Pictured: Cafe Arts in the Rosemary District. Photo by Catherine O'hern.

For years, the space at the corner of Florida Avenue and Boulevard of the Arts has waited for its day in the sun. This month, that day arrived with the opening of Cafe Arts, a sophisticated yet welcoming coffee shop in the Rosemary District.

Cafe Arts, co-owned by John Schopfer and his sons, Jonah and Noah Schopfer, is the result of three years of labor to transform space, which John used to pass by while driving to church. “It was a long journey of renovating the space. We encountered many permitting and renovation hiccups, and we had to redo a lot of the interior plumbing and electrical,” Jonah says. “Things didn’t go as planned for our start, but we’re very happy that we’re here now.” The cafe, which has ample indoor and outdoor seating, is bright, airy and inviting. “People don’t realize how big the space is. We have about 50 seats inside. People walk in and can hang out in the late afternoon and enjoy a coffee and dessert or stop in for a coffee at seven on their way to work. I think our space was that inspiration for trying to become a part of the community and create a gathering spot for people to enjoy their company together,” he adds. Guests will immediately notice the captivating works, all of which are for sale, by local artist Tom Stephens that adorn the cafe’s walls and add playful colors and engaging imagery to the interior. The setting is fun yet tranquil, making it an ideal spot to visit with friends or work remotely.

Cafe Arts sources its coffee from Vecinos Coffee in Port Charlotte and sells a variety of drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. “The cold brew has been a great hit. A lot of people love it, and it's perfect for grab-and-go and your everyday worker,” adds Jonah. To eat, he recommends the savory spinach and feta croissant or the Greek yogurt and cherry Danish. No matter what guests choose to eat or drink, no doubt they’ll enjoy the welcoming atmosphere at Cafe Arts.

Cafe Arts, 1355 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota, 941-953-1049, Find on Instagram at cafeartssrq.

Pictured: Cafe Arts in the Rosemary District. Photo by Catherine O'hern.

Cafe Arts