Madis Coffee Roasters has significantly expanded its operations in Philadelphia, marking a new chapter with the opening of a second establishment in Old City. This new venture, housed within the architecturally significant Curtis Publishing building, represents a considerable step up from their initial University City cafe. The design of the approximately 4,600-square-foot space harmoniously merges Philadelphia's rich industrial heritage with the refined elegance of classic European coffee houses, creating a unique atmosphere. Featuring black steel walls and extensive floor-to-ceiling glass, the roastery is bathed in natural light, offering patrons a transparent view into the coffee production process. This commitment to an inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment underscores Madis Coffee's philosophy, as articulated by Marketing Director Eleni Navrosidis, emphasizing that a serene and clean setting is crucial for appreciating the complex flavors of specialty coffee. Detailed custom millwork and precision metalwork throughout the interior highlight the brand's dedication to craftsmanship, with a particularly innovative display of the water filtration system beneath the espresso machine, an often-overlooked yet vital component of coffee brewing.
Originating in 2022 with its first location near Drexel University, Madis Coffee's rapid growth has been propelled by strong local and student support, leading to this strategic expansion into Old City in 2024. Navrosidis characterizes the brand as both 'people-first' and 'design-forward,' noting that while each cafe possesses its own distinct ambiance—the Drexel location being intimate and warm, and the Curtis site more expansive and production-focused—both share a cohesive design language. This consistency is evident in their signature color palette of espresso brown, cream woodwork, and metal accents, all aimed at enhancing the customer experience, quality, and overall craft. Both cafes offer largely similar menus, including a wide array of gluten-free and vegan options, such as their popular 100% vegan summer drink selection featuring innovative concoctions like the Blue Zone and Blush Latte. However, the menus are also thoughtfully adapted to suit the distinct demographics of each location, with the University City cafe catering to students with convenient grab-and-go items, and the Curtis location offering a more sophisticated selection tailored to office workers, residents, and visitors to nearby cultural attractions. The roastery employs high-end equipment, including Victoria Arduino espresso machines and a Mahlkönig EK43 grinder, and sources its high-quality green coffees from reputable importers like Volcafe and Cafe Imports, alongside forging direct-trade relationships with women-led farms in Colombia. The community's positive reception to the new cafe has been overwhelmingly favorable, fostering a vibrant mix of regulars and new faces daily.
Looking ahead, Madis Coffee Roasters has ambitious plans for further expansion and community engagement. The company intends to enhance its public and private educational and training programs at the roastery, potentially accommodating increased production demands from forthcoming cafe openings. Plans are already in motion for a third cafe in Center City this fall, followed by a fourth in Northern Liberties Philadelphia by late 2025. The overarching vision is to establish a compact regional network of cafes that serve not only as coffee destinations but also as essential community hubs. Furthermore, Madis Coffee envisions developing a dedicated training laboratory to nurture aspiring baristas and empower home brewers, reinforcing their commitment to quality, education, and fostering a deeper appreciation for coffee. This strategic growth illustrates a proactive and inspiring business model that not only delivers exceptional products but also enriches the communities it serves, promoting a positive and inclusive environment for coffee enthusiasts and newcomers alike.