Providence, R.I. [Brown University] — A wave of excitement has arrived at the southern end of Brown University’s campus with the grand opening of Hazel Origin Coffee’s new location. This specialty coffee shop, nestled on the ground floor of Brown’s Chen Family Hall at 250 Brook St., welcomed hundreds of patrons during its early-fall debut, offering a fresh spot for premium organic coffee, locally sourced baked goods, and more.
Hazel Origin Coffee provides students and Providence locals with a unique dining experience, boasting not only high-quality coffee and tea but also a menu featuring sandwiches and snacks. Brown University seniors Sofia Cruz and Maira Rojas-Tineo, both residents of nearby halls, expressed their enthusiasm for the café, describing it as the perfect place to grab a quick bite, study, or indulge in a daily coffee run.
“The coffee is delicious, and so are the croissants,” Cruz shared. “The space itself is beautiful and has great study vibes.”
Rojas-Tineo, equally impressed, hinted that Hazel Origin could quickly become her go-to spot. “I budget for coffee every week, so I think I’ll be here every morning,” she said. “They offer unique flavors that you can’t find anywhere else on campus.”
Founded in 2022 by Rhode Island residents Olvin and Dulce Lopez, Hazel Origin Coffee prides itself on importing sustainably sourced beans from Central and Latin America. Their second Rhode Island retail location follows their success in Pawtucket, with wholesale clients including independent coffeehouses, restaurants, and major retailers throughout New England.
Dulce Lopez, thrilled with the Brook Street opening, is eager to share the diverse coffee flavors sourced from regions around the globe. “We offer beans from seven different origins, like Burundi, Sumatra, Colombia, Peru, Guatemala, and Honduras,” Lopez explained. “Each coffee tells a story through its flavor, and we want people to taste and experience those unique distinctions.”
A New Community Hub
The café’s launch marks the culmination of more than a year of planning. Hazel Origin took over the retail space in July 2023, and the owners were heavily involved in every step of the process, from interior design to staff training. The new shop boasts a team of five full-time front-of-house employees and one kitchen worker.
During the late-September grand opening, crowds gathered as early as 7 a.m. to experience the new café. Hazel Origin celebrated the occasion with complimentary tastings of their menu and gave away 16-ounce bags of freshly roasted coffee beans as a thank-you to guests.
The Providence menu offers something slightly different than their Pawtucket location, with items tailored to the tastes of Brown’s student body. Avocado toast and Vietnamese-style shaken espresso have quickly become popular choices.
“We’re always open to student feedback,” Lopez said. “We have a diverse staff and want to offer flavors that resonate with students from around the world.”
Among the seasonal offerings are spiced pumpkin bread, apple cinnamon crumb muffins, and heartier options like caprese toast and Mediterranean turkey paninis.
Welcoming the Providence Community
Hazel Origin Coffee’s appeal extends beyond the university. Fox Point residents Joe and Molly Conti, new parents, found the café’s early morning hours a perfect fit for their routine. “We were excited when we saw Hazel Origin opening,” Molly said. “As new parents, the early hours are ideal for us, and the outdoor seating is inviting. We wish even more places opened earlier.”
Currently, Hazel Origin’s Providence location operates from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., but extended hours until 5 p.m. will begin on October 7.
A Family Passion for Coffee
For Dulce and Olvin Lopez, coffee is more than just a business; it’s a deeply rooted passion. Both come from long coffee-producing traditions in Honduras. Dulce’s mother is a leading buyer for Honducafe, and Dulce herself managed her family’s coffee shop in La Lima. Meanwhile, Olvin co-founded INLOHER, a coffee exporting company, and led it for over 13 years.
Dulce expressed her eagerness to share their coffee’s story with Brown students. “Many people don’t realize the amount of work that goes into producing coffee. We’re excited to bring that knowledge to the Providence community.”
With its new location, Hazel Origin Coffee is set to become a vibrant part of both Brown University’s campus and the local community, offering more than just a great cup of coffee—it’s an experience rooted in culture, tradition, and craftsmanship.
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