From Firehouse to Coffeehouse: Brewing a Legacy at Tala

Community

Oct 1

There’s something special about walking into Tala Coffee in Highwood. It’s not just the rich scent of freshly brewed espresso or the low hum of conversation that greets you, there’s a feeling of history in the air, woven into the very floor beneath your feet. But that’s no coincidence because Tala in Highwood isn’t just any coffeehouse. Before serving lattes and cold brews, this space was home to the Highwood Fire Department, a vital part of the community for over a century.

For 129 years, this firehouse stood as a beacon of safety and community. Firefighters worked tirelessly to protect the city, battling blazes threatening homes and businesses. One of the most memorable events in Highwood’s history was the Sherony Hardware fire of 1976. On a cold November day, as snow began to fall, the fire department—then entirely staffed by volunteers—fought flames for nine long hours. They were joined by nearby departments, racing against the spread of the fire, as water pressure issues added to their challenges. Despite the obstacles, they managed to save parts of downtown Highwood. No lives were lost, and for years, the story of that day was passed down, a reminder of the bravery of Highwood’s firefighters.

Fast forward to today, and while the firetrucks and hoses may be gone, the spirit of community and courage lives on differently. Where fire boots once stamped across the floors, you’ll now find customers chatting over cappuccinos and friends sharing laughs over pastries. The floors, in fact, are still the very same ones the firefighters walked on, and if you listen closely, you might even feel the echoes of the past underfoot.

At Tala, we honor this history with our specialty drink, the Engine 37. Named after the fire engine that once called this station home, this drink is more than just a coffee—it’s a tribute. A bold mix of espresso, steamed milk, molasses, brown sugar, maple syrup, cayenne, and chipotle powder, it delivers a sweet and spicy kick that mirrors the brave and fiery spirit of the Highwood Fire Department. It’s quickly became a customer favorite.

But that’s the beauty of it—the Engine 37 is a little like the firefighters it’s named for. Tough when it needs to be, but warm and comforting at heart. It’s a drink that brings people together, much like the firehouse once did.

So the next time you’re in Highwood, take a moment to look around. Notice the details—the old firehouse floor beneath your feet, the map of the fire department paying homage to what was there before, the warmth of a well-crafted drink in your hands, and the sense that you’re a part of something bigger. The firehouse may have closed its doors in 2015, but its legacy lives on here, in every cup of coffee we serve.

And if you’re feeling bold, why not try the Engine 37? With each sip, you’ll be tasting a piece of Highwood history.