How one couple’s innovative side hustle became all the buzz for kids, parents and brew lovers alike.
What do you get when you combine a power couple with invaluable skills and a passion for entrepreneurship + a novel idea combining an indoor play space for children and cafe for their parents? Meet Libby and Mark Azzarello’s Bumble Brews. A side gig-turned-unexpected success story, Bumble Brews—which serves to entertain both kiddos ages 6 months to 6 years and adults with buzzy brews (think coffee + beer and wine)—now boasts two locations in Cary and Raleigh, the latter of which opened Dec. 1.
Libby, a residential real estate agent, and Mark, a former corporate professional, embarked on this entrepreneurial journey in December 2022. “My husband always wanted to pursue entrepreneurship,” shares Libby, reflecting on the early days of their venture.
Assisted by a franchise coach who helped them fine-tune their aspirations, the couple was originally working on different ideas—until they met Bumble Brews original owners Blair and Brendan Byrnside.
“We used to take our daughter to the Cary location and loved the combination Blair dreamed up of a safe and fun place to play, but also incorporating our love for coffee and local beer,” reflects Libby. “It appealed to me for the creativity and children part, and Mark for the beer and coffee.”
Libby, self-dubbed as the “food, beverage and entertainment” connoisseur of their marriage, and Mark, the “operations and logistics”-focused half of the partnership, found their perfect match in Bumble Brews. In September, Mark took a bold step by leaving his full-time job to dedicate more time to the business. Libby continues to practice residential real estate, cleverly integrating her work into the play cafe.
“I’m excited to tie real estate into Bumble Brews, and I’ve shifted a lot of marketing to help moms and families connect with each other,” she says. “Some of our guests have asked me to be their real estate agent, so it’s been nice to see an organic growth to my full-time business.”
In addition to serving great brews and providing a fun space for kids, Bumble Brews has become a hub for community gatherings and casual coffee meetups. The full cafe is buzzing with a range of local beer, wine, cider and Champagne selects. And it’s not just for parents.
“One of our most asked questions is ‘Can I visit and purchase coffee if I don’t have a kid?’, and I always tell people, ‘Yes!’” maintains Libby. “You don’t have to be a parent to enjoy our coffee shop. The Raleigh location is positioned underneath an apartment building, so sometimes people just want to grab a coffee.”
With their joint vision, Libby and Mark Azzarello aimed to create a space that was not only female-friendly, but also a comfortable hangout for dads. “The whole industry is more female-leading because you’re working with moms, but we wanted to create a space where dads felt comfortable,” Libby explains.
Additionally, Bumble Brews’ party room offers a blank canvas for guests to curate their own theme with decorations to bring the space to life. If planning an event, guests can book the open-play area, the party room or the entire space.
Another unique feature of the Raleigh location is the consignment bookshelf where local authors can display their books. “We want to support as many local authors as we can,” says Libby.
While managing a business on top of a full-time job can be challenging, Libby attributes much of the success to their supportive network and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to leverage others’ strengths to avoid burnout.“I am surrounded by experts and people who want to help. It’s hard as a business owner, when you’re used to being independent, to lean on other people,” she shares. “But my friends told me, when I ask for specific help, I’m giving them a gift.”
Reflecting on their journey, Libby shares a candid insight: “We’re building the plane as we fly it—we’re learning as we go.” As they continue to navigate the intricacies of entrepreneurship, the Azzarellos are not just brewing up a successful business, but a community where families can connect, relax and have fun.
Giorgios Bakatsias hasn’t written his last chapter—in fact, he’s turning the page on a new one. As the ultimate gardener—cultivating places, people and literal gardens—his forthcoming Giorgios Epicurean Market expands his reach at East End Market with a morning-to-night all-in-one cafe and market, anchored by the three B’s: butcher, baker, beverage program. “We’re creating a whole village here with our wonderful [cider] friends,” says the master craftsman. “I love it.”
A “jam for the community,” jibes Bakatsias, the purposefully named space is a nod to his salad days frequenting markets in Greece to grab things for Mom. (Fun fact: Epicureanism, aka a hedonistic philosophy placing pleasure as paragon, was founded by famed Greek philosopher Epicurus.) “I just came back from Greece not long ago,” he says. “I love just getting lost in those markets… I could stay there forever.”
A feast for the eyes and senses, the space serves up a short sojourn to Europe, at once satisfying necessity and wanderlust. “What inspires me are the visuals, the aromas… the overstimulation of the senses—the market does it for me,” he muses. Filling a void beyond the big-box ops, Giorgios Epicurean Market is, in a word, curated. Period. In an age of “abundance, it’s nice to go deeper in knowledge instead of just having an extra bottle of something,” he says, and to have a more personal experience of service—not just asking, ‘Did you find everything?’… What does that mean?”
To wit, sundry handpicked goods will be on offer—from sommelier vino selects from the wine library to fresh rotating fare and expertly prepared foods (salads! sandwiches! moussaka!) to freshly baked breads (baguettes, pastries and beyond by operating partner and East End Bistrot executive chef William D’Auvray). Think even a personalized concierge at the ready to help you orchestrate the perfect meal or gift—this wine, this olive oil, this mustard, that pastry or cookie.
And, since “everything has a vibration,” says Bakatsias, for those not on the go, expect bountiful flora and fauna—not unlike the ambitious restaurateur’s Rosewater and East End Bistrot—cultivated across a massive canopy-covered piazza featuring 200+ myriad seating ops and some combination of spaces for relaxing so you can post up solo with a book or for a hang sesh with the SO or fam.
A water feature supplies serenity and heaters keep the nip at bay, while a window slide allows easy access for morning freshly squeezed juice or java giving way to afternoon or evening spirited mixology, wine or beer from the Euro-style bar. Inside, more seats abound in the cozy cafe where you can post up for a fresh snack amid the bustling market. “William makes amazing gourmet pizza,” suggests Bakatsias.
The lifeblood of the space is connectivity to ingredients—and people. An intentional gift to the community, at the heart of it all is that heartfelt hospitality. “The service culture and knowledge is just as important as the curation of product,” he says. “We can’t have everything in the world here, not because of space, but intention… so we can curate products that are meaningful and purposeful to you, and that you will enjoy with some quality and value because you know it’s important.”
Drafting another page in his book, Bakatsias still has more to come. “Creating is exciting,” says the master maker. “We don’t need just another project. What we need is to make sure we are serving the community—and in the best way we know how. … I want to write my best chapter—which I haven’t yet. You always want to continue to evolve and create.” Consider this just another brilliant “GEM” in Bakatsias’ beautiful jewel box. giorgiosgroup.com
If you’re one of those people who just can’t start their day without a cup of joe, you’re probably familiar with at least a few of Raleigh’s coffee shops. They all have their own distinctive offerings and atmospheres, and they’re to be found all over our well-caffeinated city. So, in celebration of National Coffee Day Sept. 29, grab a freshly brewed cup and see how much you know about Raleigh’s vibrant coffee scene.
1 – When did the original Cup A Joe location on Hillsborough Street open? a. 1973 b. 1980 c. 1987 d. 1991
2 – 42 & Lawrence, an espresso bar and coffee lab from Larry’s Coffee, is known for its innovative menu of coffee sodas, draft lattes and nitro cold brew. Within the black and white hued space, you’ll also find signature light fixtures adorned with what object? a. Acorns b. Coffee cups c. Hats d. Jars
3 – The Optimist, a hip coffee shop located between the Oakwood and Mordecai neighborhoods, sells a seasonal specialty drink with spiced brown sugar and features the flavor of what fruit? a. Apple b. Pear c. Orange d. Pumpkin
4 – Asian-inspired coffee shop and sake bar Heirloom Brewshop was named one of America’s best new restaurants in 2019 by what nationally known food and beverage publication? a. Bon Appétit b. Food Network c. Food & Wine d. NYT Cooking
5 – Sola Coffee Cafe in north Raleigh offers a variety of coffee, espresso drinks, smoothies and juices, along with light breakfast and lunch fare including toasts, sandwiches and salads. But what mini confections are, perhaps, Sola’s most popular menu item? a. Muffins b. Scones c. Cinnamon rolls d. Doughnuts
6 – Popular Downtown Raleigh coffee shop The Morning Times uses which local coffee roaster’s beans? a. Raleigh Coffee Company b. Larry’s Coffee c. Counter Culture Coffee d. Oak City Coffee Roasters
7 – Benelux Coffee’s menu and concept were inspired by owner Steven Halaszi’s trip to which European country? a. Sweden b. Belgium c. Denmark d. France
8 – David Benson, owner of The Third Place, a neighborhood coffee shop in Five Points, is also the artist responsible for what prominent Raleigh landmark? a. The Raleigh Acorn at Moore Square b. Sir Walter Raleigh statue at the Raleigh Convention Center c. Memorial Belltower at N.C. State campus d. Shimmer Wall at the Raleigh Convention Center
9 – The Larry’s Coffee roasting center and facility in Five Points incorporates what sustainability efforts? a. Solar water-heated floors b. Rainwater-driven restrooms c. Zone heating d. All of the above
Here’s the dish on where to fuel your daily grind, whether you’re working, studying or meeting with friends.
Happy National Coffee Month! If you’re someone who’s always looking to grab a cup of joe by any beans necessary, August is your time to shine—and it’s the perfect excuse to check out all the coffee shops we’re so blessed to have here in Raleigh. But with so many to choose from, how are you to know which one fits your vibe? Here, we take a deep dive into a few local coffee spots we love a latte.
Socializing 🤝delish drinks. “Build relationships over delicious food and quality drinks.” Because the communal space is so busy at certain times, Wi-Fi isn’t available around the clock, so bring friends, fam and/or co-workers for a chance to disconnect and convene over a cuppa. And be sure to strike a pose in front of the super ’Grammable I Believe in Raleigh mural.
Fact or fiction? Fact: The coffee from the typically quiet Texas-based spot means business, what with plenty of outlets, office phone booths for private calls and a conference room for collabs that won’t bother others. The high-end coffee pairs well with the small snacks on offer, including muffins and breakfast sandwiches featuring beloved local Michael’s English Muffins. Pro tip: The lavender latte is a must. BRB, we’re playing Lavender Hazeon repeat.
Cozy vibes serve up the perf perch for some idle time. Come for the coffee, stay for Tepuy Donuts (check out which flavors are featured online beforehand!). Post up on one of the homey couches inside—or, if it’s not too hot out, pull up a chair at the bright yellow-hued outdoor tables. Sounds brew-tiful!
It’s giving earthy elegance with no decor detail forgotten—from plush green seats to dark wood trims and bright wallpaper in the bathrooms (!), NTM greenery throughout the indoor and outdoor spaces (the back patio is a major vibe). True to its name, the locally sourced menu—complete with breakfast and lunch ops—and atmosphere will no doubt leaveyou happy. Come weekends, stick around for live music from local musicians.
“It’s the best of both worlds…” Think a large room where you can chat with friends at any volume (dropping first and last names is highly encouraged… *sips tea*) and a red room boosting the unspoken rule of being a quiet work space in this eclectic caffeine spot. WKNC (aka NC State’s radio station) is always playing funky music in the large room, adding to the unorthodox yet welcoming vibe. And if you are on the rise and grind, you can grab a brew as early as 6am. Pro tip: Try the iced vanilla trainwreck on “Wired Wednesday”—you can thank us later.
Named for the English explorer Sir Walter Raleigh (aka Raleigh’s namesake), this Downtown coffee/cocktail bar touts historically good beans and specialty coffee cocktails if you’re in need of something stronger than a regular cuppa (!). Espresso martinis, always. And don’t sleep on the food either.
From the oriental rugs to the vintage and local art to the antique pieces lining the wall, this Five Points stop is one of a kind. After browsing the colorful creations and eclectic glass lanterns hanging from the ceilings, be sure to try a macchiato with almond milk and a Salmonwich. Sounds like first place to us!
Hence the name, this Hillsborough shop gives major worldly vibes. Be sure to come with an empty stomach to fill up on the paninis, scones and other delicious baked goods. And if you’re craving an organic brew on a weekday, go early or you’ll have to compete for a seat with the flocks of NC State students who trek across the street for an in-between-class coffee.
With friendly baristas at all three locations, both indoor and outdoor seating, and a full lunch menu, this space is the optimal blend for any coffee stop, whether you’re trying to hunker down for a study sesh or chat with friends. The biscuits are a must-order—go sweet with a topping of fresh blueberry compote, or savory with egg, cheese and protein.
Is hot plain coffee the drink of summer? RM weighs in on the caffeine controversy.
Picture this: It’s one of *those* mornings and you’re in desperate need of a cup of joe to boost morale. (We’ve all been there.) But by the time you’ve ordered your iced latte with an alternate milk and added in a tip, odds are you’ve shelled out ~$8 to fuel your fix. Clearly—staying caffeinated costs.
Enter the alleged hot plain coffee trend. Per a recent Bon Appétit article, this simple sippable gem is the “drink of summer,” as it is affordable and readily available at any shop—from your local haunts to the neighborhood Starbucks—making it a potential must-have for caffeine-addicted individuals who can’t keep ballin’ out on the boujee bevs. … But is its convenience and affordability enough to dub it as the “drink of summer?” We tapped the RM team to pour over their thoughts on the hot matter at hand—and to share their fave coffee spot around town. Cool beans, indeed.
“Disagree. My go-to is Fiction Coffee—dark coffee with a splash of cream.” —Gina Stephens, Publisher, @ginasdawgs
“Depends on my mood. Sometimes, I’m feeling a little extra and need an iced latte. But if I go to Iris Coffee Lab, my favorite coffee shop, I’m getting one of their seasonal drinks. Still dreaming about their cherry mascarpone latte.” —Liz Comella, Creative Director, @liz.comella.design
“Plain? That’s a no for me. Pumpkin coffee season started this week (don’t @ me)—and you won’t find me without some kind of iced pumpkin-ated brew unless you can’t find me. Sir Walter Coffee’s pumpkin really gets your gourd.” —Melissa Howsam, Editor-in-Chief, @mahowsam
“I personally don’t really drink coffee anymore—let alone plain black coffee—but the thought of drinking any hot bev in the peak of a humid NC summer makes me sweat. I’m a chai latte girly (iced in the summer, obv, and with oak milk!), and my fave around town is at Jubala.” —Lauren Kruchten, Associate Editor, @laurenn_nicol
“Hot coffee is my arch nemesis. There could be a blizzard happening and I’d still order an iced drink. My go-to local spots are 321 Coffee or Cup A Joe—and I’m typically drinking an iced lavender latte with oat milk or an iced dirty chai!” —Anna Beth Adcock, Editorial Assistant, @_annabethadcock
“Nothing beats hot plain coffee from Cup A Joe, except maybe a cortada or latte if you’re feeling fancy.” —Heidi Reid, Editorial Intern, @heidi.laurel
“I don’t drink coffee! I will order an iced chai latte during the summer—my fave spot would be Jubala in North Hills!” —Debby Serena, Account Executive
“Hard disagree, if it tastes like coffee, I won’t drink it. I love The Morning Times Downtown, and my go-to is an iced vanilla latte. “ —Cameron Rhinehardt, Account Executive, @camrht
“Yes, I agree that hot plain coffee is the drink of summer! To me, it goes hand-in-hand with the quiet luxury trend—simple and timeless. I have always loved Jubala Coffee; the espresso and vibes are *chefs kiss.* My go-to order is a flat white, which pairs perfectly with one of the sweet biscuits!” —Kelsie Barton, Contributing Writer, @kelsie_barton
“Hell no, coffee is disgusting and such a joyless choice! The painkiller at Standard Beer & Food is the real drink of summer.” —Eric Ginsburg, Contributing Writer, @eric_ginsburg
“Hot coffee for the win! It’s the only way I like to drink it all yearlong. My go-to order is a tall soy flat white from Starbucks.” —Emily O’Brien, Contributing Writer
“Plain hot coffee is my go-to order! Unless it’s over 90 degrees, then plain iced all the way. And my go-to shop is Jubala in North Hills!” —Sean Junqueira, Contributing Photographer, @seanjunqueira
