Pawtucket-based coffee supplier Hazel Origin Coffee will open its second location in a first-floor retail space in the Chen Family Hall in mid-November, co-owner Dulce Lopez told The Herald. Construction in the space is scheduled to begin this week.
The University announced that the coffee shop would come to College Hill in an Aug. 9 press release. The store will offer traditional coffee drinks — like espresso beverages and pour-over coffees — alongside salads, paninis and other food selections, Lopez said. The new location will also be carbon-neutral by means of tree planting, she added.
According to Lopez, the coffee shop received written messages from around 10 parents of University students expressing concerns about dietary restrictions after the coffee shop was first announced. Now, she said, the cafe plans on offering gluten-free, allergy-free and vegan selections.
“We’re trying to have an option for everybody,” Lopez said.
In the release, University leaders welcomed Lopez and her husband Olvin Lopez, who co-owns Hazel Origin Coffee with her, while noting the new location’s benefit to the Brown community.
“As early as the first conversation, it was clear to us that Olvin and Dulce possess a deep dedication to the craftsmanship of coffee,” said John Luipold, vice president of business affairs, auxiliary services and real estate, according to the press release. “The wholehearted approach they take to everything about their business will create an exceptional coffee experience for College Hill students and residents.”
“Our research shows that community and connections tend to happen for most college students around meals,” Brenda Ice, senior associate dean and senior director of residential life, added in the release. “For us, the idea of adding a retailer in that space that is centered in food, like quick, grab-and-go sandwiches and snacks is ideal.”
Scott Petersen ’25, who lives in Chen Family Hall, said news of the forthcoming shop is “really exciting.”
“I think it’ll be a nice place to study, grab a bite to eat and take a break from dining hall food,” he said.
Neil Mehta is the editor-in-chief and president of the Brown Daily Herald's 134th editorial board. They study public health and statistics at Brown. Outside the office, you can find Neil baking and playing Tetris.
