Durham coffee shop to take over former Joe Van Gogh space on Duke's campus
A new coffee shop is opening up on Duke University's campus next month. Beyù Blue Coffee will take over the space vacated in May by Joe Van Gogh.
Posted — UpdatedDorian Bolden, a 2002 Duke graduate and owner of downtown Durham's Beyù Caffè, is opening Beyù Blue Coffee in Duke's Bryan Center.
"Our name, pronounced 'be-you,' reflects our desire to provide a place where everyone feels comfortable just 'being you.' We want to be the ultimate community gathering space, and I believe coffee is a great starting point to bring people together," said Bolden.
Robbie Roberts, the owner of Hillsborough-based Joe Van Gogh Coffee, cut ties with the university, days after two workers were fired when a university administrator complained about rap music at the store.
"I have decided to cut my company’s ties with Duke University. I believe it’s the right thing to do to preserve Joe Van Gogh’s brand independence without conditions," Roberts said in a statement.
As an African-American small business owner, Bolden said he hopes the entrepreneurial spirit of Beyù Blue Coffee will inspire students from all backgrounds.
"Duke is a beautiful and multicultural melting pot of people from all walks of life, and we want to welcome everyone," said Bolden.
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