Thanks to “Silver Bear” for pointing out this news. http://www.azcentral.com/community/ahwatukee/articles/1031ar-eatdrink1031.html Café Zentro: Hsiu F. Pinder took over the former Monarch Coffee location on Aug. 4 and spruced it up with cozy sofas and artwork. She used to operate a coffee shop by the same name at Washington and 48th streets in Phoenix, but light-rail construction and rising rents prompted her to move. She sells signature drinks such as a raspberry kiss and peanut butter cup as well as light fare that includes salads, wraps, croissant sandwiches, bagels and lox, and breakfast burritos. The CoffeeBuzz: Carol and Dimitri Lazarescu of Ahwatukee bought this shop in early October from Andy and Tanya Held, also of Ahwatukee, who opened it in September 2005. Andy wanted a career change; he is going to do photography and Web design. Tanya also co-owns Tilt Gallery in Phoenix and works full-time at South Mountain Community College. The Helds were on a first-name basis with many customers and hosted rotating art exhibits, many featuring area high school students. The Lazarescus, who live a mile from the shop, will continue to host art exhibits. They had been shopping for a business to buy and looked at “everything from delis to tanning salons,” Carol Lazarescu said. They figured this was a perfect fit because it blends their love of coffee and culture. Dimitri has been a violinist with the Phoenix Symphony for 25 years and plans to occasionally serenade customers.
Chris It’d be great if they took over the coffee at Symphony Hall while they were at it. Last time I mixed there the coffee was about a semi-tone flat, at best. It isn’t like they don’t have decent equipment (Pro Astras!) either, but the beans are probably ground first thing in the morning when they come in, if not what was leftover from last nights show… 0 Reply November 1, 2007
Leigh I’ve recently visited The Coffee Buzz and I love it. I love the fact they have books and books you can borrow or take for free! Their mocha is outstanding..watch out Corporate Coffee….and the breakfast burrito is really good and filling. It’s laid back, free WiFi and a super friendly atmosphere. 0 Reply January 12, 2008
