Settled uniquely inside an old caboose at 400 W. Main Street, Steam Coffee and Tea Co. has become a beloved fixture in Red River, thanks to the dedication of owners Caitlin and Santiago Galvan. Since taking the reins in 2020, this family-run business has flourished, driven by a deep commitment to quality and community
The journey to Red River began in 2020 when Caitlin, then 21, and her husband Santiago, moved from Amarillo, Texas. Caitlin remembers the moment her father, Matthew Dietz, called asking Santiago to come and manage the coffee shop. Soon after moving to Red River, Caitlin and Santiago grew to love the shop so much it became apparent that they too wanted to be owners.
“It was my father’s encouragement that got us here to join the family business at the Pioneer Lodge. He has done so much for me and my family.” Their arrival coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We moved to Red River and started operating Steam basically when COVID began,” Caitlin recalls. “I have never seen a community coming together like I did at the time. We immediately fell in love with the town, the mountains, and the quietness of Red River.”
Five years later, the Galvans are not only successful business owners but also devoted parents to their two young daughters, Khaleesi (age 3) and Khailuna (age 5), both of whom are homeschooled by Caitlin.
Steam Coffee and Tea Co. takes pride in its delicious offerings, featuring coffee roasted locally. Their dark roast, known for its rich espresso flavor, is a customer favorite. “I have always loved coffee,” says Caitlin. I think I started drinking coffee when I was three years old and never stopped.”
Beyond the brews, the shop offers a range of merchandise, including t-shirts, hoodies, hats, and coffee cups. Popular drink choices include the light-bodied “Platinum Chair”—a white chocolate and caramel concoction favored by Caitlin, the “Enchanted Fog,” and the “Churro Latte.” Recently, Steam expanded its menu to include refreshing protein shakes, a convenient option for those visiting the nearby Gold Hill Gym. “Locals can go get in a workout at the gym and then stop by afterwards for a delicious protein shake,” says Caitlin.
A true family operation, Santiago Galvan starts each day crafting fresh donuts and breakfast burritos, complete with homemade salsa. Caitlin is proud to highlight their dedicated team, noting employees Bailee Massengalye, Haddy Rychlik, and Alex Brunson as invaluable assets.
Innovation is also a key ingredient at Steam. Just weeks ago, they unveiled a new treat: the “Affogato,” a delightful blend of two shots of espresso or cold brew poured over two scoops of handcrafted ice cream.
When reflecting on their experience as business owners in Red River, both Caitlin and Santiago emphasize the strong community bonds and the stunning mountain scenery as being the best aspects. “Local businesses here in Red River help each other out all the time,” Caitlin shares, describing the supportive network. “If someone needs something or if I run out of an ingredient, I can reach out to a local business, and someone will help me. Our customers are so important to us. Many have been coming to the Red River area for generations, and some are daily regulars. We love serving all of our customers.” Santiago finds deep satisfaction in the personal connections he’s experienced owning Steam. “If you can make someone’s day with a cup of coffee and good conversation, that’s very powerful for me,” he expresses.
They both acknowledge that owning a business demands immense hard work and dedication. “There is nothing like having and owning your own business and pouring your heart and soul into it,” Caitlin and Santiago say. “Our family and the family aspect of our business is a major part of our success because we can lean on each other. At the end of the day, no matter what happens, we all still have each other.”
The future for Steam Coffee and Tea Co. is brewing bright. “We love serving our customers, and we’ll keep serving our favorites and look forward to offering some new exciting things for our customers,” affirm Caitlin and Santiago Galvan, who continue to enrich the Red River community with their delectable offerings.
