Collegium, a Los Angeles–born sneaker brand, is expanding beyond high-quality shoe shopping and opening a cafe concept to complement its retail operations. The brand is working to open Cafe Collegium at South Coast Plaza mall, 3333 Bear Street, Unit 132, county records show.
Founder Nick Sisombath has been documenting the build and permitting progress on social channels as the team prepares the space. He shared in recent weeks that they are waiting on city and health approvals so they can start building in the shell space. Currently, plans are listed as “Unable to approve”.
In the meantime, they are testing equipment and recipes. Signage went up in the mall in August, advertising to shoppers that a unique new notion is en route. It’s located in the Macy’s Home wing, behind the Apple Store.
Sisombath shared that the venture is a sort of “full circle” moment for him. A decade ago, he worked retail at the same shopping center, then made a leap of faith to launch his sneaker brand. The brand emphasizes Italian handmade production, with each stage passing through artisans.
