The 1,200-square-foot building at 1320 E. Houston St., Suite 101, which is undergoing a complete renovation from a vacant retail space, is the soon-to-be home of Estate Coffee Company and Oak & Salt.
Brian Labarbera, owner and operator of Estate Coffee Company, says part of his space will focus on educating people about the roasting process and where the beans come from.
“Guests will have the opportunity to watch the roasting process right in from of them, while learning about the farmers we work with to produce our incredible coffees," Labarbera says.
Oak & Salt's owner, Ben Annotti, a classically trained chef, will highlight small batch food and drink provisions. Annotti says his space will have a product display where customers can buy unique salts, oils, cocktail mixers and more. Guests can watch Annotti develop his own mix of products.
“I envision a very open and clean space, where people can learn exactly where our unique ingredients come from, and how to incorporate those products in their own food and drink,” Annotti says.
Both Labarbera and Annotti will bring a farm-to-market philosophy toward coffee and quality goods. The aim to create a transparent environment where people can learn about the products while enjoying a cup of coffee.