New Concept Coffee Shop & Lounge

Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts and McDonald’s don’t scare Erin Ooms and Jenn Crenshaw, proprietors of the new GlobeHopper Coffee House & Lounge, located at Main and 21st Streets, in the growing area of Tobacco Row between Shockoe Bottom and Churchill.

Erin and Jenn have created a unique venue in a once mom-and-pop industry now dominated by corporate chains. GlobeHopper serves coffee and espresso drinks, as well as a select array of fine beer, wine and liquor. Light fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner includes novelties such as a pocket breakfast, german mustard soup, toasted sandwiches and pastries like Dutch poffertjes.

“Our vision is an inclusive, comfortable atmosphere for everyone, whether you’re wearing jeans and workboots, a business suit, or even if you’re stopping by on the way back from a black-tie event,” says Erin, explaining that the relaxed environment welcoming diversity is already paying off. “We have a multicultural, intergenerational crowd. Many people get coffee to go, but plenty of folks meet with friends or just hang out and slow down, have a bite to eat and read. We like to think we’re helping to fight workaholism!”

Jenn explains that they invested a great deal of thought and effort to carry out their ideas. “We designed GlobeHopper to be a relaxing and stimulating place where coffee, culture and community intersect. We took time to hire a team of skilled baristas with diverse backgrounds who represent our ideals. We’ve chosen business partners the same way.”

GlobeHopper partners with Counter Culture Coffee of Durham, NC, which focuses on sustainable growth, environmental sensitivity and partnering with unique, diverse communities. “We choose coffees based on our commitment to sustainability from the farmer to the customer,” says Erin, who notes that quality of flavor and experience is also of the utmost importance. “We use the French Press technique, where the oils are not lost in filtration, offering a rich coffee experience. Our baristas receive regular training with coffee experts who serve as judges in national barista competitions.”

GlobeHopper is also promoting awareness of culture, from local artists to global affairs. Richmond-based artists Laine Gratz and Ed Trask have provided beautiful pieces for the property. Trask has painted a mural of Nina Simone on the GlobeHopper building. Gratz’s Celestial Globe is featured in dining area. The team consists of people who have experienced the cultures of six continents through study abroad, work exchange, and personal travel.

GlobeHopper actively seeks opportunities to partner with community-based vendors. Breadwinners, a program of New Visions, New Ventures - a nonprofit community economic development organization - and its graduates provide baked goods. The GlobeHopper Team is actively involved in community organizations and activities, including volunteering for Maymont, Junior Achievement, and local language translation services.

GlobeHopper has an indoor lounge and garden patio seating with décor inspired from cultures around the world and features live local music, poetry, and open mike performances. For more, visit us on the corner of Main & 21st Streets or go to www.globehoppercoffee.com.