapping stories, cyclists fresh off the trail, and travelers discovering Hammondsport’s charm for the very first time. The space is bright, modern, and welcoming — a blend of industrial design and small-town heart — perfectly fitting for a spot that celebrates both motion and mindfulness.
🚲 A Café Fueled by Passion — and Pedals
Owners Kim and Nolan, both lifelong adventurers and cycling enthusiasts, dreamed up Service Station FLX as a gathering place where good coffee and good rides intersect. About ten years ago, the couple moved to our beautiful region when they were transferred here by Corning, Inc. from North Carolina — and it didn’t take long for them to fall in love with life along Keuka Lake.
Besides being active members of local cycling groups, the couple has traveled the world to cycle through countryside landscapes, experiencing the rhythm of life on two wheels across continents. Those adventures inspired much of what Service Station FLX has become — a place that celebrates motion, community, and connection, one cup at a time.
As Nolan puts it, “Part of cycling culture is stopping at coffee shops for a cup of coffee and a pastry.” That simple ritual — caffeine, conversation, and camaraderie — became the heartbeat behind Service Station FLX.
They’ve logged miles around the world, but there’s something about Hammondsport — the winding roads, vineyard views, and crisp lake air — that called them to plant their roots here. Their love for the sport shows in every detail, from the bike-friendly setup to the in-house roasting operation they’ve aptly dubbed The Roastery. The result? Coffee that’s as bold, balanced, and full of life as the community it serves.
It’s not unusual to see cyclists lined up outside, their bikes on one of the available bike racks, while they refuel with an espresso and trade tips about favorite trails. The café has quickly become a kind of unofficial hub for outdoor enthusiasts — part pit stop, part meeting place, and entirely filled with the energy that makes Hammondsport tick.
☕ Fresh Roasts, Local Vibes
Service Station FLX takes pride in doing things differently — roasting their beans right on site for unmatched freshness. Their green coffee beans are sourced from countries around the world — from Brazil to Ethiopia to Indonesia — each batch carefully selected for flavor, aroma, and ethical sourcing.
And as Nolan said, “We’re fussy about our coffee, so everything has to be perfect — from the roasting to the cup we serve it in.” That attention to detail shines through in every pour, every espresso pull, every sip.
Balancing their duo roles of working full-time for Corning, Inc. and running a small business, Kim and Nolan know firsthand how much dedication it takes to keep both worlds thriving. As Nolan shared, “We were fortunate to find the perfect full-time manager in Jess.” Her leadership and friendly presence have helped keep Service Station FLX running smoothly — ensuring that every guest feels welcome and every cup meets their high standards.
They’re also proud to introduce their new online store, where customers can order their special coffee blends and brew a fresh pot right from the comfort of home. It’s the perfect way to bring a little piece of Hammondsport to your kitchen — and while you’re at it, don’t forget to grab one of their coffee cups featuring the fabulous Service Station FLX logo!
Whether you’re grabbing a classic cappuccino, a cold brew on a warm lake day, or their signature lavender honey latte, every cup tells a story of craftsmanship and care.
The menu also features a thoughtful selection of breakfast favorites, paninis, and lighter bites that pair perfectly with your morning coffee or post-ride refuel. And yes — there’s plenty for the plant-based crowd, too.
Local favorites? Try the avocado toast piled high with microgreens or the breakfast wrap — both perfectly paired with a lake view stroll or a bench chat in the square.
🕖 Hours, Location, and Local Love
Open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Service Station FLX is the kind of place where early risers and easy-going wanderers cross paths. With its central location on Main Street, it’s easy to swing by before exploring local shops, wineries, or a lakeside walk.
What makes it special, though, isn’t just the coffee or the convenient location — it’s the sense of connection. You might come in for a latte but leave with a new trail suggestion, a local event flyer, or a conversation that lingers long after your cup is empty.
🌿 Rooted in the Finger Lakes Lifestyle
At Keuka Roots, we love discovering spaces like this — places that embody the rhythm of lake life: a balance of movement, pause, and connection. Service Station FLX fits seamlessly into that story. It’s where cyclists gather before a long scenic ride, writers linger with their notebooks, and locals catch up over a second cup.
And look for them at special events throughout the community — from local festivals to seasonal gatherings — where they bring their signature brews and that same warm, friendly energy wherever they go.
And as the seasons change — from bright summer mornings to cozy winter afternoons — Service Station FLX remains a warm constant, a place that fuels both body and soul.
If you haven’t visited yet, add it to your weekend list. Whether you arrive by car, foot, or bike, you’ll leave with more than just caffeine — you’ll leave with a sense of community, conversation, and the unmistakable warmth of the Finger Lakes.
🍂 A Thanksgiving Toast to Community
As we move into the season of gratitude, Service Station FLX reminds us of all the small things worth being thankful for — the friendly smile behind the counter, the comfort of a perfectly brewed cup, and the familiar faces that make Hammondsport feel like home.
So this Thanksgiving, take a moment to slow down, sip something warm, and savor the community that surrounds you. Whether you’re sharing coffee with friends before the big meal, grabbing beans for a holiday breakfast, or ordering online to enjoy at home, Service Station FLX offers a taste of togetherness — brewed right at the heart of Keuka.
☕ Visit Service Station FLX
📍 43 Main Street, Hammondsport, NY 14840
🕖 Open daily 7 a.m.–3 p.m.
🌐 servicestationflx.com
📞 (607) 377-0221
