Shaker Square needs a coffee-centric local coffee shop

We're thinking its time to begin looking for the next Phoenix Coffee retail location. I want to locate somewhere relatively urban, diverse demographic mix, and lots of foot traffic. I don't want to go to the 'burbs, to a strip mall or new suburban development. Although, strictly financially speaking, that would probably be a good idea. But look at where Phoenix Coffee is located now, and look at who we are. Cleveland Heights, Downtown, Lakewood. Nice store distribution. Inner ring suburbs. Urban, edgy, creative. What other location would keep this theme going?

Shaker Square.

Which is currently being redeveloped by Peter Rubin and The Coral Company. After our customer Sergio Abramof of Sergio's at University Circle told us that he was not going to do a coffee shop there, we called Coral Company to find out what spaces were available and at what prices. Lisa Weiner kindly showed us a couple of spaces, but after our meeting would not forward us a lease proposal (with rates, etc).

Now we have heard from a couple of different sources that Coral Company is in negotiations with The Popcorn Shop from Chagrin Falls. I think Dewey's shop would make a great addition to the Square, and he does sell coffee.

What Phoenix Coffee could bring to the square is a more coffee-centric gathering place that would appeal more directly to dyed-in-the-wool coffee fanatics who are often the creative class of people. We also offer our free wireless internet service, which encourages hanging out, and also appeals to a diverse crowd.

Some people may also remember that Carl Jones, my husband, committed to locating at Shaker Square back when he owned Arabica. Many would argue that his decision to locate at the Square in the 80s was instrumental to turning the Square around at a time when it was a transient neighborhood at best.

We'd like to be part of the second Renaissance. Carl called Peter last week to tell him that, but he didn't seem interested.

Please let Peter know if you agree that Phoenix Coffee would be a good addition to the tenant mix at the Square.