Mnemonic Coffee is preparing to introduce its debut location in Bankers Hill. The queer-woman-owned coffee company will move into a shared spot with local barber shop, Parlor on 5th, at the 41West Condominium complex.
Co-owners Gia Giambalvo and wife Sarah Girdzius have worked in coffee for a combined 20 years and had toyed with the idea of owning their own coffee shop since their time working together at James Coffee Co. When they received a call from friend Mattie Wells at Parlor on 5th about an open space in Bankers Hill, the time finally came to put the idea for Mnemonic Coffee into action.
One of the main elements of the brand is Girdzius’ experience sourcing green coffee and building relationships with farmers, making sure the products served at Mnemonic are sourced sustainably and responsibly. Girdzius will let her coffee know-how shine developing the menu and managing wholesale accounts, while Giambalvo will handle operations and guest relations for the cafe.
“The energy we want to bring to the space is very welcoming, comfortable, and inviting. The look is 70s-basement inspired, it will have a sit and stay energy,” describes Giambalvo. Guests can expect a custom and curated experience reminiscent of your neighborhood bar.
Beyond its menu of handcrafted coffee drinks, Mnemonic will also offer a mix of teas and non-alcoholic drinks. “We’re excited to tap into zero-proof drinks. San Diego has some amazing cocktail bars but when you start looking for a non-alcoholic space to gather in, there aren’t as many options. We thought, how do we give people a spot to hang out, gather with friends, and engage with us like they would their neighborhood bartender?”
Mnemonic Coffee has launched a crowdfunding campaign through GoFundMe to build support for their new community gathering place. The brand will be hosting pop-up events as a preview of its coming menu while its Bankers Hill home is under construction. Mnemonic Coffee is expected to open in Summer 2023. Follow along for updates and pop-up event announcements via Instagram.
