Barista, David Herman poses with a latte at the counter at Unity Java | Photo credit: Studio Luminoso by Christy McMahon
Imagine indulging in your passion for mocha lattes and French pastry while supporting your community. That is what awaits you at the newly opened Unity Java, located at 5312 Ridge Avenue in Roxborough.
Unity Java is the latest in a series of social enterprise concepts launched by Roxborough residents Robert and Arielle Ashford under their umbrella nonprofit, Unity Recovery. Their businesses (Unity Taqueria, Volstead by Unity and Unity Yoga, and now Unity Java) share a common mission: to invest in the local community by providing employment for those in recovery and returning from incarceration by paying them living wage.
But it’s not Unity’s mission statement that’s drawing crowds to Unity Java – even before their grand opening on Sunday, April 8th. It’s the croissants and beignets from Au Fournil, extensive espresso and coffee list, tantalizing selection of herbal teas, Italian-style sodas served with whipped cream, and a fresh-and-healthy breakfast menu that includes vegan options. Unity Java even stocks a large selection of zero-alcohol beers, wines and whiskeys, which make thoughtful gifts when dining at the home of friends and family in recovery.
Cafe seating area for Unity Java patrons | Photo Credit: Studio Luminoso by Christy McMahon
Unity Java’s mouth-watering, unconventional menu was created by Director of Operations Trishia Vasinda in collaboration with owner Robert Ashford. “I moved here from Seattle in 2020 with 25 years of experience in food service and thirteen years in the coffee industry,” said Vasinda. “Having lost friends and family to substance abuse disorder, Unity Recovery’s mission is my passion. I started working at Unity Taqueria and worked my way up to general manager and then director of operations for all Unity eateries.”
“Having lost friends and family to substance abuse disorder, Unity Recovery’s mission is my passion. I started working at Unity Taqueria and worked my way up to general manager and then director of operations for all Unity eateries.”
Director of Operations, Trisha Vasinda prepares to use the espresso machine at Unity Java | Photo Credit: Studio Luminoso by Christy McMahon
And how did beignets get on the menu? “Both Robert and my husband are from Texas, so the menu has a Southern accent,” Vasinda explained. As for the non-alcoholic beverages, they echo the brands also offered at Volstead by Unity, the popular Manayunk vegan eatery and zero-alcohol bar.
Vasinda is especially enthusiastic about serving and selling a local brand called Working Class Coffee. “They are a social mission company based in Port Richmond and do a lot of work toward poverty relief and food insecurity. They created our unique Recovery House Blend. Each bag of Working Class Coffee sold will help support free peer recovery services for those in or seeking recovery,” she said.
“Working Class Coffee is a social mission company based in Port Richmond and do a lot of work toward poverty relief and food insecurity. They created our unique Recovery House Blend. Each bag of Working Class Coffee sold will help support free peer recovery services for those in or seeking recovery.”
A hot latte sits on the cafe' bar at Unity Java | Photo credit: Studio Luminoso by Christy McMahon
One of the most unique aspects of Unity Java is their community fridge, which offers free produce and canned goods to local residents and accepts donations. “If you grow vegetables in your garden and have more than you need this summer, keep us in mind,” said Vasinda.
Whether you are a coffee aficionado, a lover of organic teas, or just want to sink into a comfy chair and enjoy a triple chocolate biscotti while working on your resume, stop by Unity Java. Supporting your community never tasted or felt so good!
Unity Java
Website:
Phone number:
267-437-2152
Address:
5312 Ridge Ave,
Philadelphia PA 19128
Hours:
Monday - Friday, 6am - 6pm
Saturday & Sunday, 6am - 8pm