They only signed the lease last week, but Chris Pitorri and Keagon Foster were eager to open Loaf Coffee Shop, located at the former location of Mia’s Coffeehouse (101 15th St. NE), as soon as they could.
“We came across the shop, we fell in love and decided to inquire,” said Pitorri on Saturday from behind the counter, where he and Foster were making coffees and plans. “And we lucked out —it was available.”
The shop opened Saturday morning, with the two owners behind the counter offering hot and iced coffees. The two will continue to meet the neighbors through the weekend, as Pitorri and Foster will be working behind the counter Sunday. They expect the regular staff of baristas to begin work as early as Monday.
Loaf Coffee started selling their coffees online, but quickly decided that they wanted to expand to the intimate experience of a shop; this is their first, and they’re ready to get going.
“We just wanted to get our here and start meeting people in the neighborhood,” said Pittori of the opening, coming the day after Mia’s made their formal announcement.
They will be open Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., serving coffee, tea and pastries from Shilla Bakery in Northern Virginia. “We’re really excited about that,” said Pitorri, “because their stuff is amazing.”
The hours will remain consistent until Spring or summer, when they expect to finish a remodeling job that will see the seating expanded to the second level room in the current shop, with benches around the walls. The patio area will be landscaped, with paving stones and planter boxes, and the interior painted with some columns removed. By the spring, Pitorri and Foster hope to have the remodel complete, and to expand the hours and service to lunch and dinner.
The two said that they have explored the neighborhood, popping into Capital Candy Jar and Cupboard. They say the area is full of ‘good vibes.’
“This neighborhood!” exclaims Foster as he prepares coffee. “All day you’ve all been coming in and just spreading the love. It’s amazing, and we appreciate it.”
“You make sure you let them all know that.”
Loaf Coffee Shop is located at 101 15th St. NE; hours are M-F 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sat and Sun from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those interested in employment or more information can contact Pitorri and Foster by email at info@LoafCoffee.com
