A beloved Cooper-Young coffee shop that recently closed its doors will soon reopen with a fresh look and new ownership.
On Monday, August 12, 2024, Shannon Merritt, Harry Koniditsiotis, and Blake Marcum finalized a deal to purchase the property at 2170 Young Ave for $525,000. This complex includes Java Cabana, 901 Toys, and the former Loudean’s clothing shop.
Java Cabana was founded by artist Tommy Foster in 1992. Mary Burns acquired the coffee shop in 1998 and managed it until she passed away in 2019. Her family continued to run the business until its closure at the end of July.
According to The Daily Memphian, the new owners plan to renovate the space and relaunch Java Cabana with an updated menu featuring coffee, assorted drinks, and eventually beer and food. They also intend to extend the operating hours from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and host evening events.
The renovations will include upgrades to the bathroom, electrical, plumbing, and air-conditioning systems, along with cosmetic improvements throughout the space.
Additionally, the trio plans to relocate 901 Toys from its current cramped location into the former Loudean’s shop. Merritt and Koniditsiotis co-own 901 Toys, and Merritt also co-owns 901 Comics, located a few doors down.
In a Facebook post announcing the news, Koniditsiotis shared, “Like it does for many of you, Java Cabana holds a special place in my heart. It’s actually the first place I ever played in Memphis. A true epicenter of the Memphis arts, I look forward to continuing what Tommy and Mary started.”
Java Cabana will remain closed for renovations until at least mid-October 2024.
