Alicia’s Coffee has officially opened its new location at the historic A.G. Gaston Motel in downtown Birmingham, marking a significant milestone for the community. The coffee shop, founded by Naimah Alicia Elmore and Rashad Harrell, is dedicated to providing ethically sourced coffee, fostering meaningful connections, and serving the local community.
Last summer, the City of Birmingham’s Historic Preservation Authority sought an operator for a new coffee shop at the newly restored A.G. Gaston Motel. On Tuesday, February 25, the Authority celebrated the grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Alicia’s Coffee, the new tenant.
“We are honored to be part of the downtown revitalization,” said co-founder Naimah Alicia Elmore. “We want to bring great service, a welcoming atmosphere, and a sense of belonging to our visitors. A coffee shop is a place where people can have open conversations, a space for healing and connection across all backgrounds.”
Founded in 2020, Alicia’s Coffee is driven by the principle that “Coffee is a connection,” aiming to serve communities with organic, responsibly sourced coffee while also engaging in acts of service.
“The city is thrilled to welcome Alicia’s Coffee to the A.G. Gaston Motel,” said a city representative. “We are grateful to the Mellon Foundation for their support in making this coffee shop a reality.”
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