Beaufort, SC, February 13, 2026
Urban Brew + Co. has opened its second location, The Olive Branch Cafe, in Beaufort, SC. This new cafe builds on the success of its original coffee shop, further supporting the local economy and honoring the legacy of the former Athenian Gardens. The Olive Branch Cafe promises to deliver fresh Mediterranean-inspired menu items while fostering community spirit and engagement.
Beaufort, SC – In a significant move for local commerce, a beloved coffee establishment is expanding its footprint, reflecting the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit thriving across the Lowcountry. Urban Brew + Co., a popular fixture in Beaufort, has officially unveiled its second location, The Olive Branch Cafe, continuing a narrative of small-business resilience and growth within the community. This expansion underscores the positive impact of local investment and the determination of entrepreneurs to serve a growing market, contributing to the broader Beaufort County economy.
The successful launch of The Olive Branch Cafe on Ribaut Road is more than just an addition to the local culinary scene; it represents a commitment to personal achievement and an inspiring example of how dedicated business owners can foster economic vitality. For residents and visitors alike, this new venture promises not only a cherished experience but also a tangible sign of progress and opportunity in the region.
A New Chapter for a Local Favorite
Urban Brew + Co. has cultivated a loyal following from its original establishment in Beaufort Town Center. Known for its dedication to fresh, ethically sourced, and environmentally sustainable products, the coffee shop has been a place of “love + acceptance,” offering a welcoming vibe where patrons can unwind from daily stresses. The menu at Urban Brew + Co. features a high-quality selection of breakfast options, complementing its extensive drink menu that includes various coffees, lattes, and cappuccinos. Guests can enjoy waffles, breakfast sandwiches on ciabatta rolls, specialty toasts, oatmeal offerings, acai bowls, yogurt parfaits, and a rotating array of fresh pastries.
The excitement surrounding the opening of The Olive Branch Cafe, Urban Brew + Co.’s second location, highlights the success achieved through a focus on quality and community engagement. Situated on Ribaut Road, directly across from Beaufort Memorial Hospital, the new cafe officially opened its doors on Tuesday, February 10th. This strategic placement allows for expanded service to a wider segment of the Beaufort County economy, including those working in healthcare and local residents in that area.
Honoring Heritage, Crafting New Experiences
The establishment of The Olive Branch Cafe carries a unique local significance, as it occupies the building that formerly housed the much-loved Athenian Gardens restaurant at 950 Ribaut Road. Athenian Gardens, which closed in 2022, left a void in the community that locals have keenly felt. Recognizing the deep affection for the previous establishment, the owners of Urban Brew + Co. undertook extensive renovations with a vision to honor its legacy while introducing a fresh concept.
The new cafe is designed to incorporate “Urban Brew favorites” while also presenting “brand fresh, scratch made new items that are inspired by Mediterranean flavors.” This innovative approach serves as a tribute to the memory of Athenian Gardens, allowing the community to rediscover a familiar location imbued with new energy and culinary creativity. The goal is to provide the “same amazing coffee and welcoming vibe” characteristic of Urban Brew + Co., but “with a twist,” creating a space where old memories are honored and new ones can be forged.
The Entrepreneurial Drive in the Lowcountry
The journey of expanding a successful local enterprise like Urban Brew + Co. into a second location exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit essential for regional economic growth. Owner Kaitlynn Vassalle described the new cafe as a “dream in the making” and a place “full of heart, history, and hope.” Such dedication and vision are cornerstones of South Carolina SC entrepreneurs, demonstrating that with personal achievement and a clear business strategy, local ventures can thrive and generate new opportunities for employment and community enrichment.
The growth of small businesses like The Olive Branch Cafe contributes significantly to job creation and economic stability. Small businesses are fundamental to the state’s economy, representing approximately 99.4% of all businesses in South Carolina. They are significant employers, accounting for about 46.2% of the state’s private-sector workforce and employing over 1.09 million workers, which is 42.8% of all private-sector jobs (State-level). This expansion in Beaufort further strengthens these vital statistics, reinforcing the role of local businesses in fostering a robust economic environment.
Fueling Lowcountry Economic Growth
The opening of new businesses and the expansion of existing ones are critical indicators of a healthy economic climate. South Carolina is recognized for its pro-business economy, making it an attractive destination for growing companies due to various statutory benefits. These include the absence of property tax, local income tax, inventory tax, and wholesale tax, coupled with a favorable corporate income tax structure (State-level). Such policies create an environment conducive to investment and expansion, which directly benefits communities like Beaufort and indirectly supports the broader Hilton Head SC business landscape.
Beaufort County actively supports economic development by attracting new businesses and aiding the expansion of existing ones. Initiatives like the Southern Carolina Landing Pad and the Beaufort Digital Corridor, which provides an incubator for startups, are instrumental in fostering innovation and enterprise. The hospitality and tourism industry also plays a substantial role in the Beaufort County economy, generating thousands of jobs and significant tax revenues for essential community services (Local). The success of establishments like The Olive Branch Cafe contributes directly to this vibrant economic ecosystem.
A Taste of Local Innovation and Community
Beyond the economic metrics, the expansion of Urban Brew + Co. into The Olive Branch Cafe enriches the fabric of the community. The focus on providing a welcoming atmosphere, along with high-quality, thoughtfully sourced products, demonstrates a commitment that extends beyond the bottom line. This approach aligns with the values of many Lowcountry residents who appreciate local businesses that prioritize both excellence and social responsibility.
This new location not only expands the culinary options available to Beaufort residents but also stands as a testament to what dedicated Hilton Head small business principles can achieve when applied with vision and community spirit. It serves as an inspiration for other South Carolina SC entrepreneurs looking to innovate and contribute to the economic prosperity of their towns.
Conclusion
The opening of The Olive Branch Cafe by Urban Brew + Co. marks an exciting moment for Beaufort, reflecting sustained entrepreneurial innovation and confidence in the local market. This expansion is a testament to the hard work and vision of local business owners, contributing to job creation, invigorating local neighborhoods, and solidifying the region’s economic strength. As this new chapter unfolds, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses and their vital role in shaping the thriving economic future of the Lowcountry.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Olive Branch Cafe and Urban Brew + Co.
Where is The Olive Branch Cafe located?
The Olive Branch Cafe is located on Ribaut Road in Beaufort, across from Beaufort Memorial Hospital, at the former Athenian Gardens restaurant building.
What kind of menu can customers expect at The Olive Branch Cafe?
Customers can expect “Urban Brew favorites” along with “brand fresh, scratch made new items that are inspired by Mediterranean flavors” at The Olive Branch Cafe.
What is the significance of the location for The Olive Branch Cafe?
The Olive Branch Cafe is situated in the building that previously housed the Athenian Gardens restaurant, aiming to honor its legacy while creating a new space.
Where is the original Urban Brew + Co. located?
The original Urban Brew + Co. is located in Beaufort Town Center in Beaufort, SC.
When did The Olive Branch Cafe officially open?
The Olive Branch Cafe officially opened its doors on Tuesday, February 10th.
What is Urban Brew + Co.’s business philosophy?
Urban Brew + Co. believes in providing fresh, ethically sourced, and environmentally sustainable products, top-quality products, excellent customer service, and enriching lives through socially conscious business choices and community outreach.
Key Features of Urban Brew + Co.’s Expansion
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Location Name | The Olive Branch Cafe |
| Original Business Name | Urban Brew + Co. |
| New Location Address | Ribaut Road, Beaufort (former Athenian Gardens building) |
| New Location Opening Date | Tuesday, February 10th |
| Original Location | Beaufort Town Center, Beaufort |
| Menu Expansion | “Urban Brew favorites” plus “brand fresh, scratch made new items that are inspired by Mediterranean flavors” |
| Community Impact | Honors legacy of former Athenian Gardens, creates new community space |
| Business Philosophy | Fresh, ethically sourced, environmentally sustainable products, community outreach |
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Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
