We stopped in to check out Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea to see how the father-and-son team of Gregory Pope and Gregory Pope, Jr. were coming along in the Natick Center spot they opened earlier this fall. Because the Popes got going during a time of pandemic, safety has been the watchword from the get-go. The 2,000 square-foot space has multiple sanitizer stations; 6-foot distance markers; and plexiglass partitions along the bar. In addition, they’ve eliminated the condiments table to minimize frequently contacted surfaces, so all self service items such as cream are prepped by their baristas.
It’s easy to socially distance in Sweetwaters’ spacious Natick Center location.“Everyone has been really welcoming,” Pope Jr. said. “We’re glad we went ahead with the opening because we’d started all the planning long before coronavirus came along. We’ve got the safety rules in place, and we’re here and welcoming customers.”
Although Sweetwaters was ok’d for 57 seats, they’re down to 20 so as to keep social distancing standards. Customers may take a seat and relax, as many did the day we stopped in.
The chalkboard art will rotate on a monthly-ish basis. This autumnal creation is by water colorist Amy Moran.The community-minded business started out with a bang by donating $430 to the Natick Center Cultural District, which Sweetwaters raised by earmarking a portion of their grand opening proceeds to the arts group.
As for the coffee and tea, look for menu items like French Vietnamese Au Lait (dark roasted French chicory coffee and sweetened condensed milk); Crème Caramel (caramel coated vanilla latte topped with whipped cream); a collection of classic daily brews; and premium teas from Earl Grey to Dragon Pearl Jasmine. They also have pastries, bagels, filled croissants, and more.
New artists will take over the wall space on a regular basis. This month’s featured artist is Mary Erickson, whose bright water colors are all about spontaneity and joy. Erickson studied printmaking, acrylic painting and watercolor at the Danforth Art School and is a member of The Watercolor Connection in Natick.For the furry crowd, Sweetwaters offers pup cups of house-made whipped cream over a cup of ice. Dogs are allowed to come in to the shop and wait in line with their human friends. They’re just not allowed to stay if you plan on sipping and/or dining in.
BUSINESS: Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea
LOCATION: 19 S. Main St., Natick
HOURS:
Mon. – Fri.: 7am – 6pm
Sat. – Sun.: 8am – 5pm
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