(Main) Street (Java) Closure
Again from Richmond BizSense: another coffee shop grinds to a halt in the 1300 block of West Main St.
In January the Common Cup gave way to Main Street Java. Now Main Street Java yields to Rev It Up. It kinda makes me think that Crossroads has got the coffee thing covered at Morris and Main. But perhaps Crossroads’ very popularity is what convinces new business people to think another shop is sustainable.
My two cents: To compete with a much-loved and historically successful coffee shop you need to find something to set yourself apart. Just saying ‘New ownership and new attitude’ won’t do it. First, you need to create a great coffee experience (i.e. better than Starbucks which sadly many people still thinks sets the bar with coffee). Second, you need to create a place in which it is comfortable to be (especially for the abundant college students in the area). Third, just adding an ABC license won’t do it. In this age of coffee shop-cum-wine bar, alcohol is a good idea, but to really succeed it needs to be done with excellence, not just throwing some bottles in a fridge. Finally, here are one observer’s thoughts on some other ideas for coffee shops to cater specifically to the WiFi, working person crowd.
All of this makes me wonder, what’s your favorite Fan coffee shop and why? Or, if you’re more of a dreamer type, what does the Fan need in a coffee shop?
I’ve always liked Lift, though it’s not in the Fan. World Cup was okay, while it lasted, but it went downhill just before its move to the current Crossroads spot.
Crossroads is so crowded that it’s just annoying, unless you’re getting it to go.
I stopped in Main Street Java once. I got an iced coffee and it was in one of those flimsy translucent plastic cups like the kind the dentist gives you to rinse and spit. I had to hold it very gingerly to keep from squeezing coffee through the straw like a juice box. I was hungry but I didn’t buy anything to go with my coffee because the case was full of sweaty-looking glazed honey-bun things covered with big sheets of Saran — not the most appetizing presentation.
I’m no coffee shop snob, but I like my cups sturdy and my treats fresh baked. I love Lift, and Betsy’s especially, and the new Ellwood Thompson’s coffee shop. And that’s all I have to say about that.
I like crossroads. It’s friendly, casual and a bit quirky. When you add in the triangle park next door and the free wi-fi, it makes for a good place to visit, relax and meet some new friends.
Hey all, just discovered this web blog! Love It! I am the new owner of the REV IT UP ! Guess what? New Ownership does make a difference. I am proud of my staff! They helped us make this beautiful and a great place to hang. I am still using the HORRIBLE plastic cups however I am doing it so I am not throwing plastic away and killing the world more! I invite you all to come in and you’ll see! Give us a break we are new but we are proud. I went to Crossroads everyday for my coffe before we opened and it was GREAT! There is room for all of us here. Take care and come see us!! I dare you:) Pease Also we have a baker that rocks this place! Fresh baked scones Muffins a veggin treat everyday! All baked here for us.. and you! Lauren is amazing!No delivered items except bagels!
PEASE
Sharon
Rev It Up is a great spot with true American business spirit. The food is homemade and the baker is superb. Great addition to this area!
I love Rev It Up. The owners make it a very comfortable and affordable place to come hang, do work, and get good fresh food every day. Great place for a business meeting because of the atmosphere but also has a casual feel too.
Music and drink specials on Fridays. Definitely worth checking out.
[...] Friday. Rev It Up! took over the spot that Main Street Java (and before that, Common Cup) vacated when it closed in [...]