Eleva, a gourmet coffee shop known for its mission to uplift the coffee experience, has recently opened its doors in downtown Williamsburg. Founded in 2018 by Emilio Baltodano, Eleva has quickly gained popularity for its unique offerings and commitment to quality. The new location in Merchants Square is currently in its soft opening phase, with a grand opening scheduled for mid-May.
Operated by Amr and Sue Hassan, the Williamsburg coffee shop features a craft espresso bar, specialty drinks, and a variety of food options including tapas and fresh pastries. Sue Hassan shared that the lounge is designed to be a relaxing haven where customers can savor their coffee and the moment. Eleva, which means “to uplift” in Spanish, aims to elevate the coffee experience while also supporting coffee-growing communities.
In addition to the Williamsburg location, Eleva also has plans to open another storefront in New Town later this year. The expansion comes after the success of their first two locations in Brooklyn and Charlottesville. The Hassans are excited to bring their passion for coffee and community to the Williamsburg area, offering evening hours with entertainment options like trivia and karaoke nights.
In other local news, Aunt Carol’s Sauce, a beloved condiment created by Hampton native Tahjere Lewis, is now available at select Food Lion locations in the Williamsburg area. Lewis, who started selling the sauce out of his dorm room at Virginia Tech, has seen his business grow significantly in recent years. The sauce, available in mild and spicy flavors, is a hit among seafood lovers and is now sold in over 70 Food Lion stores across the region.
Additionally, Cook’s Burger Bar, a new retro-inspired restaurant operated by Against the Grain Restaurants, has opened in Midtown Row. The diner-style menu features a variety of burgers, fries, and small plates, along with an extensive bar menu. The 85-seat burger bar aims to transport customers back to classic mid-century Midwestern restaurants with its whimsical menu and nostalgic aesthetic.
With these exciting new additions to the Williamsburg dining scene, residents and visitors alike have plenty of options to explore and enjoy.