Between chasing random 911 calls, attending various community meetings and just living life, I end up wandering across most of the hill. Somehow, there’s always something I have missed. Today, while waiting for my turn in the Polyclinic cast line, I found Minervini for the first time. On Harvard between Pike and Union. “Coffee, jewelry, tea” the sign says. No reviews on Yelp. In the base of the St. John’s apartments. Been there?
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it’s never open when I try to go!! I walk by everyday.
Funny, I’ve lived right down the street for years and have never been. It’s too small for my taste. One day I saw a carbon copy of the owner talking to the owner, so he apparently has a twin, and now I’m never sure which one is the one I’m seeing.
I see this place everytime I get groceries and I always think it’s finally gone out of business …seriously, it always seems closed, but every once and awhile I see somebody in there. They need some solid business hours and to actually be open. Even when somebodies in there working it looks like they’re closing shop, or robbing the place.
The guy who is usually in there when I walk by always glares at me like if I did stop in for some espresso he’d spit in it. Usually I’m in my work outfit (black pants, button up top), so I don’t think he thinks I’m homeless.. but who knows? I’ve thought about stopping by here at least a dozen times, but I always keep walking when that same scruffy, Mediterranean-looking guy eyes me suspiciously. I’m sure I’ve given customers that same look at my job, but I work for tips so I save it for those who piss me off. Why does this guy look so angry? You’d think that since I’ve only ever seen maybe 6 different people in there ever that the employees would be a little more inviting… especially to someone like me who is on their way to the bus and could really use a cup of coffee in the early morning hours.
So this business is never open and has no customers… I’ve walked by many times and never seen anyone actually inside buying anything. Doesn’t make sense to me.
I’ve thought the same thing. I wonder how he stays in business with so few customers. I’m guessing that his dad owns the building or something.
Anyone else watch Weeds? I just started the series (yay for the public library!), so of course I instantly goes there: perhaps it’s a cover business for something that is less legal than coffee and tea. Life imitating art? Speculation sure can be entertaining.
Or perhaps he really is just a grumpy man who would rather be doing something else.
I just want to say to all those who have speculated or left negative comments, that Joseph (his name) is one of the nicest people you will ever meet. Take the time to say hi, and don’t judge a book by its cover. His business is not a cover for anything illegal. He is Italian not Mediterranean, and does have a twin brother who is equally as nice. He has been a making jewelry for many years and enjoys his coffee making, which I think is great. As far as not being there, things come up in peoples live which he does not have to explain to anyone. To those who are loyal customers, some of us which happens to know why he is not there at times.
No, he’s a great guy, the owner. His name is Joe, and he named the shop after his mom’s maiden name. He’s an artist and makes and sells jewelry there, but is usually pretty bored… so he may stare at the passer-byers. He’s one of the sweetest guys I know and is a very talented artist. his coffee is good, but the conversation is better. Go check him out!