Beanscene to remain open

Beanscene Espresso, the coffee shop that been in business in Oak Park for the past 23 years, announced that it would be permanently closing Monday, July 17. However, after a couple decided to purchase the coffee shop, it will now remain open.

Between raised rent, upped prices in supply, a Starbucks in the same shopping center, and fewer customers than usual, the perfect storm hit the local coffee shop. Despite its efforts, the business found it impossible to remain afloat in the midst of all the challenges that were being sprung its way.

Upon finding out about its closing, many were devastated by what they felt was the loss of a valued place for the community.

“I immediately [thought of] the community and thought, ‘Oh, this their hub.’ This is where everyone meets, there [were] so many friendships made here. Everyone was so sad about it,” Beanscene employee Jeanna Crisafulli said.

Based on the sorrow of most regulars and Oak Park community members, it was no shock that there was widespread joy Saturday, July 29, when word got out that a couple had plans to buy the establishment and keep its doors open.

New owners Susie and Paul Blair didn’t go into purchasing Beanscene without any experience in the coffee world. The pair has owned Apollo’s Espresso and Shave Ice, a food truck that serves coffee and shaved ice at catered events, for nearly three years now.

As for their new venture in the coffee world, Susie’s husband, Paul, discovered the perfect chance for a new challenge when local newspaper, The Acorn, published a story about Beanscene’s final days.

“We’ve always wanted to open our own brick and mortar store,” Susie Blair said, “so opportunity came that day.”

Since Beanscene’s rebirth, customers have been flooding the store.

“I had been going to the ‘Bean’ for the past two to three years. When I heard it was closing, I was very upset to see this great hangout get shut down,” customer Matt Monise said. “When it was pretty much official that [Beanscene] was going to stay open, [my friends and I] rejoiced and were happy to see that our place would be around longer.”

As for the community’s response to the shift in ownership, people have been more than happy and thankful to see their go-to coffee spot saved.

“Most people have been grateful that we’ve taken it over, but we feel grateful that we have this opportunity to serve everyone,” Susie Blair said.

The new owners have drawn praise from several community members.

“The atmosphere has been super positive. The new owners are super hard working; they love being in the coffee business,” Crisafulli said.

The new owners don’t intend on changing much. According to them, their plans only go as far as integrating some of the beans they use regularly on their truck and bringing in new pastries for customers to enjoy.

“We feel truly blessed and we’re grateful to [the past owners] who really helped and made it happen for us,” Susie Blair said.