Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Apacanis.
Hi Erin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
The vision for Simply Roasted was deeply influenced by my mother. She was the baker and artist in our family and had a natural gift for hospitality. Our home was always filled with the aroma of something fresh from the oven. We often hoped she would open a bakery one day, though we were never quite sure why she didn’t. After her passing, opening Simply Roasted became a meaningful way to honor and carry on her memory. And therefore, my inspiration for Simply Roasted was to create a welcoming upscale environment where people can enjoy exceptional coffee, sandwiches, and desserts while feeling genuinely cared for. Today, it’s becoming more than just a coffee shop; it’s a gathering place where conversations begin, ideas grow, and community is strengthened one cup at a time.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. Like many small business owners, I faced challenges with permits, funding, contractors, and learning the operational side of running a coffee house. What I thought might be a quicker process turned into a two-year journey of persistence and faith. At times, it felt like taking one step forward only to be pushed back three.
During that season, I was carrying the weight of lease payments, utilities, construction costs, and loan obligations, all before the doors were even open. It was overwhelming at times, and there were moments when the uncertainty felt heavy. The money was disappearing quickly, and the wait was testing both my patience and my resilience.
But those two years shaped me. They gave me time to refine the vision, to be intentional about every detail, from the atmosphere to the menu to the kind of experience I wanted each guest to have. Every delay strengthened my commitment to honor my mother. When we finally opened and held our ribbon-cutting, it wasn’t just the launch of a business; it was the reward of perseverance, purpose, and the unwavering support of my family. They encouraged me, sacrificed alongside me, and continue to give their time and energy to help make this dream possible.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m the owner of Simply Roasted Coffee House in Midtown Detroit, where I’ve created an elevated yet welcoming coffee experience rooted in genuine hospitality. As a retired art teacher, creativity and intention shape everything I do, from the design of the space to the way we serve our guests. Teaching taught me patience, leadership, and how to truly see people. Those lessons now guide how I run Simply Roasted.
I specialize in creating community-centered spaces. Simply Roasted is known for its cozy, thoughtfully designed atmosphere and personal connections. I’m present and engaged, greeting guests, remembering faces, and creating an environment where students, professionals, families, and neighbors all feel equally comfortable. Being located in Midtown and close to the Wayne State campus allows us to serve as both a workspace and a gathering place.
What I’m most proud of is transforming a heartfelt vision into a space that people choose to be a part of. I take the time to truly get to know my customers as our conversations unfold and spark new ideas, and our friendships grow is incredibly meaningful. and what brings them in each day. For our students, especially, I gently hold them accountable and make sure they’re actually getting their work done while they’re here.
Seeing guests return again and again, not just for coffee but for connection, reminds me why I started this journey in the first place.
What sets me apart is the combination of creativity and heart. Simply Roasted isn’t just about exceptional coffee; it’s about intentional design, thoughtful service, and having a space for the community to meet.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5–10 years, I believe the coffee industry will continue moving toward more personalized, community-centered experiences. People are craving more than just a great cup of coffee; they’re looking for spaces where they feel comfortable, inspired, and connected. While technology will continue to grow and make ordering more convenient, I truly believe the heart of this industry will always be the human connection, the conversations across the counter, the familiar faces, and the relationships we build over time.
For Simply Roasted, I hope to continue nurturing that sense of belonging and, in the coming years, open another location so we can share the same warmth and hospitality with even more people. I’m excited to learn about the new trends and innovations, but always with the intention of staying grounded in what makes our coffee house special: community, genuine care, and creating a space where everyone feels at home.
Pricing:
- Lattes $5.00
- Breakfast Sandwiches $6.00
- Lunch Sandwiches $12.00
- Soups $3.97
- Desserts $5.95
Contact Info:
- Website: www.simplyroasteddetroit.com
- Instagram: @simplyroasteddetroit
- Facebook: @simplyroasteddetroit
