A new cafe is bringing a burst of girl power to the Memphis java scene. Ethnos Coffee Roasters, led by a team of powerful women, is setting up a new location in Harbor Town Square, reports Commercial Appeal.
The concept is pursuing an exterior improvement grant with the Center City Development Corp. for the facade of 114 Harbor Town Square. The storefront, neighboring Cocozza American Italian Restaurant and Cordelia’s Market, will provide Ethnos Coffee Roasters with 800 square feet.
While Ethnos will be expending considerable effort and cost towards upgrading the interior space, it hopes to use the grant for outdoor refurbishments including brick and masonry repair, signage and awnings, lighting, and furniture.
Ethnos intends to begin work on the new location next month and hopes to wrap construction by October.
Ethnos CEO Tina Tatum offered a glimpse of the synergy between concept and location in the grant application letter, saying: “Harbor Town represents thoughtful urban development centered around people, walkability, neighborhood interaction, and long-term community investment. Ethnos aligns naturally with that vision. Our goal is to create more than a coffee shop — we want to establish a true third space for residents, visitors, professionals, students, and families connected to Downtown Memphis, the Medical District, St. Jude, and the broader Harbor Town community.”
Ethnos-voted on of the top 3 Coffee Roasters in Memphis by the Memphis Flyer-will be providing the neighborhood with more than just great cups of coffee. Tatum states: “What makes Ethnos unique is not only our product, but our purpose. We are proudly 100% female owned, operated, roasted, and produced. Our company exists to empower women through coffee, collaboration, and community while creating opportunities that extend far beyond a cup of coffee. Our slogan, “From the Nations, For the Nations,” reflects our belief that hospitality and connection can strengthen neighborhoods and bring people together across cultures and backgrounds.”
