Funky Bean brews new business amid pandemic

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.- Covid-19 has resulted in shuttered businesses both large and small, but business is booming for a new, local coffee shop.

The Funky Bean on the U.S. 31-W Bypass at the location of the now razed Little Brown Jug, in Bowling Green opened Saturday. Owner Daniel Gonzalez said he’s been ready, even during this pandemic.

“With everything that’s going on with Covid, it’s just nice to be up and going and to be able to provide great coffee and untraditional food,” Gonzalez said.

The opening process was quite smooth, largely due to construction being considered an essential business, the only difference being that employees have health guidelines to follow, like being masked, he said.

“The transitioning of getting people hired, up to speed on the precautions to take, to be extra careful in the way we handle things” helps makes everyone safe, Gonzales said.

Even with the opening being recent, customers say they’re ready to make the Funky Bean part of their daily grind, with a blend of different items on the menu, and upper-level patio seating.

“We literally just drove down the street and saw the sign and upstairs patio. We love coffee, we love hanging out at different places, so we had to stop by,” said first time patron Tyler Lindsey.

The Funky Bean’s entrance to the scene means residents now have another way to pump funds into the local economy.

“We’ve tried to find ways to give back to our community and supporting places like this is a great place to start,” Lindsey said.

Gonzalez said he had all the confidence in the world that the city of Bowling Green would come together and support local businesses during this tough time.

“This community has always supported local business. You can see the support that we’ve gotten so far and it’s just been amazing. I honestly expected nothing less. They’ve been wonderful supporters for a really long time. It’s no surprise to see,” Gonzalez said.