Wilmington's coffee culture is embracing a dynamic trend where coffee shops transform into bars at night, blending the craft of coffee-making with cocktail mixology. Establishments like Concorde Espresso Bar and Bespoke Coffee & Dry Goods are pioneering this concept, offering a seamless transition from daytime coffee hubs to nightlife hotspots. This trend is not only attracting a diverse crowd but also optimizing the use of space and increasing business versatility. Co-owner Jamie Alfalla of Concorde highlights the historical connection between coffee and cocktails, noting favorites like the espresso martini and incorporating cross-trained staff to enhance both their coffee and cocktail offerings. Meanwhile, Bespoke plans to expand its alcohol offerings to include a full cocktail program, further cementing the coffee-cocktail relationship.
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