We founded Retrograde in 2018 along historic Dickerson Pike on the outskirts of East Nashville. Our goal was to create a true neighborhood coffee stop: a gathering place for neighbors and visitors alike–to work, to connect, to pause. We quickly became a creative hub for professionals, creatives, and neighbors. Initially, we were a multi-roaster cafe–serving quality coffees from roasters we admired. After a few years under our belt–we took the leap and began roasting our own coffees. Today, Retrograde has two cafes in Nashville, and our roasting company supports a growing list of other independently owned businesses also focused on serving high quality, distinctive coffees.

Retrograde founders Steve Mabee, Nathan Weinberg, and Davey Rowe-Mabee welcomed Kelly Boutwell as a company partner in 2024.