The former America’s Cup Room, which closed in 2008 is being converted to a full-service Dunkin’ Donuts that will be open well beyond the normal hours that the University eateries in the Union operate. The coffee shop is expected to have its grand opening the week of Dec. 20.
“The Memorial Union needs an early-morning and late-night food establishment in addition to Ronzio’s Pizza. The style and layout of this Dunkin’ Donuts is going to be something that no one has seen before and will have a very new, high-end look,” said Bruce Hamilton, director of Memorial Union/Student Involvement & Center for Student Leadership Development.
The Batista/Amaral Network, a family organization that has been in business for 22 years, will operate the franchise. The organization owns 22 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in Rhode Island, including the store in the Kingston Emporium, which will remain open.
Dunkin’ Donuts has revealed a new updated look for its franchises, allowing owners to choose from four interior designs. The designs– Original Blend, Cappuccino Blend, Dark Roast, and Jazz Brew – are all named after coffee and offer variations of the Dunkin’ theme. Each design features differences in layouts, color schemes and lighting that franchisees can choose for their stores.
The new facility will have the Jazz Brew theme, and will feature an upscale, warm environment, with comfortable, café-style seating, modern detailing, and plenty of electrical outlets for charging personal electronics.
“This is our second store located at the University of Rhode Island, and we couldn’t be more thrilled for it to open. The store will have the first ever Jazz Brew design in the area, which makes this a unique and special deal. We are creating a restaurant design that reflects our own personal tastes and preferences, that best serves our customers. We think the students of URI will love the style and enjoy coming here to have a cup of coffee with their friends,” said David Batista of The Batista/Amaral Network.
The grand opening event will feature the large coffee cup mascot, and half-price coupons will be distributed. The store will be decorated with balloons and banners, and students will get a first look at the new facility.
This press release was written by Caitlin Musselman, a URI Marketing and Communications intern, and a public relations and political science major.