Photo Credit: Hempstead TX EDCFood & Drink
Citizens Coffee & Wine brings new energy to Historic Downtown Hempstead
Husband-and-wife team Kenneth and Kimberly Pilcher are proud to announce the opening of Citizens Coffee & Wine, a new destination café and gathering space in the heart of downtown Hempstead, Texas. More than just a coffee shop, Citizens is an experience—combining the comfort of a small-town café with the sophistication of a boutique wine bar, scratch kitchen, and art gallery.
The Pilchers, who have owned ranch property just outside Hempstead for over 25 years, bring a passion for hospitality, community, and quality to their newest venture. With backgrounds in law, business, and civic leadership, the couple chose Hempstead as their future place of retirement and reinvestment.
“We saw the potential to do something meaningful here,” said Kenneth Pilcher. “Citizens was born from a desire to breathe life into downtown Hempstead, create a place where people can gather, and offer something this community clearly asked for—more food, more options, and more connection.”
A Community-Driven Concept
The idea for Citizens was sparked during Kenneth’s volunteer service as Director of Economic Development for Hempstead. Working with Rice University, he helped conduct a market analysis that revealed over 60% of local residents wanted more food options in town. That insight, combined with a pandemic-driven migration out of urban areas, motivated the Pilchers to invest in a local solution.
Citizens opened its doors on February 24, 2025, inside the beautifully restored Citizens State Bank building—an iconic structure that still echoes memories from generations of Hempstead locals.
More Than a Café
Citizens is a multi-faceted concept. By day, it offers craft coffee, scratch-made baked goods, and a welcoming work or social environment. By night, it transforms into a wine and cocktail bar with artisan meals, live entertainment, and art exhibit.
Top menu items include the Citizens Burger, chicken fried steak, scratch-made croissants, and a popular Cobb salad with chicken or salmon. The café also recently introduced chicken wings with house-made blue cheese dressing to its bar menu.
Coffee is roasted by local favorites Zun Zun Roasters in Cypress and GEVA in Houston. Spirits and florals are sourced from Zipps and Dilorio’s, both based in Hempstead. The team is also exploring partnerships with regional meat and produce suppliers.
Meet the Team Behind the Vision
Citizens commitment to excellence is driven by a seasoned leadership team that blends diverse backgrounds with a shared passion for hospitality. At the helm is General Manager Dragos Tapu, whose experience in fine dining and global brand strategy brings a visionary approach to day-to-night guest experiences. Paul Ramirez, Assistant General Manager and certified sommelier, adds depth with nearly three decades of hands-on restaurant expertise and award-winning beverage programs. Leah Harmel, Bakery Director and Pastry Chef, infuses creativity and trained precision into the café’s celebrated baked offerings. Together, this trio leads with purpose, artistry, and a focus on community.
Investing in Community
Beyond its business operations, Citizens is deeply committed to community development. Kenneth Pilcher is a founding member of the Hempstead Commerce & Civic Association (HCCA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that hosts events like the Watermelon Festival and the Festival of Lights. HCCA proceeds support local causes, including school booster clubs and community nonprofits.
“Our goal is to show that Hempstead is worth investing in—and that businesses can thrive here,” said Kimberly Pilcher. “Citizens is a starting point. We want to inspire others to help reshape downtown into a vibrant, inviting destination.”
What’s Next
The Pilchers plan to expand their vision. In 2024, they purchased the adjacent building—the former daycare—with plans to launch a new concept that will further serve the community’s evolving needs. Details are expected later this year. Meanwhile, Citizens is preparing to roll out a series of special events in partnership with the HCCA, to be announced via social media.
“We’ve had over 8,700 visitors and 4,200 orders since our February 24th opening day,” added Kenneth. “That tells us we’re meeting a need. Now we’re focused on sustainability and building momentum.”
Stay Connected
Follow Citizens Coffee & Wine Café on social media and visit enjoycitizens.com for updates, menus, and upcoming events.
Citizens Coffee & Wine Café
Phone: 979-999-7090
Address: 841 12th Street Hempstead TX, 77445
Source: Citizens Coffee & Wine Café
