Grand Opening of “Golden Thyme Presents” Marks New Horizons for Black Business and Art on Selby Avenue
As families hit the sidewalks for Halloween this year, “Golden Thyme Presents” will celebrate its Grand Opening with special treats for customers and an exciting vision for community.
Last month, Stephanie and Mychael Wright closed the doors to Golden Thyme Coffee & Cafe, a business they founded and operated for nearly 25 years. But they didn’t turn off the lights for good. Instead, they sold their asset to us — and we’ve transitioned the space into a business accelerator for BIPOC restaurateurs and food vendors.
On October 31, we invite YOU to the Grand Opening of “Golden Thyme Presents,” to hear more about the innovative project, take in the new art and enjoy free Halloween treats, including a free treat with purchase for the first 60 customers and a $5 off coupon on next purchase for the first 100 customers.
The buzz has already started building for the first two Black chefs taking up residence at 934 Selby. Debuting in Saint Paul after a decade of success at its flagship location in North Minneapolis, Sammy McDowell is bringing the fresh sandwiches, salads and coffee of his popular Avenue Eatery. Complementing Sammy’s weekday offerings, Jocie Thomas will serve up the rich soul food of Gravy Babies — a Rondo-based business — on the weekends.
“It’s been such a joy to see the alignment and energy as Mychael and Stephanie have turned over the space to Sammy, an entrepreneur who not only shares their passion for great food but their commitment to creating a community-centered gathering place,” said Mikeya Griffin, our Executive Director. “And it’s been a delight to welcome back community members to this next chapter of reparative development for the Selby corridor and Rondo as a whole.”
With the Grand Opening, we’ll also unveil new art on the walls of the updated space, continuing the Wrights’ legacy of featuring local artists. “Golden Thyme Presents” will not only display, amplify and make art available for sale but also integrate artist talks and other special events, as part of Rondo CLT’s new “Artists on the Move” program.
“Golden Thyme Coffee & Cafe has always been a culture-bearing business,” said E. Coco, our Deputy Director. “From the vibrant display of art on the walls to the development and growth of Selby Jazz Fest, Golden Thyme has been a platform for Black joy, creativity and expression. We’re excited to collaborate with community artists to embed arts and culture as a core component of neighborhood development.”
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