- February 19, 2026
Salty Church marked a new chapter in its 20-year history Friday with the grand opening of The Boardroom Coffee Co., transforming the former Lulu’s Oceanside Grill into a coastal-inspired coffeehouse designed to foster connection and community.
The Valentine’s Day opening, held Feb. 14 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., drew a steady stream of residents eager to get a first look — and first taste — of the church’s newest venture. Guests were treated to specialty coffee sourced from Steel Oak Coffee, the debut of the shop’s waffle menu, free Boardroom stickers and hourly raffle drawings.
Founded in 2005, Salty Church has grown into a multi-campus ministry serving communities across Volusia and Flagler counties. The purchase of the 5,043-square-foot property for $1.5 million, according to Volusia County Property Appraiser records, expanded the church’s footprint in Ormond Beach and created space for a vision years in the making.
Founder and Lead Pastor Robbie O’Brien has described the project as more than a business endeavor. By day, The Boardroom operates as a full-service coffee shop. On weekends, it will also serve as an overflow venue for worship services, streaming live from the church’s main campus across the street.
“Our vision is to become the community’s preferred gathering place,” O’Brien previously said. “No matter who you are or what you believe, we want it to be a cool spot to hang out. Our mission isn’t to run a business — it’s to create an environment that starts with coffee and can lead people toward Jesus.”
The name “Boardroom” reflects both collaboration and the surf culture that has shaped Salty Church’s identity. Inside, surfboard-inspired décor and coastal design elements pay homage to the beachside community the church calls home.
For Chrissy O’Brien, the heart behind The Boardroom is simple.
“My vision of what I want The Boardroom to be is just a place for people to have community, to connect, a place that feels good,” she said. “I love Ormond Beach and its community and hope to build the community here too.”
As espresso machines hummed and waffles rolled off the griddle during Friday’s launch, church leaders said the goal is for The Boardroom to serve as a welcoming front porch for the broader community — whether guests come for coffee, conversation or something deeper.
