Coffee Shop & Wine Bar Opening in Central Phoenix Will Help Refugees

Central Phoenicians seeking a morning pick-me-up or an evening wind-down -- and with a nod to helping those in need -- may want to check out The Refuge, a new coffee shop and wine bar opening in the Melrose Boutique District in mid- to late-September. Located in the former Melrose...

By Laura Hahnefeld

September 5, 2013

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Central Phoenicians seeking a morning pick-me-up or an evening wind-down -- and with a nod to helping those in need -- may want to check out The Refuge, a new coffee shop and wine bar opening in the Melrose Boutique District in mid- to late-September.

Located in the former Melrose Flower Shop, 4727 North Seventh Avenue, The Refuge comes courtesy of Catholic Charities Community Services (headquartered next door). The group hopes to provide jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities for refugees and others in need as well as donating its proceeds to other nonprofit services in the Valley.

Here's what guests can expect.

The Refuge will serve rain-forest-certified coffees from Café Esperanza and has enlisted the services of local roaster Matador Coffee in Phoenix to train its staff. In addition to the coffee, The Refuge will serve tea, beer, wine, and eats like pastries, sandwiches, salads, and pizzas.

Gift items, such as jewelry, art, and purses, hand-crafted by refugees from around the world, will also be available. The Refuge also plans to have live music on the weekends.

The Refuge 47217 North Seventh Avenue 602-265-1795 www.therefugeaz.com

Hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily

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