Beaufort, September 18, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort is poised for a fresh dining experience with the opening of The Olive Branch Cafe by Urban Brew + Co. on Ribaut Road, in the spot formerly occupied by Athenian Gardens. The new cafe aims to honor the legacy of its predecessor while introducing a Mediterranean-inspired menu, featuring both beloved Urban Brew favorites and new dishes. Anticipated to open by the year’s end, it will serve as a gathering place for the community, creating an inclusive environment rich in history.
Beaufort Unveils New Dining Spot: The Olive Branch Cafe
A new cafe called The Olive Branch Cafe by Urban Brew + Co. is set to open on Ribaut Road, across from Beaufort Memorial Hospital. The cafe will occupy the location of the former Athenian Gardens restaurant, which closed in 2022. Renovations are already underway by Urban Brew + Co. to transform the old restaurant space into a new, vibrant dining establishment.
The anticipated opening date for The Olive Branch Cafe is by the end of the year. Since Athenian Gardens closed, locals have shown a strong desire for a new establishment to fill the void left in the community. The former restaurant was operated by a beloved mother-son duo, fondly referred to as “Mom and Stephane,” whom the community holds in high regard.
A Flavorful Tribute
Owner Kaitlynn Vassalle has indicated that the new menu will incorporate a house-made Mediterranean twist. This approach aims to honor the memory of Athenian Gardens while introducing new flavors to the community. The Olive Branch Cafe will feature some popular items from Urban Brew’s current menu, alongside fresh, scratch-made selections inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.
Reflecting on the history of the Athenian Gardens building, Vassalle emphasized the importance of honoring its legacy and fostering an inclusive environment for all patrons. Urban Brew + Co. has already established itself as a go-to coffee shop in Beaufort Town Center, known for its trendy atmosphere and diverse breakfast options.
Menu Overview
Currently, Urban Brew offers a variety of items including coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, waffles, breakfast sandwiches, specialty toasts, oatmeal, acai bowls, yogurt parfaits, and fresh pastries. The Olive Branch Cafe plans to build on this foundation while adding unique Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Vassalle noted the vision for the cafe goes beyond just serving food and drinks; it aims to embody a heartfelt space rich in history and hope. The Olive Branch Cafe aspires to be a place where old memories can be cherished and new ones can flourish, reflecting the wishes of the community.
A Community’s Hope
As the new unveiling approaches, excitement in Beaufort is palpable. The Olive Branch Cafe is not just another coffee shop; it is envisioned as a gathering place that honors the past while looking forward to the future. Locals eagerly await the chance to once again fill the space that once served as a cherished dining spot.
FAQ
What is the new cafe being opened in Beaufort?
The Olive Branch Cafe by Urban Brew + Co. is set to open on Ribaut Road, across from Beaufort Memorial Hospital.
When is The Olive Branch Cafe anticipated to open?
The anticipated opening date for The Olive Branch Cafe is by the end of the year.
What kind of menu will The Olive Branch Cafe offer?
The new menu will include a house-made Mediterranean twist, aiming to honor the memory of Athenian Gardens.
What offerings can patrons expect from The Olive Branch Cafe?
The Olive Branch Cafe will feature some favorites from Urban Brew’s current menu as well as new, scratch-made items inspired by Mediterranean flavors.
Key Features of The Olive Branch Cafe
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cafe Name | The Olive Branch Cafe by Urban Brew + Co. |
| Location | Former Athenian Gardens on Ribaut Road, Beaufort |
| Opening Date | End of the year |
| Menu Highlights | House-made Mediterranean dishes, scratch-made items, Urban Brew favorites |
| Community Impact | Honoring the legacy of Athenian Gardens and providing a space for new memories |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Explore Beaufort SC: New Mediterranean Cafe Opening
- Wikipedia: Mediterranean Cuisine
- Explore Beaufort SC: Olive Branch Cafe Details
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Coffee
- Google Search: Beaufort Restaurant News
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
