Introducing: Dawson at the Coeur d’Alene cafe
Dawson has been part of the Evans Brothers Coffee team at the Coeur d’Alene cafe for almost two years, and he brings a creative spark to every shift. When he is not behind the bar, he is usually taking photos, shooting video, making music, or heading out for a camping or hiking trip. He has a natural curiosity and an eye for detail, which shows up in everything he does.
At the cafe, Dawson approaches coffee the same way he approaches his creative work, with intention and care. He enjoys the process just as much as the result and takes pride in getting the small details right. That thoughtful energy makes his presence behind the bar easy to appreciate.
The craft: What’s your favorite drink to make, and why?
“My favorite drinks to make are either traditional cappuccinos or cortados,” Dawson says. “Being smaller than other drinks, they’re a little more difficult to pour, which makes getting good latte art all the more satisfying.”
For Dawson, the challenge is part of the appeal. Smaller drinks demand more precision, more focus, and a steadier hand. When everything comes together just right, the result feels like a small win, both for the barista and the person about to take the first sip.
The reality: What’s one thing most people don’t realize about being a barista?
During busy moments, that focus can make it tough to hold a full conversation or answer questions mid rush. Dawson thinks that there have probably been times when someone walked away laughing because he had no idea what they were talking about.
“I feel like most people don’t really know how much multitasking goes into being a barista,” Dawson says. “While it’s usually manageable, sometimes it takes one hundred percent of our attention to stay on top of things.”
It’s all part of balancing speed, care, and keeping the bar running smoothly.
The journey: How did you get into coffee in the first place?
“I had been going to Evans Brothers for a little bit,” Dawson says. “One day I was hanging out with my buddy Brandon, who has been a barista here for a good bit, and he mentioned that Evans was hiring.”
After hearing how much Brandon enjoyed working there, Dawson decided to apply. Not long after, he found himself officially part of the team. What started as a casual recommendation quickly turned into a role he genuinely enjoys.
The taste: What’s your go-to coffee order when you’re off the clock?
“My go-to coffee order varies depending on where I go. If the shop I’m at seems to be really good, I’ll order a cortado. If I’m a little suspicious of the shots being pulled, I’ll go for a mocha or something a little sweeter just to be safe.”
At places he trusts, like Evans Brothers, Dawson reaches for a cortado so he can enjoy the coffee in its purest form. It is his way of tasting the work and care that goes into each shot. When he is somewhere unfamiliar, a mocha gives him a little cushion while still letting him enjoy the experience.
The heart: How would you describe the vibe or community at Evans Brothers?
“The people I get to work with are some of the best people you’ll ever meet,” Dawson says. “The same can be said for our regulars as well. I think the best part of the Evans Brothers community is getting to know all the kind, caring, incredible people that come through. ”
Dawson has seen countless small moments of kindness unfold in the cafe. From customers paying for complete strangers to someone offering encouragement to a person who clearly needed it, those interactions stand out.
Brewing connection, one cup at a time
For Dawson, working at Evans Brothers Coffee is about more than making great coffee. It is about paying attention to the small details, showing up for people, and being part of a space where kindness is easy to find. Whether he is pouring a careful cortado or sharing a quick laugh during a busy rush, Dawson helps make the cafe feel welcoming. It is that care and creativity that turn everyday moments into something memorable.