Like your caffeine with a '90s twist? Downtown Rockford has just the place
ROCKFORD — The first thing one notices after strolling into Inzombia Coffee, 306 E. State St., is the distinct 1990’s vibe.
There’s a Mortal Kombat arcade game tucked away in a corner of the business. Posters of the sitcom “Friends” and Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan are prominently displayed.
“Bright, fun, nostalgic and welcoming,” is how business owner and self-described child of the 90's Pete Dufoe views his store. “You’ll just feel right at home when you come to this coffee shop.”
Inzombia Coffee made its debut on June 10 and is located in the longtime home of Uptown Barber Shop.
The business name is a combination of the words “insomnia” and “zombie”.
“A lot of people don’t want to speak to anyone in the morning until they get that first cup of coffee,” Dufoe explained. “Once you get your coffee, you’re ready to start your day.”
Related: New coffee shop called Inzombia Coffee to open in downtown Rockford
Drink specialties include hot and iced lattes, frappes, cappuccinos, cafe au lait and caramel macchiato. The shop also offers tea, smoothies, soft drinks and a concoction called a lemon shake-up, which is a mixture of fresh lemon and real sugar.
"They really are so good," Inzombia customer Jaci Murphy said in a post on Inzombia's Facebook page. "And I'm picky with my Lemon Shake-Ups."
The food menu includes scones, muffins, rolls, cereal, pastries and cookies.
“Our pastries and cookies are delivered fresh every morning from Mary’s Market,” Dufoe said.
The shop is furnished with four small tables and a couch and can seat up to 20 people at a time.
Business hours are 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays.
Renee Johnson, of Rockford, has patronized Inzombia Coffee several times since its opening and plans to return.
"I love the 90's retro (theme) but I also love that it's just so laid back," Johnson said. "I feel like no matter who you are, you can walk in there and feel comfortable."
Johnson owns and operates Amari Hair & Nails Salon, 4310 Charles St., and said she tries to support other locally-owned small businesses whenever possible.
"I think it's very important, especially the community involvement aspect like bringing resources, money and collaboration," she said.
Dufoe, 33, originally planned to open his coffee shop in Loves Park and is not ruling out the possibility of expanding there and in Roscoe.
For now, he’s happy to compete for business in the heart of the Forest City.
“I live, work and breathe in downtown Rockford,” Dufoe said. “The area has grown in my heart for so many years and will continue to do so for years to come. I hope to stay here for a long time.”
Ken DeCoster: kdecoster@rrstar.com; @DeCosterKen
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Inzombia Coffee, a '90s-themed cafe, has opened in downtown Rockford
