Lord-Higel's Coffee House

opened in December of 2025. The Lord-Higel House is the oldest house in Venice and the second oldest house in Sarasota County. Built in 1896 by Joseph Lord, the pioneer home originally sat near Roberts Bay on an orange grove that was later managed by George Higel. The house has been moved twice to save it and has been apart of local history since being built. With the effort of numerous local residents, businesses, non-profits, and the municipal government this bit of local heritage has been saved from falling into disrepair. In 2023 and 2024, Black Gold Coffee Roasters of Venice bid on the project of "adaptive reuse" and was awarded the management of the historic Lord-Higel House. After repairs and restoration work, the team from Black Gold breathed life back into the house that had been sitting empty for more than 20 years and in recognition for their efforts was chosen to receive the Adaptive Use Heritage Award from the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation. With a welcoming wrap around porch, comfy rocking chairs, an informative museum space, delicious food, and award winning coffee, the "Coffee House" thrives as a gathering place for the community and a popular cafe.