Càphê Roasters in Kensington is expanding into a former roller rink located directly across from their current cafe.
Càphê Roasters, a well-regarded Vietnamese coffee shop and delicatessen located in Kensington, Philadelphia, is set to expand its operations with a new location at 3419-23 Kensington Ave. This new venue, situated directly across from the existing café, will occupy a former roller rink and offers promising potential for growth and innovation within the local dining landscape.
Currently, Càphê Roasters operates under limited hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. However, the upcoming establishment will introduce a brewery alongside extended dining options, enabling the café to serve patrons for longer periods. Additionally, a takeout window will be incorporated, catering to customers seeking convenience.
The new location aims to enhance the culinary experience while maintaining a strong focus on traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Excitingly, the café plans to invite chefs from various Southeast Asian backgrounds to contribute to the menu, creating a platform for culinary experimentation. This approach not only diversifies the offerings but also celebrates the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. The co-founder of Càphê Roasters, Raymond John, expressed enthusiasm about the increased creativity and flexibility the new space will provide, while still grounding the concepts in what has made the original café so special.
The expansion plan includes a larger roastery facility, as the current operation has outgrown its 200-square-foot workspace. Co-founder Thu Pham began roasting beans for their Vietnamese coffee before the café even opened in 2021. The additional space is crucial for meeting the demands of wholesale partners and expanding the roasting processes.
Càphê Roasters is collaborating with Shift Capital to bring this project to fruition. The property, which once served as a movie theater and later a roller rink, encompasses 10,000 square feet and is strategically located near the Market-Frankford Line, enhancing its accessibility for visitors.
Recent presentations to the Harrowgate Civic Association regarding the expansion were met with unanimous support, reflecting the community’s favorable view of Càphê’s initiatives. The project will require ongoing governmental approvals, particularly concerning the brewery’s zoning and additional structural modifications. Shift Capital anticipates construction to begin in mid-2024, with completion projected for a year thereafter.
Since its inception, Càphê Roasters has received national recognition, including being named a semifinalist for the 2025 James Beard Awards and being listed among the best restaurants in Philadelphia by esteemed publications. Moreover, the business model includes a philanthropic focus; Càphê Roasters allocates a portion of its profits to 12 Plus, a nonprofit organization founded by John, aimed at supporting educational equity and career development for students in the local community.
As Càphê Roasters embarks on this ambitious expansion, the initiative stands as a testament to its commitment to community engagement and culinary excellence, promising to contribute positively to the Kensington neighborhood in the years ahead.
