Armando Hernandez and Nadia Holguin, owners of Tacos Chiwas and Cocina Chiwas, and James Beard Award semifinalists, have soft-opened their new venture, Aruma coffee shop, in the car-free residential community of Culdesac in Tempe. The couple, who previously experimented with a coffee concept in 2017, were drawn to the opportunity by the location's potential and its proximity to Cocina Chiwas. They partnered with former Arizona Cardinals player DeAndre Hopkins, who maintains ties to the Valley despite now playing for the Tennessee Titans. Aruma features a welcoming atmosphere with light pink tones and abundant plants, designed to complement its sister restaurant. The menu includes unique offerings like the Cochinito drink, Mazapan latte, and breakfast burritos from Cocina Chiwas. Future plans include expanding the menu and obtaining a liquor license. Aruma is currently open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a grand opening planned for fall 2024.
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