For a few years, Espressoul Café has been serving matcha lattes, smoothies, and other unique coffee creations. Now, owner and operator Eris Movahedi, along with her life and business partner Derek South, are ready to take things to the next level.
Come spring 2025, they’ll debut the first-ever brick-and-mortar Espressoul Café location at 1525 N. Wilmot Rd.
“The new Espressoul is located in a space that holds a lot of history and heart. It used to be Zeal Patisserie, a beloved gluten-free bakery,” said Movahedi. “Sadly, they had to close their doors during the pandemic, but we’re honored to bring new life to this spot while respecting the story it holds. It’s a space filled with creativity and resilience, which aligns perfectly with Espressoul’s journey. We’re excited to build on that legacy and create a place where the community can gather and feel connected once again.”
It’s been quite a journey for Movahedi, who moved to Arizona from Chicago in 2019. With dreams of becoming a doctor, she worked four part-time jobs while attending school — one of which was as a barista at Starbucks. During her time at the coffee shop, love blossomed in more ways than one.
“Let me tell you, I didn’t just clock in and out. I fell in love with being a barista,” said Movahedi. “There was something so special about making drinks and connecting with people, even if it was just for a few minutes. And then came February 14th — Valentine’s Day. Derek pulled up to the window, and just like that, everything changed. It’s wild how life works, isn’t it? That day, I met the love of my life, and our story began.”
However, during the pandemic, Movahedi’s life “flipped upside down” when she lost her job at Starbucks. “To say I was heartbroken doesn’t even cover it,” she said.
Losing her barista job was tough for Movahedi. She became depressed and started selling anything she could at the swap meet to make ends meet. While times were difficult, they gave her a “taste of something new: freedom.” Being her own boss felt right. “I’ve never been great at taking orders anyway,” she added.
“It was during those hard times that my mom stepped in and saved me. She saw how much I loved coffee and people and said, ‘Why don’t you create something that’s yours?’ That’s when the idea for Espressoul was born. The name itself says it all… espresso for the coffee, and soul for the heart I pour into it.”
Her mom also hand-painted the entire thing — the old U-Haul truck turned mobile beverage café.
What to Expect at the Brick-and-Mortar
In Movahedi’s words, the new Espressoul Café at 1525 N. Wilmot Rd. will feel like stepping into a warm, vibrant hug. Think cozy Persian-inspired charm meets modern boho vibes. The aesthetic will blend soft, earthy tones with pops of color, inspired by her Persian roots and love for soulful connections. Expect cozy seating, subtle nods to Persian culture through art and textures, and a space that “feels like home.”
“It’s not just a shop; it’s a dream that started in the hardest moments of my life. It’s proof that when you pour your heart into something, it can turn into something beautiful. This is just the beginning.”
Like the truck, there will be plenty of hand-painted details, lush greenery, and flowers throughout the space, because “what’s Espressoul without its signature blooms?”
“I’m most excited about creating a space where our customers can truly relax and enjoy the full Espressoul experience,” said Movahedi. “It’s such an incredible feeling knowing they won’t have to hunt us down anymore. They’ll know exactly where to find us! Even better, our amazing customers will finally get to sit down, take their time, and savor their favorite drinks in a cozy, welcoming space.”
Additionally, there will be outdoor seating, offering a spot to enjoy fresh air while catching up with friends.
Movahedi and South are also thrilled to expand the menu. They plan to add a selection of in-house creations as well as collaborations with other local businesses.
“We’re also teaming up with some amazing vendors to offer even more variety because supporting our community is at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s a perfectly flaky pastry or a savory bite, we’re crafting a menu that’s just as memorable as the Espressoul experience you’ve come to love.”
Espressoul On Wheels
This isn’t the end of the mobile café! They still plan to pop up at events throughout Tucson and surrounding areas.
“We’ve worked so hard to build a sense of community, like at the University of Arizona, Di Luna Candles, Amazon warehouses, and Civano Nursery,” said Movahedi. “These spots are such an important part of Espressoul’s story, and we’re excited to keep showing up for the people who’ve supported us from the start. We’ll also be focusing more on catering and large events. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate gathering, or a celebration, we can’t wait to bring soulful sips to even more people.”
The grand opening date has yet to be set, but the new brick-and-mortar is expected to open in spring 2025.
“Knowing that we’re creating something special and inclusive for everyone just adds to the excitement,” Movahedi added. “I can’t wait to share this next chapter with all of you.”
The new Espressoul Café location will be at 1525 N. Wilmot Rd. For more information and to keep up with the grand opening, new drinks, and more, follow Espressoul Café on Instagram and Facebook.
In 2023, Eris Movahedi won the “Emerging Woman Leader of the Year” award. eWomenNetwork has been around for decades, providing “powerful, effective coaching, valuable mentorship, inspiration, and motivation.” The main goal is to provide tools for women business owners, making it easier to obtain greater success.
Article written by:
Matt Sterner
More about MattAt a very young age, Matt Sterner was gifted with the artistic ability to masterfully roll a burrito to the highest of standards, but the wrapped medley of delicious innards wasn’t his first love. Matt’s first true love was a combination of reading, writing, and creating. He grew up reading comics, the ingredients list of his shampoo and conditioner bottles, choose-your-own-adventure books, and the Scrabble dictionary — something he found useful when challenging his grandmother to a game.
He attended college at New Mexico State University and graduated with a degree in Digital Filmmaking. One of his favorite classes was screenwriting because he became responsible for the story’s birth before it came to life on-screen. After school, Matt took on numerous positions at a local television station in Tucson. From dealing out stories about heartbreak to producing “fluffier” content for a lifestyle broadcast, he learned what it takes to adapt to the many emotions the world of media can stir. Since 2017, Matt has dabbled in the culinary world of Tucson as well as San Diego, California from time to time.
If you’re in the mood for strange stories, head over to his pride and joy, wonkytimes.com. And in case you’re curious — yes, after all of this time, he still manages to roll a killer burrito.
